Beaches Archives - Ditto Travels

Exploring Sri Lanka’s Beautiful Beaches with Ditto Travels

dhanu — Wed, 25 Dec 2024 06:27:54 +0000

Sri Lanka, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” boasts some of the world’s most stunning beaches. From golden sands to turquoise waters, these coastal paradises offer a perfect escape for travelers.

With nearly 1600 km of of palm fringed Coastline baked to perfection surrounding the country Sri Lanka is the ideal destination for beach bums worldwide. May it be windsurfing, kayaking, yachting, water skiing, scuba diving or jut lazing around for the perfect tan, Sri Lanka offers it all.

Sri Lanka: Where Every Beach Tells a Story

Ditto Travels

The two monsoon winds providing rain to the two corners of the country at various periods, makes Sri Lanka’s beach holiday a year round prospect. The north east winds make the south western coast sunny and the sea calm from November to March. The South West winds make the East Coast waters quiet with the constant sun shine happily in agreement.

The best of the Southern beaches include Tangalla, Beruwala, Mirissa, Bentota and Unawatuna with varying options including chic boutique hotels, glowing coral reefs, gentle sandbars and undiscovered corners of paradise.

On the Western corner of the country to the north of Colombo is the Negambo lagoon. Its beaches, an old favourite with local and foreign visitors and lagoon famed for lobster harvesting. Despite having a ring of sandy beaches surrounding the country, Galle Face Green, a half a kilometre stretch between Galle Road and Indian Ocean is the playground of the Colombians.

Also Nilaveli is a coastal resort town located about 20 km North-West of Trincomalee, Trincomalee District, Sri Lanka. It used to be a popular tourist destination. Arugam Bay is a bay situated on the Indian Ocean in the dry zone of Sri Lanka’s southeast coast. The bay is located 320 km due east of Colombo. It is a popular surfing and tourist destination. Pasikudah or Pasikuda is a coastal resort town located about 35 kilometers northwest of Batticaloa, Batticaloa District, Sri Lanka. It used to be a popular tourist destination, Pasikudah and Kalkudah are located few km apart.

Must-visit beaches in Sri Lanka

1. Unawatuna Beach

Located near the historic city of Galle, Unawatuna Beach is renowned for its calm waters and vibrant coral reefs. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is lined with restaurants and cafes, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and entertainment.

2. Mirissa Beach

Mirissa is famous for its picturesque crescent-shaped shoreline and as a prime location for whale watching. Between December and April, visitors have the chance to spot blue whales and dolphins. The tranquil environment makes it a favorite among tourists seeking serenity.

3. Arugam Bay

Situated on the east coast, Arugam Bay is a surfer’s paradise. With its consistent waves, it’s considered one of the top surfing destinations globally. The laid-back atmosphere and local eateries add to its charm.

4. Bentota Beach

Bentota Beach offers a blend of relaxation and adventure. Known for its water sports, including jet skiing and windsurfing, it’s perfect for thrill-seekers. The nearby Bentota River adds to the scenic beauty, providing opportunities for river safaris.

5. Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life, making it a hotspot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The beach’s lively nightlife and beachfront bars attract a youthful crowd.

6. Nilaveli Beach

Located near Trincomalee on the northeast coast, Nilaveli Beach is known for its pristine sands and clear waters. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling, especially around Pigeon Island, which is a short boat ride away.

7. Tangalle Beach

Tangalle offers a more secluded beach experience with its expansive sandy stretches and calm turquoise waters. It’s an ideal location for those looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots.

8. Passikuda Beach

Passikuda, on the east coast, is famous for its shallow coastline, allowing visitors to wade into the clear blue waters for quite a distance. This makes it particularly safe and enjoyable for families with children.

9. Trincomalee Beach

Trincomalee boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, with soft sands and gentle waves. It’s also a gateway to exploring marine life, with opportunities for whale watching and diving.

10. Galle Face Green

While not a traditional beach, Galle Face Green in Colombo is a popular ocean-side urban park where locals and tourists gather to enjoy the sea breeze, fly kites, and savor street food. It’s a great spot to experience the local culture and enjoy a coastal sunset.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit these beaches varies:

Southwest Coast (e.g., Unawatuna, Mirissa, Bentota): Best visited from November to April when the seas are calm and the weather is pleasant.

East Coast (e.g., Arugam Bay, Nilaveli, Passikuda): Optimal from May to September, offering sunny days and suitable sea conditions.

Activities to Enjoy

Surfing: Arugam Bay is the go-to spot for surfing enthusiasts.

Snorkeling and Diving: Hikkaduwa and Nilaveli offer vibrant underwater ecosystems.

Whale Watching: Mirissa provides seasonal whale watching tours.

Water Sports: Bentota is equipped with facilities for various water sports.

Travel Tips with Ditto Travels

Sun Protection: Always apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the tropical sun.

Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs; modest swimwear is advisable on certain beaches.

Safety: Pay attention to local advisories regarding sea conditions, especially during monsoon seasons.

Book Your Tour !!!

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Hikkaduwa Beach: A Coastal Gem of Sri Lanka with Ditto Travels

dhanu — Sat, 04 May 2024 08:17:34 +0000

Hikkaduwa Beach Sri Lanka, located on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, is a vibrant destination celebrated for its golden sands, lively coral reefs, and dynamic surf culture. Approximately 100 kilometers south of Colombo, Hikkaduwa has evolved from a quaint fishing village into a bustling tourist hub, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and array of activities.

Experience the Magic of Hikkaduwa Beach: Dive into Adventure

Ditto Travels

Hikkaduwa Beach Sri Lanka is one of the best surfing spots in Sri Lanka, offering a clear hot water base. The waves vary in size from 4 to 11 feet. Surfing in the Hikkaduwa area is fairly well known and gets the best surfing during its dry season, which is from November to March. There are 4 hotspots in Hikkaduwa. Scuba diving and diving in clear waters are a major past time along this stretch and is the most ecological way to see the colorful fish that dart around. The coral sanctuary along the coast of Hikkaduwa is a large shallow body of water surrounded by a reef, decorated with layers of multicolored corals, and is home to countless colorful fish. Off the beach there is a collection of small islets surrounded by beautiful coral formations. Many species of fish and large turtles are found here. There are more than four different shipwrecks for diving enthusiasts to explore as well as diving shops offering PADI courses and equipment.

There are so many hotels, shops, bars, restaurants and guest houses. The beaches are beautiful and wide and swimming is safe here, although the currents are stronger when it comes south of Hikkaduwa. The impressive coral reef lies just offshore and is still populated with exotic fish and sea turtles. Glass bottom boats are available for visitors who want to admire the wonders of deep while keeping their feet dry! After a short distance south of the center of the reef, it decreases and begins a wider sandy beach with good waves ideal for board surfing and body surfing. There are many shops selling masks, jewelry, jewelry, batik, antiques and etc. with several Buddhist temples, all of which add spices to life in Hikkaduwa.

Geographical Significance

Hikkaduwa’s coastal stretch is renowned for its clear blue waters and thriving marine ecosystems. The beach is part of the Hikkaduwa National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s three marine national parks, emphasizing its ecological importance and the need for conservation.

Key Attractions

Coral Reefs: The shallow waters of Hikkaduwa are home to vibrant coral formations, making it a prime spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can witness a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles.
ADVENTURE AND SUNSHINE

Surfing: Hikkaduwa is a popular destination for surfers of all levels. The main beach offers gentle waves suitable for beginners, while more challenging breaks like North Jetty and Bennys attract experienced surfers.
EL PAÍS

Sea Turtles: The beach is famous for its resident sea turtles, often seen near the shore. Visitors can observe these gentle creatures, especially during early morning hours.
SHARING THE WANDER

Beachfront Cafés and Shops: The coastline is lined with a variety of eateries and boutiques, offering local cuisine and crafts, contributing to Hikkaduwa’s lively atmosphere.

Cultural Insights

Hikkaduwa hosts several cultural and religious sites, including temples that reflect Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. The town’s annual Hikkaduwa Beach Festival showcases local music, dance, and art, providing a glimpse into the island’s vibrant culture.

Travel Tips with Ditto Travels

Best Time to Visit: The ideal period to experience Hikkaduwa is from November to April, characterized by calm seas and sunny weather, perfect for beach activities.

Accommodation: Hikkaduwa offers a range of lodging options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist season.

Environmental Responsibility: Visitors are encouraged to respect the marine environment by not touching corals or feeding sea turtles, ensuring the preservation of Hikkaduwa’s natural beauty for future generations.

Book Your Tour !!!

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