The short answer
- December to April
- South and west coasts
- May to September
- East coast
- October and November
- Wet on most coasts
- Surfing
- Arugam Bay, about April to October
Sri Lanka's beaches take turns. When the south west monsoon reaches the south and west coasts around May, the east coast calms down, and when the north east monsoon hits the east around November, the south is ready again. Pick your month on the map to see which coast to choose.
Pick your month
Choose your month
January
Peak season on the south and west coasts; the east is still wet.
- West coast (best)Colombo, Negombo, Bentota
- Hill country (best)Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella
- South coast (best)Galle, Unawatuna, Mirissa
- Yala (best)south east safari parks
- North (Jaffna) (mixed)
- Cultural Triangle (mixed)Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa
- East coast (wet or difficult)Trincomalee, Pasikudah, Arugam Bay
The best beaches
| Beach | Coast | Best months | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mirissa | South | December to April | Whale watching, Coconut Tree Hill, nightlife |
| Unawatuna and Jungle Beach | South | December to April | Calm swimming near Galle Fort |
| Tangalle | South | December to April | Long, quiet beaches and boutique stays |
| Hiriketiya | South | December to April | A small surf bay with a laid back scene |
| Bentota | West | November to April | Resorts, river trips and water sports |
| Nilaveli and Uppuveli | East | May to September | White sand near Trincomalee, Pigeon Island snorkelling |
| Pasikudah | East | May to September | Shallow, calm water for families |
| Arugam Bay | East | May to September | Surfing, lagoon safaris |
Tip: Many south coast beaches have strong currents, even in season. Swim where locals swim and follow the flags.
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Frequently asked questions
Which side of Sri Lanka is best in July?
The east coast: Trincomalee, Nilaveli, Pasikudah and Arugam Bay are dry and calm, while the south and west have the monsoon.
Which side of Sri Lanka is best in January?
The south and west: Mirissa, Unawatuna, Tangalle and Bentota. The east coast is still wet.
Can you swim in Sri Lanka in the monsoon?
On the opposite coast, yes. On the monsoon coast seas are rough and swimming can be dangerous.
Sri Lanka month by month
More Sri Lanka guides
Best time to visit Sri Lanka: the two monsoons explained
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Kandy to Ella train: what is running now, tickets and seats
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Sri Lanka entrance fees for 2026 and 2027, with a cost calculator
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