This cluster of islands called Sri Lanka is a clear depiction of a place where all the best things in the world are concentrated in one place. One of the key ingredients of this place that makes it so significant is its beaches. The scenic beauty of the sandy shores and the blue shades of the waves will make you believe in the existence of heaven on earth. It is not only a place where tourists from all around the world visit to rejuvenate themselves. When you surf with the blue waves in Arugam-bay, feel the most colorful corals in Unawatuna, when you feel the blue waters with greenery in Pasikuda, experience the heavenly sea breeze in Nilaweli, swimming with whales in Mirissa, you will realize this is indeed a wonder of Asia.

Hiding from all the main attractions of Sri Lanka, Arugam-bay is located on the east coast of the island. With its famous reference “moon-shaped curl of soft sand” is a famous point break making it one of the best places to surf in the region. The uniqueness of this place is the range of experiences it has to offer. Whether you are a surfer who wants to take your battle with the waves or a person who wants to spend your evenings on a hammock sipping a king coconut while feeling the sea breeze in your hair, this place will treat you equally. You will see the best of this place from April to September when waves are at their peak. Even though the weather is mostly sunny throughout the year, November to March is considered the off-season where the waves are small, making it an ideal place to learn surfing.

“If you want to go to heaven, come to Galle and eat some prawns with drinking king coconut.”

This is how the late veteran cricket commentator Tony Greig simplified his thoughts on this place. The first thing you will notice upon visiting this banana-shaped beach is its golden sand and sparking water spiraling through your ankles while the lush palm trees create a barrier to protect you from the sun. Being just 90 mins away from Colombo and 15mins away from the famous UNESCO heritage site Galle Fort, Unawatuna beach was once voted “The world’s best tropical beach” by the Discovery Channel and the “Best beach in the world” by Mark Ellingham, founder of the rough guides. Not only the beach itself but also the world beneath the water will put the cherry on top. The colorful corals dancing along the waves while the most beautiful fishes teasing their every move is a scene you must see.

Situated on the Eastern seaboard of Sri Lanka, Pasikuda is considered one of the most popular beaches in the country. Derived from the meaning “green-algae-bay” this place welcomes anyone who seeks a safe place to swim. The reef that protects the bay and the shallow water creates a perfect place for families to enjoy. This horseshoe-shaped beach is also providing a perfect view for sunset lovers. Looking at the deep blue sea with a pinch of lush greenery here and there, slowly fading into the night creating unimaginable patterns in the sky will paint a picture you will never forget. The best time to visit this heavenly place is between July and August when the weather is more favorable. However, from November to February it is expected to have more rainfall with strong currents compared to other months.

Untouched blue water, pearly sands, lush greenery, and a breathtaking coastline pretty much sum up this magnificent beach. Situated a few kilometers away from the Trincomalee district, Nilaweli is home to one of the best places to experience colorful marine life. Pigeon island, a small island away from the beach is home to some of the most beautiful corals, sharks, and turtles where you can get the unique experience of swimming with them. There are a lot of people who will take you to this place providing you with all the gear to make it more memorable. Just like any other coast, the nights tend to get cold to prepare the surrounding for the warm weather during the daytime. However, November to May can be considered the best months to visit Nilaveli.

Great sunset spots, beautiful beaches, animal sanctuaries, and endless photo frames are just a glimpse of this incredible place. Lying at the heart of Sri Lanka’s South coast, Mirissa is another popular destination among tourists. The first thing that would pop up when you search for mirissa is a small hill that goes by the name “Coconut tree hill”. Green palm trees with just a hint of brown color sprouting up from the reddish earth create a picturesque view that you would cherish forever. The not-so-secret “Secret beach” is another beach where you can do snorkeling with plenty of turtles while another part of this beach is a waist-deep lagoon which is protected by a rocky outcrop making it calm even when the sea gets rough. Mirissa is also popular as a place, on shore you can watch the baby turtles embarking on their first journey to the water while in the sea you can see different types of whales such as blue whales, Humpback whales, and Sperm whales from December to April.