Sri Lanka 5-Day Beach Tour Itinerary
Overview
Experience the ultimate Sri Lanka tour and beach holiday with this 5-day itinerary along the island’s stunning southern coast. In addition, from golden sandy beaches to historic colonial towns, thrilling water sports, and marine wildlife encounters, this trip combines relaxation, adventure, culture, and culinary delights. For example, discover the surf-ready waves of Arugam Bay, the whale-watching paradise of Mirissa, and the family-friendly Unawatuna Beach. Throughout the journey, the itinerary takes you from Bentota to Tangalle, showcasing the best of Sri Lanka’s tropical coastline.
Day 1: Start Your Sri Lanka Beach Holiday – Arrival in Colombo & Bentota
Distance: 65 km from airport (1.5 hours)
Overnight: Bentota
Morning/Afternoon
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo, after which you will 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. Moreover, the beach is known for its golden sands, calm waters, and luxury resorts. Check into beachfront resort accommodation.
Late Afternoon
Next, enjoy your first beach experience. Relax on Bentota Beach with golden sand and palm trees. Coconut water welcome drink served beachside. Meanwhile, attend a beach orientation and water sports briefing.
Evening
Then, take a sunset cruise on Bentota River and observe fascinating birds and mangrove ecosystems. Afterwards, enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant followed by a traditional fire dance performance.
Accommodation Suggestions: Centara Ceysands, Bentota Beach by Cinnamon, or Vivanta Bentota
Day 2: Bentota → Water Sports & River Safari → Galle
Distance: 64 km (1.5 hours)
Overnight: Galle/Unawatuna
Morning – Adventure Activities
Start your day with jet skiing on Bentota River and lagoon. Additionally, try banana boat rides and water skiing, or join windsurfing lessons for beginners. For thrill-seekers, a deep sea fishing excursion is optional.
Late Morning
Then, enjoy a Bentota River Safari by speedboat. Visit Cinnamon Island and spice gardens. Furthermore, explore mangroves and birdwatch while witnessing a traditional toddy tapping demonstration.
Afternoon
Check out and drive to Galle. Along the way, have lunch at Bentota with fresh seafood and ocean views. Enjoy a scenic coastal drive along palm-fringed beaches.
Evening
Arrive in Galle Fort – UNESCO World Heritage Site. Subsequently, check into a boutique hotel within the fort walls. Take a walking tour of colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, followed by sunset viewing from fort ramparts with an ocean panorama. Enjoy a Dutch colonial dinner at a heritage restaurant.
Accommodation Suggestions: Amangalla (luxury), Fort Printers (boutique), or Galle Fort Hotel
Day 3: Galle Fort → Unawatuna Beach → Mirissa
Distance: 20 km total (45 minutes)
Overnight: Mirissa
Morning
Explore Galle Fort – lighthouse, churches, and museums. In addition, visit the Maritime Archaeology Museum and Dutch Hospital precinct. Shop for gems, antiques, and local crafts, while enjoying a photography session at iconic fort locations.
Late Morning
Drive to Unawatuna Beach. This beach is particularly famous because it boasts golden sands, calm turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Snorkel at the coral reefs, followed by a beach lunch at a palm-shaded restaurant.
Afternoon
Relax and swim in the protected bay. Alternatively, indulge in an Ayurvedic massage on the beach. Later, transfer to Mirissa – the whale-watching capital.
Evening
Check into beachfront accommodation in Mirissa. Afterwards, explore local restaurants along the Galle–Matara road. Watch the sunset at Coconut Tree Hill – an Instagram-famous viewpoint, followed by a beachside barbecue dinner.
Accommodation Suggestions: Cape Weligama (luxury), Mirissa Hills Resort, or Palace Mirissa
Day 4: Mirissa → Whale Watching → Tangalle
Distance: 45 km (1 hour)
Overnight: Tangalle
Early Morning (5:30 AM departure)
Go on a whale watching expedition – 3-4 hours at sea. During the trip, spot blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins, with a professional marine biologist guide on board. Breakfast is served on the boat.
Late Morning
Return to shore and freshen up. Then, celebrate successful whale sightings with champagne. Enjoy more beach time at Mirissa – swimming and relaxation.
Afternoon
Check out and drive to Tangalle. Along the way, have lunch at a scenic beachfront restaurant. Upon arrival, explore Goyambokka Beach, one of Sri Lanka’s hidden gems.
Evening
Check into a luxury beach resort. Later, enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars with the ocean breeze.
Accommodation Suggestions: Anantara Peace Haven, Buckingham Place, or Turtle Bay Resort
Day 5: Tangalle → Turtle Watching → Return to Colombo
Distance: 195 km (4 hours with stops)
Departure: Colombo Airport
Early Morning
Start the day with a sunrise yoga session on Tangalle beach. Next, visit a sea turtle conservation center for turtle watching and learn about marine conservation efforts.
Morning
Relax at the beach and enjoy a beachside breakfast with tropical fruits. In addition, indulge in an Ayurvedic spa treatment. Capture memories in a beach photography session.
Afternoon
Check out and begin the journey back to Colombo. During the drive, stop at viewpoints and have lunch at Koggala Beach. Also, visit stilt fishermen – an iconic Sri Lankan sight.
Evening
Arrive in Colombo. Then, enjoy a final dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Indian Ocean and shop for souvenirs at Odel or local markets. Finally, transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure and a beach memories photo album presentation.