White sand, crystal clear water, brilliant blue skies, and coconut palms swaying in the breeze. Catamaran boats and stilt fishermen. And fabulous, fresh seafood (including inexpensive lobster!)

The southern coast of Sri Lanka boasts hundreds of kilometers of unspoiled beaches. From Wadduwa to Hambantota, the southern coastal belt is dotted with diverse places to stay - resort hotels, rest houses, and beach shacks - offering enjoyment and relaxation.

The coral reefs of Hikkaduwa, water sports in Bentota and Beruwela, and the pristine sands of Unawatuna, rated by some as one of the 10 best beaches in the world, are major draws on Sri Lanka’s southern coast.

Popular beach areas on the western side of the island include the Mount Lavinia beach, probably the most popular beach in Colombo; Negombo, a fishing village just 15 minutes from the Bandaranaike International Airport; and Waikkal, another fishing village lying just north of Negombo, famous for its golden beach and resorts.

The less populated and more secluded beaches of Sri Lanka’s eastern coast include the windsurfing haven of Arugam Bay and Nilaveli beach with its crystal clear waters on Sri Lanka’s largest natural harbour, Trincomalee .