Sri Lanka’s West Coast

One of the finest coastal regions in the country, Sri Lanka’s west coast, stretching from Kalpitiya in the north to Bentota in the south, has a varied character and is perfect for relaxing in style beside or on the beach between October and March.

To the north of Colombo, the bustling town of Negombo is famous for its expansive beaches, proximity to the international airport, and the ancient Dutch canals that played a significant role in the spice trade. Negombo’s teeming fish market, the second largest in Sri Lanka, is bursting with life. The luxury resorts that dot the Negombo beach are ideal for those seeking a relaxed start and equally for those who would like to enjoy the tranquil beach-front setting before boarding the flight home.

Further north of Negombo, the deserted beaches of Kalpitiya Peninsula are increasingly popular as a destination for dolphin-watching and as a jumping-off point for visiting the remote yet striking Wilpattu National Park. The ruins of the 16th-century Portuguese-built Negombo Fort and the Dutch-built Kalpitiya Fort reveal the region’s fascinating history.

To the south of Colombo, the small towns of Bentota, Wadduwa, and Balapitiya are noted for their golden sandy beaches and the small, stylish, character-rich hotels built alongside them – perfect for soaking up the warm winter sunshine and relaxing.