Experience the sun-kissed serenity of Sri Lanka’s eastern coastline on this 12-day journey through golden beaches, turquoise bays, vibrant coral reefs, and historic harbour towns. This itinerary combines relaxation with cultural and natural exploration, offering opportunities to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, visit sacred temples, explore colonial forts, and unwind under swaying palm trees. Ideal for travellers seeking a slower rhythm, tropical warmth, and unforgettable seaside experiences.
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Negombo, approximately a 30-minute drive. Depending on your arrival time, take a gentle stroll along the beach to enjoy the sunset, or explore the bustling fish market and canals that reflect the town’s colonial heritage. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Negombo.
Depart for Trincomalee on Sri Lanka’s east coast, a scenic drive of around six hours. Stop en route for refreshments and photo opportunities along the coastline. Arrive in the historic harbour city in the late afternoon. Evening at leisure to enjoy the beachfront or hotel amenities. Overnight stay in Trincomalee.
Explore Trincomalee’s highlights, starting with Fort Frederick, a 17th-century fort with panoramic sea views. Visit the sacred Koneswaram Temple perched on Swami Rock, an important Hindu shrine with dramatic cliffside vistas. Relax on Uppuveli Beach in the afternoon and soak in the Indian Ocean views. Overnight stay in Trincomalee.
Take a morning boat trip to Pigeon Island Marine National Park, located about 15 minutes offshore. Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach and a few hours of swimming and sunbathing before returning to Trincomalee. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Trincomalee.
Spend the day at Nilaveli Beach, just 30 minutes from Trincomalee. Relax on the soft sand, swim in calm waters, or rent a kayak for a short paddle. Optional beachside massage or meditation session for ultimate relaxation. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Nilaveli or Trincomalee.
Drive south along the eastern coastline to Pasikudah, approximately a 3-hour journey. Stop along the way to capture scenic views of lagoons and coconut-fringed beaches. Arrive in Pasikudah and spend the afternoon on the bay’s shallow, calm waters. Overnight stay in Pasikudah.
Enjoy a full day of beach relaxation or adventure. Options include stand-up paddleboarding, jet-skiing, or a kayak tour through the coastal lagoons. Take an evening stroll along the palm-lined shore as the sun sets. Overnight stay in Pasikudah.
Travel 1.5 hours south to Batticaloa, a historic town known for its Dutch Fort and lagoon views. Take a guided boat tour on the lagoon, explore the fort’s ramparts, and learn about the town’s colonial history. Return to Pasikudah for the evening. Overnight stay in Pasikudah.
Drive approximately 4–5 hours south along the coast to Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka’s world-renowned surf and beach destination. Stop for lunch and photo opportunities along the coastal route. Evening at leisure to relax on the beach. Overnight stay in Arugam Bay.
Start the day with a surf lesson or a morning yoga session on the beach. Optional excursions include visiting Kumana National Park for wildlife spotting, or Peanut Farm Beach for a quieter, secluded experience. Enjoy the local cafés in the late afternoon. Overnight stay in Arugam Bay.
Take a final sunrise walk or morning swim on the beach before beginning the journey back to Colombo, roughly an 8-hour drive with stops along the way for refreshments. Option to overnight near Colombo for convenience or catch an evening flight if preferred. Overnight stay en route or near Colombo.
Complete your journey with a transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward flight. If time allows, enjoy a brief city tour including Pettah Market, Galle Face Green, or Gangaramaya Temple. Depart after a memorable tropical coastal adventure.