The West Coast
The west coast of Sri Lanka is so much more than just its beaches. It’s a vibrant combination of local culture, serene beauty and adventure. From dolphin watching to coral reefs and the charm of traditional village life, it’s a piece of Sri Lanka that feels untouched and authentic — a perfect destination that’s worthy of your attention.
While the west coast of Sri Lanka tends to fly under the radar of many travellers, with many making a beeline for the south or the east, skipping out on this stretch of coastline will be a big mistake.
Kalpitiya Beach
Kalpitiya Beach is the kind of place that makes you want to kick back, unplug, and soak in the good vibes. Untouched by mainstream tourism, Kalpitiya Beach is perfect for everything from lazy days under the sun to splashing around in its crystal clear waters. And if you are feeling a little more adventurous, don’t worry, there are plenty of things you can do to keep yourself occupied. Here are some things you can do in Kalpitiya Beach:
Dolphin and Whale Watching: Kalpitiya isn’t just a pitstop for travellers, it’s also a major pitstop for dolphins and whales too as they migrate along the coast. From November to April, you can spot Spinner dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins and even Risso dolphins. If luck’s really on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of a sperm whale or a majestic blue whale cruising through the waters.
Snorkeling and Diving: Kalpitiya is home to Bar Reef — Sri Lanka’s largest coral reef, sprawling over 307 square kilometres. While some areas show signs of coral bleaching, this reef is still teeming with marine life including stingrays, sea turtles, octopuses and eels to name a few. With a typical visibility of 50m or more during the peak season, Kalpitiya Beach is ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Kitesurfing: Now, this is what Kalpitiya is super famous for – Kitesurfing! Whether you are a seasoned pro or a newbie, there are plenty of kitesurfing schools around to prepare you for soaring over the waves.
Bentota Beach
The Bentota Beach has become a huge hit among travellers because of its golden sands, calm waters and beauty. But, here’s the thing – that’s just scratching the surface. Bentota Beach also offers everything from ultimate relaxation to exhilarating adventures, including:
Watersports: If you are a thrill-seeker, then you are in the right place. Bentota Beach is a hub for watersports like jet skiing, windsurfing, water skiing and banana boating.
Snorkeling: Dive into Bentota’s vibrant underwater world! Its coral reefs are brimming with colorful fish and marine life, making snorkeling an absolute delight.
River Safari: Enjoy a peaceful river safari along the Bentota River past lush mangroves and tiny islands. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like exotic birds, water monitors and even the occasional crocodile.
Turtle Hatcheries: Bentota isn’t just famous for its beach and watersports. It’s also well-known for its turtle conservation efforts. With several turtle hatcheries located nearby, you stand a chance to see different species of turtles up close and if you are lucky, you might even get to release some baby turtles into the ocean.
Cultural and Historical Attractions: Art and architecture enthusiasts, rejoice! Once the favourite countryside of Sri Lanka’s renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, Bentota is home to the Lunuganga Estate, the countryside retreat he designed. It is also home to the Brief Garden designed by Bevis Bawa.
Hikkaduwa Beach
While Hikkaduwa is well-known for its nightlife, that’s not all there is to it. It’s also the OG Sri Lankan surf town with warm, clear waters and waves ranging from 4-11 feet, and a perfect mix of surf and reef breaks. Whether you are a newbie or a seasoned surfer, Hikka’s got you covered. November to March is prime time for surfing, so grab your board and get ready for some serious fun.
Not a surfer? No problem. Hikkaduwa’s underwater world is just as exciting.
Snorkeling and Diving: Dive into Hikka’s famous Coral Sanctuary, a shallow reef teeming with sea turtles and colorful fish. It’s a marine paradise that’s perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike. For the more adventurous souls, you can explore the four shipwrecks in the area, each brimming with history and marine life.
Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: If you want to admire the reefs while staying dry, you can take a glass-bottom boat ride and enjoy the show put up by the vibrant marine life underwater.
Nightlife and Beach Parties: After spending the day at the sea, you can let your hair down and have some serious fun. From daytime beach parties to late night raves, Hikka’s nightlife is one that flows as freely as the ocean breeze.
Negombo Beach
Negombo Beach might not boast postcard-perfect looks, but what it lacks in aesthetics, it makes up for in vibe. This lively stretch of coastline is bustling with activity, making it an ideal spot for a short yet memorable beach escape. Here’s why you should visit Negombo:
Adventure Awaits: With a unique atmosphere, Negombo Beach is a hub of activity, offering something for every traveller — from surfing, jet skiing or sailing for adventure junkies to romantic sunset strolls to a vibrant nightlife after dark.
A Glimpse Into Local Life: Deeply rooted in the fishing industry, Negombo is one of the best places to get a glimpse into the lives of local fishermen in action. Watch them haul in their catch of the day or visit the bustling fish markets for an authentic experience.
Seafood: Negombo is a haven for fresh, flavourful seafood. Enjoy some of the best and freshest seafood in Sri Lanka from just-caught prawns to grilled fish and sizzling crab at the local seaside restaurants.