Best Beaches in Southern Sri Lanka: Surfing, Sunbathing, and Secret Spots

AsiaSouth AsiaSri LankaSouth Sri LankaWeligamaMirissaHiriketiyaGalleDickwellaAhangamaUnawatuna
Written By Gina Cincotta
A view over Mirissa Beach in South Sri Lanka.

Welcome to the South Coast of Sri Lanka!

After spending nearly two months wandering Sri Lanka’s southern coast, I can safely say these beaches are something else. From gentle surf waves and soft sand for soaking up the sun, to little hidden coves that feel like your own private paradise, this coast has something for every beachgoer. No matter what kind of beach day you are hoping for, you are going to find your ideal spot here.

Ready to find your perfect stretch of sand? Here are the best southern beaches in Sri Lanka that you will fall in love with.

Oh & as always practice sustainable tourism while traveling, please :) This includes avoiding feeding wild animals and marine animals such as sea turtles.

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Best Beaches in Southern Sri Lanka

 
Jungle Beach near Weligama Beach in south Sri Lanka.
 

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Table of Contents

Why You Will Fall in Love with These Southern Sri Lanka Beaches

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka’s Southcoast Beaches

The Best Beaches in Southern Sri Lanka

Map of Sri Lanka’s Best Southern Beaches

Sri Lanka Beach Travel Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

Why You Will Fall in Love with These Southern Sri Lanka Beaches

A surf rack filled with boards for every level of surfer on Weligama Beach in Sri Lanka.

The beaches along the south coast of Sri Lanka offer a bit of everything for every type of traveler. From surf waves for all levels, soft white sand for curling up, to crystal-clear blue-green waters perfect for floating away your troubles in. The beaches have the best of everything down here. You can wander tiny hidden coves, watch stilt fishermen at work, catch an epic sunset, or just relax with a fresh coconut in hand. Every beach has its own vibe. Some are lively and social, others are calm and almost private. It is hard not to fall in love with a coastline that has it all.


Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka’s Southcoast Beaches

The best time to visit the beaches of Sri Lanka’s south coast is during the dry season from December until April. Nobody wants a rainy beach day, especially if you are hoping to sunbathe. Surfing is best from November until April, depending on your surf level. I found January and February to be perfect for smaller waves for beginners, with some days still getting large enough to be more challenging for intermediate surfers. Of course swell will change yearly and daily depending on the weather, wind, etc. So always be sure to keep an eye on a weather app.

December to January/February is typically peak tourist season, which means it can be busier. March and April will be just a bit quieter.

The monsoon season, on the other hand, varies year to year, and even locals were telling me how the years have been rainier and vary more as time goes on. Historically, it runs from May until September. However, the monsoon season can bring choppier waters, which sometimes is best for more challenging surf.

The Best Beaches in Southern Sri Lanka

(In no particular order…)

#1: Weligama Beach

Surfers in Weligama Bay.
Some surfers in the water at Weligama Beach.

A view of the surfers at Weligama Beach in Sri Lanka.

Weligama Beach is a long stretch of soft sand famous for its beginner-friendly surf waves, making it one of the best spots in southern Sri Lanka to learn how to surf. The gentle rolling waves attract both novices and seasoned longboarders, while the laid-back vibe draws backpackers and travelers looking to hang out, meet people, and enjoy the beach life. While the water isn’t the clearest or most picture-perfect, the surf schools and relaxed atmosphere make Weligama a must-visit for anyone wanting a classic Sri Lankan beach experience.

WELIGAMA BEACH TIPS:

Best Places to Eat:

  • Maru (vegan & gluten-free options)

  • Dulnetha (Weligama—Sri Lanka Food)

  • The Natural Earth (Weligama—vegan options)

  • There are many restaurants, small shacks, and beverage stands available along the beach.

Best Places to Stay:

I recommend booking accommodation right along the beach. If you do not mind a short walk, you can stay along the river like I did.

Shady Areas / Lounge Options: Many surf schools or beach shacks offer lounge chairs and umbrellas if you purchase food or drinks.

Crowd Level: Busy, but the shoreline is over a mile long, leaving plenty of space.

Want the full lowdown on Weligama, where to eat, where to stay, and more? Check it out here!

#2: Hiriketiya Beach

A view of Hiriketiya Beach on Sri Lanka’s south coast. One of the best spots!

A view of Hiriketiya Beach on Sri Lanka’s south coast. One of the best spots!

Hiriketiya Beach is a cute, cove-like spot that feels like the perfect little slice of beach life in southern Sri Lanka. The water comes right up to the restaurants and lounge chairs, so you can sip a fresh coconut while dipping your toes in the waves. The bay is popular with surfers of all levels, offering gentle rolling waves for beginners and a few faster breaks for when you are ready to take your skills up a notch. Surf schools and rental spots line the beach, making it easy to grab a board or book a lesson.

HIRIKETIYA BEACH TIPS:

Best Places to Eat:

Best Places to Stay:

I recommend staying right in Hiriketiya.

Shady Areas / Lounge Options: There are lounge chairs in the shade lining the beach; however, there is usually some sort of food or beverage minimum you need to meet to lie on them.

Crowd Level: The beach gets busy fast, thanks to the popular food spots and accommodations right across from the sand.

Want the full lowdown on Hiriketiya, where to eat, where to stay, and more? Check it out here!

#3: DiCkwella Beach

 
A view of Dikwella or Dickwella Beach, a longer stretch of sand near Hiriketiya Beach in South Sri Lanka.

A view of Dikwella or Dickwella Beach— a longer stretch of sand near Hiriketiya Beach in South Sri Lanka.

 

Dickwella Beach is the better spot if you prefer fewer surfers and more sand for hopping on a lounge chair or spreading out your own towel. The swimming is perfect here, probably some of my favorites in southern Sri Lanka. This long stretch of sand is dotted with lounge chairs, restaurants, and even volleyball nets, giving you plenty of options to hang out and enjoy the beach.

Dickwella is ideal for anyone who wants a calm ocean, a longer stretch of soft sand, and a more relaxed vibe away from the busier surf spots.

DICKWELLA BEACH TIPS:

Best Places to Eat:

Best Places to Stay:

I recommend staying right in Hiriketiya, a short 10-15 minute walk away from the beach.

Shady Areas / Lounge Options: Restaurants and cafes have lounge chairs with umbrellas lining the beach. However, if you plan to spread your own towel out, there is not much natural shade to hide under.

Crowd Level: The beach had quite a few people on it when I visited; however, it is such a long beach, so it did not feel busy at all. Hiriketiya Beach was much busier in comparison.

Want the full lowdown on the area, including where to eat, where to stay, and more? Check it out here!

#4: Mirissa Beach

A view from Parrot rock over Mirissa Beach.

A view from Parrot rock over Mirissa Beach. This is one of my favorite beaches in the south of Sri Lanka.

Mirissa Beach is by far one of the most beautiful beaches on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, and can therefore be a bit more crowded. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and enjoying views from Parrot Rock. Tall, flourishing palms stretch along the entire beach, gently blowing in the breeze and adding to the tropical charm. The water here is some of the clearest, shifting from green to blue to crystal clear. Along the soft yellow sand, shops, hotels, and food stalls offer lounge chairs, while the beach itself is soft and comfortable enough for your towel. For a quieter vibe, head to the far west end (opposite Parrot Rock), to a cozy cove framed by swaying palm trees.

MIRISSA BEACH TIPS:

Best Places to Eat:

All have vegan & gluten-free options

Best Places to Stay:

I recommend booking an accommodation along the coast near Mirissa Beach.

Shady Areas / Lounge Options: Tall palm trees line the beach, providing natural shade. Many restaurants and hotels offer lounge chairs for visitors who purchase food or drinks.

Crowd Level: Can get quite crowded, especially on sunny days— I recommend heading here early in the morning to lock in a good sunbathing spot.

Pro Tip: Parrot Rock offers an amazing view (see the photo above) of Mirissa Beach’s incredible beauty, and the popular Coconut Tree Hill can be seen in the opposite direction. Locals mentioned you could snorkel at the beach, but I did not try it myself.

Want the full lowdown on how to reach Mirissa, where to stay, and more? Check it out here!

#5: Niyana Wella Beach

 
Niyana Wella Beach in Mirissa, on the south coast of Sri Lanka

Niyana Wella Beach, Sri Lanka.

 

Niyana Wella, near Mirissa in southern Sri Lanka, is a secluded beach that feels completely untouched. When I visited, there were only two people on the entire stretch of sand. The beach is framed by a tall cliff covered in swaying palm trees, with very minimal infrastructure. To reach it, you walk through a short stretch of jungle, but it is not difficult (just remember to bring mosquito spray). Beyond the soft yellow sand, there are a few rocky outcrops full of crabs and clear water for swimming, but little else, making it a perfect spot to enjoy peace and solitude.

NIYANA WELLA BEACH TIPS:

Best Places to Eat:

All have vegan & gluten-free options

Best Places to Stay:

Niyana Wella Beach is best visited from Mirissa, Sri Lanka.

Shady Areas / Lounge Options: Minimal, aside from a few bushes and palm trees. No amenities on the beach.

Crowd Level: Secluded paradise.

Pro Tip: Watch for sea urchins in the rocks!

#6: Dalawella Beach

A view of Dalawella Beach near Weligama Sri Lanka.

Dalawella Beach

A view of Frog Rock at Dalawella Beach Sri Lanka.

Frog Rock, Sri Lanka.

Dalawella Beach is a peaceful stretch of golden sand with hardly anyone around. The water can be a bit rocky when entering, but the beach itself is perfect for lounging with your towel. There is not much shade or food nearby, so be sure to come prepared. A unique rock formation, Frog Rock, separates a quieter side from a more touristy area. If you are facing the water, the left side of Frog Rock offers seclusion, while the right side is where one of the famous rope swings is located. The beach also provides incredible sunset views, especially from Frog Rock or the nearby palm tree swing.

Dalawella is home to a turtle population, so you may spot them in the clear waters, but remember to never touch or feed them, as it can disturb their natural behavior and migration.

DALAWELLA BEACH TIPS:

Best Places to Eat:

All have vegan & gluten-free options

Best Places to Stay:

I suggest staying in Unawatuna, a 5-minute drive or a 30-minute walk from the beach.

Shady Areas / Lounge Options:

  • Some areas are naturally shaded by leaning palm trees.

  • Wijaya Beach Restaurant has sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.

  • Limited food stalls are directly on the beach, aside from Wijaya Beach Restaurant. Pack water, snacks, and sun protection.

Crowd Level: Aside from the turtle feeding and rope swing, this beach is still less crowded compared to nearby beaches like Unawatuna.

#7: Thalpe Beach

 
Thalpe Natural Pools near Weligama Sri Lanka.

Thalpe Natural Pools.

 

Thalpe Beach is a unique spot known for its natural rock pools that fill with the tide. These pools are perfect for cooling off without getting tossed around by waves. The beach is best visited at mid or low tide, as the pools are more accessible then. It is not ideal for swimming in the open water, and the natural pools can get busy during peak hours. If you prefer somewhere less crowded and more suitable for swimming, you can head further down the coast (away from Unawatuna) for some more swimmable sections.

THALPE BEACH TIPS:

Best Places to Eat: (all vegan & gluten-free options)

Best Places to Stay:

I suggest staying in Unawatuna, a 5-minute drive or a 30-minute walk from the beach.

Shady Areas / Lounge Options: There is limited shade directly on the beach, so I suggest bringing an umbrella and a towel. I believe I remember one food stall while I was there, so come prepared.

Crowd Level: The natural pools attract many visitors, so this area can get busy, especially at mid or low tide. Outside of the pools offers more space and fewer people.

#9: Koggala (To Habaraduwa) Beach

A view of the long stretch of sand at Koggala Beach near Habaraduwa, Sri Lanka.

A view of the long stretch of sand at Koggala Beach near Habaraduwa, Sri Lanka.

Koggala and Habaraduwa Beaches are peaceful stretches of golden sand along Sri Lanka’s southern coast. They are perfect for taking long, uninterrupted walks along the shoreline, watching the iconic stilt fishermen doing their thing, or just spreading out your beach towel and enjoying the relaxed vibes. The water is clear and ideal for swimming, being much quieter than the more famous spots nearby. If you want a more ethical turtle experience, check out the Sea Turtle Hatchery in Habaraduwa to learn about these amazing creatures without disturbing them.

BEACH TIPS:

Best Places to Eat: (Ahangama)

All have vegan & gluten-free options

Best Places to Stay:

I suggest staying in Ahangama, a popular digital nomad and surfer spot. It is around 10-15 minutes from the beaches.

Shady Areas / Lounge Options: There are some scattered palm trees throughout the beach for natural shade, but most of the beach is open sun. Bring an umbrella or a towel if you want to lie on the sand out of the sun. Some small beachside cafes and guesthouses may have lounge chairs for guests, but I do not remember seeing any.

Crowd Level: The beaches felt wide open and spacious while I was there. I believe I saw a total of 10 other people (I was here in Jan./Feb.)

#9: Mihiripenna Beach

The right side of Mihiripenna Beach in South Sri Lanka.

The right side of Mihiripenna Beach in South Sri Lanka.

The left side, near the Radison, of Mihiripenna Beach in South Sri Lanka.

The left side of Mihiripenna Beach in South Sri Lanka.

Mihiripenna Beach is a quiet stretch of soft golden sand, ideal for sunbathing and relaxing in a calm, peaceful setting. The beach is slightly less rocky than Dalawella, which makes it easier for swimming. If you are lucky, you might even spot sea turtles here, especially in the shallows, but it is very important not to touch or feed them. Mihiripenna is still very laid-back and has not been overrun with crowds, so it is a great place to unwind if you are looking for something low-key and untouched.

MIHIRIPENNA BEACH TIPS:

Best Places to Eat:

All have vegan & gluten-free options

Best Places to Stay:

I suggest staying in Unawatuna, a 10-minute drive from Mihiripenna Beach, so you are still close to plenty of cafes and restaurants.

Shady Areas / Lounge Options: Limited natural shade, so bring an umbrella or hat if you plan to stay long. Pack some lunch and waters as well.

Crowd Level: Generally quiet compared to the more famous beaches nearby.

#10: Jungle Beach (Unawatuna)

The picturesque Jungle Beach, near Unawatuna on the south coast of Sri Lanka.

The picturesque Jungle Beach, near Unawatuna, on the south coast of Sri Lanka.

Jungle Beach is a tiny, tucked-away cove that you have to trek a bit to reach, but it is SO worth it. The water is a beautiful mix of blue and green hues, perfect for swimming. There is a small restaurant at the bottom, and boat tours leave from here (not sure where they go). The second half of the beach has some trash piled at the back, but the beach itself is still really beautiful and peaceful. Japanese Peace Pagoda sits uphill on the way to Jungle Beach and is a lovely little stop-off. It is shaded in many areas, making the climb more comfortable, and the views over the coastline are stunning, perfect for a quick pause before relaxing on the sand.

JUNGLE BEACH TIPS:

Best Places to Eat:

All have vegan & gluten-free options (Unawatuna)

Best Places to Stay:

I suggest staying in Unawatuna, so you are still close to plenty of cafes and restaurants.

Shady Areas / Lounge Options: Plenty of natural shade, and there are some lounge chairs available to rent.

Crowd Level: Pretty busy. I would avoid weekends when it gets busiest.

Bonus Beaches: A Few West of Weligama You Should Not Miss

Mirissa’s Secret Beach is really no secret. It is a small cove surrounded by rocks, offering a calm, shallow pool of water ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Lounge chairs line the sandy cove, available from a small restaurant tucked back in the jungle— but they fill up fast. Soft house music plays here (sometimes a bit loud), so this is not your secluded secret beach but more of a place to lounge and vibe.

Ahangama Beach and its nearby coastline are ideal for surfers and travelers looking for less commercialized stretches of coast, though it is definitely becoming more developed every day. This area offers a variety of beaches to explore, from surf-heavy Midigama Beach to quieter spots like Wild Beach and the sandy stretch across from Devil’s Rock. Head further inland from Ahangama, you will find rice fields and AnimalSOS— an organization trying to save the strays of Sri Lanka.

Coconut Beach, near Weligama, is a great spot for surfers chasing bigger waves, for swimming (depending on the tides), and for enjoying long stretches of soft sand with fewer amenities. It is also one of the best places to catch a glimpse of the iconic stilt fishermen and a sunset! This beach is much quieter, with less infrastructure, which usually means fewer people around.

Tangalle Beach is still on my list for next time, but I have heard SO many great things, which is why I am including it on my list. It is a long, peaceful stretch of golden sand with calm, clear water perfect for swimming or just lounging. I have heard the beach is quieter than many of the more popular spots in the south, so it feels like a real escape. Palm trees line parts of the sand, giving shady spots to chill, and the nearby town offers delicious fresh seafood. From what I have read, it is a perfect mix of relaxation, swimming, and pretty walks along a wide, soft-sand coastline.

Map of Sri Lanka’s Best Southern Beaches

Click the map to expand the view of the best beaches in southern Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Beach Travel Tips

  • Hit the beach early or late to avoid crowds and beat the heat. The earlier you arrive, the more likely you are to rent the perfect lounge chair.

  • Bring cash (Sri Lankan Rupee) for coconuts, beach chairs, surfboards, surf lessons, etc. The best ATM is the Bank of Ceylon.

  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses — the sun gets strong here, and not all beaches offer shaded areas.

  • Carry an umbrella or rain jacket—Don’t let the weather app fool you, it did rain a lot when I was in Sri Lanka in January/February.

  • Stay hydrated—grab a fresh coconut or carry water with you. DO NOT drink the tap water.

  • Be cool with the locals and other surfers. Give everyone plenty of space in the water and do not drop in on other surfers— not cool.

  • Respect the wildlife. Some beaches are home to nesting sea turtles, so do not touch the nests or the turtles themselves. And even if other tourists are feeding them, do not do it—it is unethical and messes with their natural habits, including migration and feeding patterns. Just enjoy watching them from a distance or go for a snorkel if you want to get a close-up look.

  • Give back by picking up small bits of trash and cleaning up after yourself. I recommend bringing a small bag for trash, as some beaches lack bins.

  • Check the tides before swimming or surfing—some spots change a lot.

  • Rent boards and gear from the beach — surf schools make it easy.

  • Swim safely. There are not always lifeguards, so stick close to others and watch for currents.

  • Download an eSIM to help navigate the buses. I always use Airalo for my eSims.

  • Pack mosquito repellent to protect yourself from Dengue. Mosquitos are everywhere in Sri Lanka— I constantly had so many bites every day.

  • Be careful with the street dogs. Most are kind and well-fed in touristy areas, but rabies does exist in the country (in more animals than just dogs). I highly recommend getting the rabies vaccination before traveling. The disease is fatal.

  • Mistakes can happen, especially when surfing, so I recommend always having some form of travel medical insurance. Safety Wing is by far the best travel medical insurance. It has saved me numerous times by covering hospital visits when I was sick during my travels in Asia.

  • Emergency Contact Number: Police: 119 | Ambulance: 110

    • You can find a complete list of Sri Lanka’s Emergency #’s by location here.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which part of Sri Lanka has the best beaches?

  • The southern coast of Sri Lanka is known to have some of the best beaches. Stretching from Unawatuna to Hiriketiya. This is because of the surf, variety of beaches, landscapes, and crystal clear waters.

Where to go in southern Sri Lanka for beaches?

  • I recommend hitting all of the spots you can on my list of the best beaches in South Sri Lanka, but if you only want to head to one spot, I recommend Unawatuna. From there, you can still easily access all of the beaches from Jungle Beach to Mirissa.

Can you swim in South Sri Lanka?

  • Yes— swell and tides permitting. Many of the beaches on the south coast of Sri Lanka are swimmable.

What is the prettiest beach in South Sri Lanka?

  • Hmmm… I think the prettiest beach in South Sri Lanka for me was either Mirissa or Jungle Beach near Unawatuna.

Which South Sri Lankan beach is best for surfing?

  • Weligama and Hiriketiya beach breaks are best for beginners and intermediates. More advanced surfers can try the breaks at Coconut Beach near Weligama, Midigama, and Ahangama.

There Are So Many Stray Dogs In Sri Lanka, How Can I Help?

  • The easiest thing you can do is feed them. You can give them plain white rice and boneless chicken or any other boneless meat, as well as dog food. Many grocery stores sell dog food, but keep in mind that some dogs are picky eaters—do not take it personally if they do not eat what you offer. Of course, a starving dog will eat just about anything. Leaving out some water in a plastic bowl or even an empty coconut can also be helpful. Coconut water is highly hydrating and can benefit dogs as well.

  • Many dogs, especially those further from tourist areas, are afraid of human interaction. If a dog seems hesitant, simply place the food and water nearby and step away to give them space. I promise they will eat once you leave!

  • If you come across an injured or sick dog, you can notify Animal SOS, a non-profit organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes stray animals in need. They currently have over 2000 dogs!! WECare is another incredible group providing veterinary care and sterilization programs to improve the lives of street dogs.

  • If you notice a dog with fleas or ticks and plan to stay in the area for a while, you can reach out to either organization for help in getting medication to distribute.

  • If you have more time, consider volunteering with one of these organizations to make an even bigger impact. I volunteered with Animal SOS, and it was a truly amazing day that left my heart even fuller.

  • For more tips, resources, and organizations to support, head to my full post on helping stray dogs in Sri Lanka here.

Trying to decide between Udawalawe and Yala for your Sri Lanka safari? Here is my honest comparison after visiting both.

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