Our Top 4 Must Do Beach Activities in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a world class beach destination. Pristine beaches run for miles and miles as far as the eye can see. Surround yourself in the gentle sound of the waves kissing the shore and amazing vistas.

If you’re hoping to visit Sri Lanka, heading to the beach for a day of fun and relaxation should be on your list. The beauty of visiting a diverse tropical paradise like Sri Lanka is that you won’t just be limited to spending your holiday lazing by the beach. The beach destinations in the country are known for so much more than just a beautiful backdrop. From snorkeling and surfing to whale and dolphin watching, there is much to see and do.

Here’s our list of 4 beach destination in Sri Lanka where you can do more than just lay on the beach.

1. Whale watching at Trincomalee.

Sri Lanka is considered to be one of the top notch destinations for spotting the largest mammals on earth, blue whales and sperm whales. Apart from other spectacular sites Trincomalee has to offer such as hot water springs and beautiful unspoiled beaches, during the months of July to September the east coast of Sri Lanka is popular for its sighting of whales.

Set off on a boat to witness these magnificent creatures up close and personal, a once in a life time opportunity that we highly recommend you add to your ‘to do’ list.

2. Snorkeling in pigeon islands Trincomalee

Pigeon Island is a wild life sanctuary situated in the north-east of Sri Lanka. It is a beautiful place to spend a day of snorkeling and hiking. We recommend visiting this island early in the morning to enjoy the seclusion and the beauty the island has to offer.

Dive into the cool clear water surrounding this little island and be transported your own little underwater paradise, occupied by tropical fish and gorgeous coral. If snorkeling isn’t your thing, the beach offers the perfect environment for you to relax with unmatched vistas of surrounding ocean.

3. Arugambay Surfing

Situated in the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, Arugambay is an international surfing competition venue. The majestic waves create an exhilarating rush and during the season of April to October surfers from around the world gather at Arugambay show off their skills.

If surfing is your thing we highly recommend you visit Arugambay and maybe even take part in a competition or two. The many surfing school’s nearby also offer lessons for beginners who are interested in taking up surfing, wind surfing and kite surfing.

4. Kalpitiya Dolphin and whale watching

During the months of November to April, Kalpitiya comes alive as large pods of dolphins, especially spinner dolphins can be found swimming around Kalpitiya. They are most often sighted parallel to the Kalpitiya peninsula. Because of the massive dolphin sighting the beach is known as the Dolphin beach and the area in-shore off the reef is known as the Dolphin line.

If Trincomalee is out of your reach, not to worry, Kalpitiya is also famous for its sighting of whales.