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An island nation located amidst the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka boasts of some of the most popular and stunning beaches in the world. Dotted with coconut trees and lined up by rocky cliffs, the beaches in Sri Lanka make for an excellent reef break for the cool, adventure loving water babies out there.
A country that is especially renowned for its coastlines, Sri Lanka offers its enthusiastic travellers some of the most exhilarating water sports activities to indulge in. An island that is waiting to be explored, the water activities in Sri Lanka not only offer you the most thrilling experience ever, but also offer you a glimpse into the rich marine life and picturesque landscape that this country exhibits. A top destination for water based activities and sports, here’s for you to dive into the world of exciting water activities in Sri Lanka.
Plunge into the waters and the make the most of it with these water sports in Sri Lanka that is worth experiencing for every water lover out there
Scuba diving
An immersive water activity in Sri Lanka, to take part in scuba diving during your time in the island is a must for all the adventure enthusiasts. With the popular scuba diving spots being Unawatuna, Trincomalee and Hikkaduwa, to be part of this water based activity is not only a thrilling experience, but it also offers you a glimpse into the vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine creatures as well as the age-old shipwrecks that are an essential feature of the aquatic life in these waters.
The Great Basses Reef and the Little Basses Reef located in the southern coast of the island are also major spots for scuba diving in Sri Lanka. With incredible visibility and stunning coral formations, you might also get a chance to spot unique marine creatures such manta rays and whale sharks.
Banana boat rides
A fun water activity to be a part of while in Sri Lanka, banana boat rides are mainly carried out in the regions of Colombo and Bentota and is an activity that is not just limited to the beaches. An exciting and adrenaline pumping activity to be a part of, a group of people are towed behind a speedboat on an air filled tube, so prepare yourself to be splashed! A great activity to take part in with friends and family, banana boat rides are unique water sports that are absolutely worth taking part in.
Surfing
A coastline that is best suited for surfing, Sri Lanka attracts surfing enthusiasts from across the world. With the beaches of Weligmama, Hikkaduwa and Arugam Bay being the major spots for surfing in the country, Weligmama is the ideal destination for beginners. Arugam Bay on the other hand is great for the seasoned surfers, while also boasting of a vibrant scenic beauty. With waters that feature year round waves along with a stunning scenic beauty, Sri Lanka is definitely a surfing paradise.
Snorkeling
With the warm and clear waters of the country featuring a teeming marine life, Sri Lanka makes for an excellent destination for snorkelling. Head to Mirissa and Unawatuna for fantastic snorkelling opportunities where you can witness a glimpse of the abundant sea life amidst the crystal clear waters, or visit the Pigeon Island National Park in Trincomalee to swim alongside the colourful fishes and turtles while admiring the vibrant coral formations underneath the water.
Jet skiing
A water activity in Sri Lanka that enthralls you with the speed and excitement it offers, jet skiing is an adrenaline pumping water sport to take part in. Head to Bentota to take part in jet skiing as you rush against the tides and let the waves carry you. The Bentota Lagoon makes for the ideal spot for jet skiing in Sri Lanka since the ideal setting and calm waters make for the perfect conditions to carry this out.
Kayaking
A rather leisurely water activity in Sri Lanka, kayaking and canoeing is quite similar to water rafting, however, this activity is carried forward in a much relaxed manner and within the inland and coastal waterways where the water current is slow. The Mandu river in Sri Lanka makes for the best place to go kayaking because of its calm waters.
A water activity that offers you an excellent opportunity to explore the traditional fishing villages along with the scenic natural beauty of the surrounding areas, the Koggala Lake is another popular destination for kayaking in Sri Lanka. Explore the unexplored corners of the lake and soak in the beauty of the picturesque islands.
Deep sea fishing
A unique water activity to take part in while in Sri Lanka, deep sea fishing here is mainly carried out in the waters of the Indian Ocean. Negombo, Mirissa and Galle make for the ideal spots for deep sea fishing in the country as the waters here are absolutely teeming with all kinds of fishes. Embark on a fishing expedition on a local boat to experience the thrills of big catch.