The picturesque Sri Lanka island attracts many travelers with its exoticism. This country is worth a visit: the coastline of the island stretches for many kilometers; coconut palms line the beaches. But not every beach is suitable for swimming, in some places it’s simply dangerous to go into the water.
Here is the detailed travel guide for first timers on best beaches in Sri Lanka without waves and safe for swimming, so you can enjoy your holidays, especially with children.
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Sri Lanka Beaches General Information
Those, who visit Sri Lanka for the first time, are often surprised: why are there practically no beaches without waves? You can hear the roar of the waves almost everywhere, even on the best beach resorts in Sri Lanka.
All this, thanks to the waters of Indian Ocean, that carefully washing the island from all sides. The strongest waves are typical for the southwestern beaches of the island. Waveless beaches in Sri Lanka are usually hidden in cozy lagoons or small bays where the waters are relatively calm.
It is worth remember that there are no white beaches on the island. The color of the sand is mostly golden or “coffee with milk” shades.
1. Weligama
It is considered a relatively calm beach, interesting both for a relaxing holiday and active pastime – diving, snorkeling. There is a coral reef with abundance of marine life, it makes this place very attractive for those who would like to snorkel.
The length of the coastline is about 3 km. Although Weligama is one of the calm Sri Lanka beaches, there are still waves. The quieter part of the beach is the western one. This beach is considered one of the most popular among visitors.
Weligama Beach is one of the perfect places to enjoy surfing, right on the beach you can take private or group lessons, rent necessary equipment. The sand is quite soft there.
The depth does not start immediately, in some places the sand is mixed with clay, so step carefully. If you really want to swim, choose the western part of the beach, where the waves are not so big.
Cafes, mostly with traditional Sri Lankan food and bars are located along the beach, and offer sun loungers for rent. There are shops and ATMs located nearby.
To enjoy swimming at Weligama Beach, it is best to come from January to April. From July to October, you can also enjoy a beach holiday, but the weather becomes changeable and rains can spoil the holiday.
2. Mirissa Beach
Even though Weligama tops the rankings of the best Sri Lanka beaches, many tourists prefer to relax on the nearby coast called Mirissa.
It consists of three lagoons, separated from each other by a small stone cliff. The largest of the lagoons is located in the west of the cliff, two smaller ones are in the eastern part. The length of the coastline is about 2 km; the width of the beach ranges from 15 to 40 m, it depends on the phase of the moon and the season; but there is enough space for everyone.
The shores of the lagoons are covered with a soft golden sand, mixed with black volcanic.
The best beach for swimming is the lagoon located to the east of the other two. Sometimes it is called “secret beach”. Swimming is possible there at any time. The lagoon is reliably protected by an underwater reef and boulders. But it is worth noting that you should avoid area near the rocks as there many sea urchins live near the boulders. In addition to that, ocean currents are stronger there.
The western part of Mirissa beach is great for surfing. There are always waves, but they are not too high. In general, Mirissa beach is surrounded by palm trees, in the evening you can watch the most beautiful sunsets here. This beach is not yet so popular among tourists, so it is ideal for secluded and relaxed holiday.
As for the beach infrastructure, here you can find almost everything for a comfortable stay. Umbrellas, deck chairs, equipment rental for surfing, diving. You can eat in one of the cafes located here, not far from the beach.
Trincomalee beaches
Trincomalee or Trinco is a resort town located in the east of the island. There are many small coves along the beachline that protect vacationers from the wind. There are two of the most popular Trincomalee beaches. They are located approximately 12 km from the city itself.
These are the coasts of Nilaveli and Uppuveli, one of the quietest and most peaceful beaches in Sri Lanka.
It is worth to remember that Nilaveli and Uppuveli are small villages, so you will not find big shops or markets there. Yes, you can buy lemonade or a snack in small shops not far from the beach, but don’t expect too much. To save money, it is better to buy products in Trinco in advance.
3. Uppuveli Beach
It is a perfect place to know more about local life. Diving and snorkeling are the best water activities you can enjoy. Compared to other beaches in Sri Lanka, Uppuveli can be called almost empty, there are few vacationers.
The sand on Uppuveli Beach is quite soft, water entrance is smooth, but be careful, as it can be deep at a slight distance from the beach. There are almost no waves on Uppuveli Beach in Sri Lanka, that’s why this beach is so attractive for families with kids.
There are no waves firstly because the beach itself is located in a bay, and secondly, there is a coral reef that protects it from waves. Best time to visit this beach is the period from March to August.
4. Nilaveli
This beach is located 15 km from Trincomalee. The sand along the entire coastline is fine, it is pleasant to walk on it with bare feet. The water is clear, entrance is smooth, there are no sharp stones or algae. Not far from the beach is Pigeon Island – one of national parks in Sri Lanka.
Make sure to take a mask, so you can observe the diversity of the underwater world. In the warm waters of the ocean, you can find colorful fish, turtles and reef sharks.
Nilaveli Beach is not very popular among tourists, so the infrastructure is not developed there. The beach is surrounded by thickets of palm trees, where monkeys and lemurs live.
The most popular and delicious dishes are in local seafood restaurants. Since the village is inhabited mainly by fishermen, the fish and seafood here are always fresh, and the prices are adequate.
Kalutara
One of the cleanest beaches in Sri Lanka. Regardless of the season, there almost always huge waves there. The sand on Kalutara Beach has a pleasant yellow tint. The sparseness of the coast allows you to feel like on a lost island.
Beaches in the South of Sri Lanka
If you have chosen the southern part of the island for your vacation in Sri Lanka, then you can visit one of the most popular beaches – Unawatuna. Another pretty nice beach, yet not too built up – Koggala. Ahangama and Midigama beaches are very popular among surfers.
Beaches where you can see turtles
Since ancient times, Sri Lanka has been famous for its turtle farms. If you’re looking for the best beaches where you can swim with turtles, go ahead to Hikkaduwa. It’s one of the places, where you can meet these marine creatures during all the day. But it is better to come here early in the morning.
Galle Beach
Galle is a place that is also included in the list of must-sees in Sri Lanka. It has many attractions, but the beaches in Galle are not recommended for swimming. Do not believe those who convince you otherwise: the nearest worthy beaches are located in Unawatuna. You can get there by bus in 20 minutes.
