Trincomalee is one of the natural deep-water harbours in the world. The town is dominated by the Koneswaram Hindu temple perched on Swami Rock above the Indian Ocean. Between May and October, the Trincomalee coast becomes one of the best places to see blue and sperm whales, while nearby beaches at Uppuveli and Nilaveli offer swimming in waters of clarity.

One of Sri Lanka's most beloved beach resorts, Hikkaduwa offers a colourful coral sanctuary just metres from the shore, and a stretch of golden beach buzzing with surf schools, beachside cafes and vibrant nightlife. The coral reef here - viewable by glass-bottom boat or snorkel - is home to sea turtles, parrotfish and tropical reef species that thrive in the warm, shallow waters.

Just above Trincomalee, Nilaveli offers one of Sri Lanka's most pristine beach experiences - a long, wide arc of pale sand lapped by calm, crystal-clear water. The Pigeon Island National Park, a short boat ride offshore, is home to vibrant coral reefs and a colony of rock pigeons, as well as blacktip reef sharks that patrol the shallows in plain sight of snorkellers.

Tangalle is a place of unspoiled beauty - wild stretches of beach separated by rocky headlands, turquoise coves and crashing surf. Unlike the more touristy beaches, Tangalle retains a sense of natural wildness. Rekawa Beach nearby is one of the most important nesting sites for sea turtles, and nighttime visits to witness these ancient creatures come ashore to lay their eggs are among the most moving experiences.

Kalpitiya is a kitesurfer's paradise and a premier destination for dolphin watching, with the Bar Reef Marine Sanctuary - Sri Lanka's largest - lying just offshore. The vast, wind-swept lagoon behind the peninsula is ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing, while boat excursions into the Puttalam Lagoon regularly encounter spinner dolphins in pods of hundreds.

Mirissa is renowned as one of the world's best locations for blue whale watching between December and April, when these magnificent creatures pass close to shore during their annual migration. The beach's relaxed atmosphere, excellent seafood shacks and warm, swimmable water make it a firm favourite for travellers seeking a perfect blend of nature and leisure.

Pasikuda is home to one of Sri Lanka's most remarkable natural features - a shallow, calm bay with turquoise water on the island, stretching for over a kilometre. The beach is tranquil, fringed with swaying palms, and ideal for swimming, snorkelling and paddleboarding. Pasikuda's luxury resorts make it a premier destination for those seeking an exclusive beach escape.

Often a traveller's first taste of Sri Lanka, Negombo is a vibrant coastal city just 30 minutes from the international airport. The town's Dutch colonial heritage is visible in its canals, fort and old church, while its long sandy beach and abundant seafood restaurants make it a delightful place to begin or end a journey.

A laid-back surfers' haven on the east coast, Arugam Bay has earned its place on the global surf map with its world-class right-hand point break that draws wave riders from around the globe between May and October. Beyond surfing, the surrounding area is rich with wildlife - Kumana National Park, Crocodile Rock and the Pottuvil Lagoon are all nearby, offering incredible encounters with nature.

A picture-perfect resort town on the south-western coast, Bentota is celebrated for its golden beach, calm azure waters and a wealth of water sports, including jet skiing, banana boat rides and deep-sea fishing. Bentota is also home to some of Sri Lanka's finest beach resorts, making it an ideal base for honeymooners and families alike.