Beaches
Sri Lanka’s beaches follow the monsoons: the south and west are best from December to April, and the east from about May to September. Pick your coast by the month, then swim only where the flag is green.
Places travellers love for this, verified by local editors.
The short answer
Sandbanks and shallow seas extend toward India in the legendary chain known as Adam's Bridge or Rama Setu. Most visitors need 1–3 hours. Best time: january to September; hottest from May to August.
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1–3 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–3 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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Half day to full day · Paid entry or permit · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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Half day to full day · Paid entry or permit · Beaches
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1–3 days · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
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1–4 hours · Free entry · Beaches
Beaches: questions people ask
Which coast in Sri Lanka has the best beaches right now?
From December to April, the south and west coasts. From about May to September, the east coast, from Trincomalee down to Arugam Bay.
Are Sri Lankan beaches safe for swimming?
Many are, in season, but currents can be strong. Swim where the flag is green, near other swimmers, and stay out when the sea is rough.
Can I wear a bikini on the beach in Sri Lanka?
Yes, on beaches used to visitors. Cover up when you leave the beach, in towns and at temples.