Sri Lanka 5-Day Beach Tour Itinerary

Overview

This perfect beach getaway explores Sri Lanka’s stunning southern coast, featuring golden sandy beaches, historic colonial towns, exciting water sports, and marine wildlife experiences. Top beaches of Sri Lanka have it all: from the surf-ready waves of Arugam Bay, the whale-watching paradise of Mirissa, to the family-friendly vibe of Unawatuna Beach. The itinerary covers the best beaches from Bentota to Tangalle, combining relaxation, adventure, culture, and culinary delights.

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo → Bentota Beach

Distance: 65km from airport (1.5 hours) Overnight: Bentota

Morning/Afternoon

  • Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo
  • Meet your beach tour guide and transfer to Bentota
  • Bentota Beach, located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, is a favorite destination for water sports enthusiasts. The beach is known for its golden sands, calm waters, and luxury resorts
  • Check into beachfront resort accommodation

Late Afternoon

  • Welcome to Paradise – First beach experience
  • Relax on Bentota Beach with golden sand and palm trees
  • Coconut water welcome drink served beachside
  • Beach orientation and water sports briefing

Evening

  • Sunset cruise on Bentota River
  • Observe exotic birds and mangrove ecosystems
  • Seafood dinner at beachfront restaurant
  • Traditional fire dance performance on the beach

Accommodation Suggestions: Centara Ceysands, Bentota Beach by Cinnamon, or Vivanta Bentota

Day 2: Bentota → Water Sports & River Safari → Galle

Distance: 64km (1.5 hours) Overnight: Galle/Unawatuna

Morning – Adventure Activities

  • Jet skiing on Bentota River and lagoon
  • Banana boat rides and water skiing
  • Windsurfing lessons for beginners
  • Deep sea fishing excursion (optional)

Late Morning

  • Bentota River Safari by speedboat
  • Visit Cinnamon Island and spice gardens
  • Mangrove exploration and bird watching
  • Traditional toddy tapping demonstration

Afternoon

  • Check out and drive to Galle
  • Lunch at Bentota – fresh seafood with ocean views
  • Scenic coastal drive along palm-fringed beaches

Evening

  • Arrive in Galle Fort – UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Check into boutique hotel within the fort walls
  • Walking tour of colonial architecture and cobblestone streets
  • Sunset viewing from fort ramparts with ocean panorama
  • Dutch colonial dinner at heritage restaurant

Accommodation Suggestions: Amangalla (luxury), Fort Printers (boutique), or Galle Fort Hotel

Day 3: Galle Fort → Unawatuna Beach → Mirissa

Distance: 20km total (45 minutes) Overnight: Mirissa

Morning

  • Galle Fort exploration – lighthouse, churches, museums
  • Maritime Archaeology Museum and Dutch Hospital precinct
  • Shopping for gems, antiques, and local crafts
  • Photography session at iconic fort locations

Late Morning

  • Short drive to Unawatuna Beach
  • Located on the southern coast, Unawatuna Beach is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular and picturesque beaches. Known for its golden sands, calm turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, Unawatuna is a haven for beach lovers
  • Snorkeling excursion at coral reefs
  • Beach lunch at palm-shaded restaurant

Afternoon

  • Beach relaxation and swimming in protected bay
  • Ayurvedic massage on the beach (optional)
  • Transfer to Mirissa – whale watching capital

Evening

  • Check into beachfront accommodation in Mirissa
  • After dark, the focus shifts to the excellent restaurants flanking busy Galle–Matara road. After swimming and snorkeling, take a relaxing stroll along Mirissa Beach
  • Sunset at Coconut Tree Hill – Instagram-famous viewpoint
  • Beachside barbecue dinner with fresh catch of the day

Accommodation Suggestions: Cape Weligama (luxury), Mirissa Hills Resort, or Palace Mirissa

Day 4: Mirissa → Whale Watching → Tangalle

Distance: 45km (1 hour) Overnight: Tangalle

Early Morning (5:30 AM departure)

  • Whale watching expedition – 3-4 hours at sea
  • Many of those descending upon Mirissa’s moon-shaped bay are here for the blue whales
  • Spot blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins
  • Professional marine biologist guide on boat
  • Breakfast served on boat during the expedition

Late Morning

  • Return to shore and freshen up
  • Champagne celebration for successful whale sightings
  • Beach time at Mirissa – swimming and relaxation

Afternoon

  • Check out and drive to Tangalle
  • Most travelers have never heard of Tangalle—and they’re missing out. In this Sri Lankan gem, you’ll find some of the best beaches on the island, like Goyambokka Beach, where you could lie out for hours under the gently swaying palms
  • Lunch at scenic beachfront restaurant en route

Evening

  • Arrive at Tangalle – pristine and less crowded beaches
  • Check into luxury beach resort
  • Goyambokka Beach exploration and photography
  • Romantic dinner under the stars with ocean breeze

Accommodation Suggestions: Anantara Peace Haven, Buckingham Place, or Turtle Bay Resort

Day 5: Tangalle → Turtle Watching → Return to Colombo

Distance: 195km (4 hours with stops) Departure: Colombo Airport

Early Morning

  • Sunrise yoga session on pristine Tangalle beach
  • Sea turtle conservation center visit
  • Turtle watching experience – observe nesting or hatching (seasonal)
  • Learn about marine conservation efforts

Morning

  • Final beach relaxation and swimming
  • Beachside breakfast with tropical fruits and Sri Lankan specialties
  • Spa treatment – Ayurvedic massage by the ocean (optional)
  • Beach photography session capturing memories

Afternoon

  • Check out and begin journey back to Colombo
  • Scenic coastal drive with stops at viewpoints
  • Lunch at Koggala – With white sands backed by sea-leaning palms and lush, tropical vegetation, Koggala Beach is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka
  • Brief visit to stilt fishermen (iconic Sri Lankan sight)

Evening

  • Arrive in Colombo
  • Final dinner at rooftop restaurant overlooking Indian Ocean
  • Shopping time at Odel or local markets for beach souvenirs
  • Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure
  • Beach memories photo album presentation

Beach Activities & Water Sports

Water Sports Available:

  • Jet skiing – High-speed thrills on calm waters
  • Windsurfing – Perfect conditions year-round
  • Water skiing – Professional instructors available
  • Banana boat rides – Fun group activities
  • Kayaking – River and ocean adventures
  • Stand-up paddleboarding – Peaceful water exploration

Marine Life Experiences:

  • Whale watching – Blue whales, sperm whales, dolphins (November-April peak season)
  • Snorkeling – Colorful coral reefs and tropical fish
  • Deep sea fishing – Marlin, tuna, and other game fish
  • Turtle watching – Sea turtle nesting and conservation
  • Diving – PADI certified centers available

Beach Relaxation:

  • Ayurvedic massages – Traditional treatments on the beach
  • Beach yoga – Sunrise and sunset sessions
  • Meditation – Guided sessions with ocean sounds
  • Sunbathing – Perfect tropical climate
  • Beach volleyball – Social activities with other travelers

Cultural & Heritage Experiences

Galle Fort Heritage:

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site – 17th-century Dutch colonial architecture
  • Lighthouse visits – Historic maritime navigation
  • Maritime museums – Sri Lanka’s seafaring history
  • Art galleries – Local and international contemporary art
  • Antique shopping – Colonial-era artifacts and gems

Local Culture:

  • Traditional fishing – Stilt fishermen and outrigger boats
  • Village visits – Coastal community interactions
  • Spice garden tours – Cinnamon and tropical spices
  • Toddy tapping – Traditional palm wine extraction
  • Cooking classes – Sri Lankan seafood cuisine

Accommodation Standards

Luxury Beach Resorts:

  • Beachfront locations with direct beach access
  • Infinity pools overlooking the Indian Ocean
  • Spa facilities – Ayurvedic and international treatments
  • Multiple dining options – Seafood, international, and local cuisine
  • Water sports centers – Equipment and instruction included

Boutique Hotels:

  • Unique colonial charm within historic areas
  • Personalized service with attention to detail
  • Local architectural elements and cultural design
  • Rooftop terraces and ocean-view balconies
  • Art collections and curated interiors

Culinary Journey

Seafood Specialties:

  • Fresh fish curry – Daily catch prepared Sri Lankan style
  • Grilled lobster and prawns with local spices
  • Crab curry – Negombo style with coconut milk
  • Fish ambul thiyal – Sour fish curry specialty
  • Isso wade – Prawn fritters street food style

Tropical Dining Experiences:

  • Beachside barbecues – Grilled seafood under stars
  • Floating breakfast – Served in infinity pools
  • Sunset cocktails – Tropical drinks with ocean views
  • Colonial high tea – British heritage with local twist
  • Street food tours – Authentic local flavors

Best Time for Beach Tour

Peak Season (December – March):

  • The South and West Coasts (e.g., Galle, Mirissa, Tangalle): Best time: December to April. These months offer dry weather, calm seas, and sunny skies, making them ideal for swimming, surfing, and relaxation
  • Perfect weather – Sunny and dry
  • Calm seas – Ideal for water sports
  • Whale watching season – Highest success rates

Shoulder Season (April-May, October-November):

  • Good weather with occasional rain
  • Fewer crowds and better prices
  • Still suitable for all beach activities

Practical Information

What to Pack:

  • Sunscreen – High SPF for tropical sun
  • Swimwear – Multiple sets for daily beach activities
  • Beach cover-ups – Lightweight and quick-dry
  • Waterproof camera – Underwater photography
  • Reef-safe toiletries – Environmentally conscious products
  • Sandals and flip-flops – Beach and evening wear

Health & Safety:

  • Swimming safety – Lifeguards at major beaches
  • Sun protection – UV rays are strong year-round
  • Water quality – Stick to bottled water
  • Marine safety – Follow guide instructions during water sports
  • Travel insurance – Coverage for water activities recommended

Transportation:

  • Private air-conditioned vehicle with experienced coastal driver
  • Boat transfers for river and marine activities
  • Airport transfers included in package
  • All fuel and tolls covered

Package Inclusions & Pricing

5-Day Complete Beach Package Includes:

  • 4 nights accommodation at premium beach resorts/boutique hotels
  • All breakfasts and 3 dinners (welcome, heritage, and farewell)
  • Whale watching expedition with professional guide
  • Water sports activities – Jet skiing, windsurfing, banana boat
  • Bentota river safari and spice garden visit
  • Galle Fort guided tour and cultural experiences
  • Snorkeling equipment and beach activities
  • Airport transfers and all transportation
  • Professional beach guide throughout the tour

Estimated Costs (Per Person, Twin Sharing):

  • Standard Beach Package: $650-850
  • Deluxe Beach Package: $850-1,200
  • Luxury Beach Experience: $1,200-2,000+

Optional Add-ons:

  • Scuba diving with PADI certification: $80-120 per dive
  • Deep sea fishing: $150-200 per person
  • Helicopter coastal tour: $200-300 per person
  • Private yacht charter: $300-500 per day
  • Extended spa treatments: $60-150 per treatment

Not Included:

  • International flights and visa fees ($50 ETA)
  • Most lunches (allows flexibility for local restaurant exploration)
  • Alcoholic beverages and premium dining
  • Personal expenses and shopping
  • Tips for guides and hotel staff
  • Travel insurance
  • Single room supplement (add 40-50%)

Special Features:

  • Small group friendly (2-12 people maximum)
  • Family packages available with kid-friendly activities
  • Honeymoon specials – Romantic dinners and couple activities
  • Photography tours – Professional guidance for Instagram shots
  • Flexible itinerary – Customizable based on preferences
  • Weather guarantee – Alternative indoor activities during rain

This comprehensive beach tour showcases the very best of Sri Lanka’s southern coast, combining pristine beaches, exciting water sports, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable marine wildlife experiences for the perfect tropical getaway.