Best Beaches in Galle & South Coast Sri Lanka

Not one, not two ... but nine beautiful beaches are waiting to be explored on the azure waters of Tangalle, each embraced by swaying coconut palms and offering serene tropical vistas. While the azure waters may tempt you, swimming isn't recommended due to rough tides. Nonetheless, the picturesque views make for perfect Instagram moments!

This horseshoe-shaped blue lagoon was love at first sight! Beautiful and peaceful, part of the Tangalle family, Hiriketiya bustles with soft, powdery sand and tanned surfers queuing for refreshments at the café. With waves hitting the shore 10 months of the year, it's the perfect place to hire a surfboard and learn to ride the waves!

Bentota Beach, also known as Ventura locally, is nestled within the Cinnamon Bentota complex, offering a picturesque blend of sunny beach and lush mangrove forest along the Indian Ocean. Beyond its mesmerizing scenery, the resort boasts a plethora of watersports activities and convenient access to various attractions, enchanting sites, and cultural venues.

Less popular but arguably Sri Lanka’s most dazzling hidden gem on the South coast. With its glistening sapphire waters and golden sands, it offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. After a refreshing dip, unwind under a straw cabana and soak up the warm sun, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of this picturesque paradise.

Mirissa beach truly is a slice of heaven. Shaded by emerald palm trees, the beach offers a Caribbean setting enhanced by a sky-blue sea. You can choose to climb the rocky outcrops of the Parrot Rock Bridge, a red rock, or head for Coconut Hill, one of the most Instagrammable spots in all of Sri Lanka! You’ll discover this coconut farm with swaying palm trees only a 15-minute walk from Mirissa beach.

Tucked away in a secluded corner of Mirissa beach, sits Sri Lanka’s Secret beach. A secret yet not-so-secret, either way, feels like an enchanted, tropical paradise; arrive early and you might just have it all to yourself!

Unawatuna's vibrant, upbeat beach offers a little something for everyone. Spend your time snorkelling in a turquoise bay while boats dock on the shore or lounging on a sun lounger sipping a hipster-style rum cocktail. With a reputation as one of the best beaches in the country, we'll let you be the judge!

Opposite Unawatuna's main beach, venture down a path nestling in the jungle greenery and you'll come to a sparkling bay overlooking Galle Fort! Unawatuna Jungle is ideal if you want to escape the crowds of Unawatuna beach and be close to nature. There's a very relaxed atmosphere here, and you might even meet some of the locals living along the coast, with lively music and afternoon drinks!

This place oozes its own unique charm, with a palm-fringed golden beach unlike any other. Soar over azure waters on a thatched palm rope swing where the sea meets the sky. Experience this moment of pure bliss for just 500LKR. As the golden hour arrives, watch the sky painted with lavender and peachy tones, and keep an eye out for turtles gliding gracefully through the crystal-clear lagoons. For the best view, stand atop Wijaya Rock, or dive in for a closer encounter while snorkelling in the bay.

With its turquoise waters, vast stretches of golden sand and picturesque scenery, Rekawa is an incredibly picturesque beach! Among Tangalle's eight other beaches, Rekawa stands out for its peace and tranquillity, offering a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.

If you take an excursion along the coast, don't miss the magnificent turtle hatching. This spot is reputed to be a "turtle nursery", as five of the world's seven sea turtles are found here! 

Enjoy a golden hour beach excursion and consider extending your stay to discover Tangalle's charm in one of its thatched beach huts.

Weligama is a surfer's paradise, whether you're a beginner, an experienced surfer or just want to hit the waves. You'll be spoilt for choice with numerous surf schools lining the powdery white sands. On the beach at Weligama, you can snorkel, surf and relax, and nibble on good food at the oceanfront bar. Once the sun goes down, toast with your loved one under the moonlight and twinkling lights of the Ceylon Beach Bar..