Discovering Sri Lanka’s Secure Swimming Beaches

Sri Lanka is an island with amazing beaches, attracting tourists who come to enjoy its watersports and tropical climate. There are several top beaches that are great for swimming. If you’re travelling with family, there’s no cause for concern. Sri Lanka has some highly safe beach destinations, which are patrolled by lifeguards. The period from November to April and May to October are the best times for a beach vacation. Here are the best beaches in Sri Lanka for swimming:

Hikkaduwa is an energetic, somewhat crowded beach, which is extremely popular among tourists and locals. Though Hikkaduwa Beach is somewhat narrow, it boasts a variety of activities. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, snorkelling, diving, and fishing, among other fun options! The waters around Sri Lanka have stunning coral reefs, and this beach offers glass-bottom boat rides that allow you to admire the marine life and coral gardens below. If you take a leisurely walk along the shore, you’ll reach Turtle Beach, where you can experience feeding wild marine turtles.

Unawatuna Beach is located in a charming coastal town on the southern coast. During Sri Lanka’s peak tourist season, this lively spot can get quite busy, so it might not be the best choice for those looking for solitude. For adventure seekers, snorkelling and diving offer a chance to explore the ocean, while those who prefer a more relaxed experience can swim along the shore or rent a boat for a fishing trip. While there is a slight risk of rip currents, the nearby coral reefs help to soften the waves. This makes Unawatuna one of the safest beaches in Sri Lanka for swimming. You can also stop at Galle, which is about an hour away, and find accommodation in hotels such as the iconic Jetwing Lighthouse, one of the best five-star hotels in the island.

Dalawella Beach is situated on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, close to Unawatuna. Visitors come to enjoy the iconic coconut tree rope swing and capture Instagram-worthy photos at ‘Ship Rock’. Even though it can be busy, Dalawella Beach is a must-visit.

Bentota is a beautiful resort town, known for its exciting water sports including windsurfing, jet skiing, kitesurfing and fun banana boat rides! For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are activities like boat safaris on the Madu River or a visit to a turtle hatchery. As a resort town, Bentota has a wonderful beach. It is known to be one of the top swimming spots in the island, especially from January to March. Bentota’s reputation as a resort destination is evident, with its selection of elegant resorts and boutique hotels such as Jetwing Saman Villas located along the beach.

Nilaveli is a charming town located in Trincomalee, on the eastern coast. The unspoiled stretch of Nilaveli Beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing! Take a speedboat to Pigeon Island or Coral Island. These spots are known to be some of the best for snorkelling and diving in Sri Lanka. It’s a great chance to explore the vibrant blue waters and witness the marine life flourishing in their natural environment. From swimming with sea turtles to observing blacktip reef sharks, there’s so much to discover!

Pasikudah Beach is ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape. This resort town on the eastern coast is lined with coral reefs that break up the waves. The waters are calm, and the shoreline allows for easy swimming. You can wade through the water for quite a distance before it reaches your waist! This sets Pasikudah apart, making it one of the safest beaches in the country, almost resembling a swimming pool. While Pasikudah is famous for its breathtaking scenery, there are also many activities you can try out, such as snorkelling and diving.

These are some of the top beaches in Sri Lanka for safe swimming. So, if you’re travelling with family, you know where to head!