East coast Arugam Bay is best for those who don’t seek entertainment (best April to July).

Bentota beach which Brits managed to minimise to Ben-tot is well orgnised for all water sports including wakeboarding and windsurfing.

Hikkadua pulls youngsters for mayhem, surf and all-night boogies. It has to be said that Hikkadua's surf break is one of the best in the country. The good news is that it is easily accesible from your boutique hotel in Galle, so its sun and sea with a massage at the end of the day.

The other extreme is Kalapitya near Puttlam lagoon, the furtherst West-coast chill out zone for Colombo’s smart beach bums who dolphin & whale watch, sail, snorkell and kite surf in desert-island solitude. There is talk of stylish accomodation on the horizon, but still today you're on your own.

The Serendip Riviera begins south of Galle. Among the favourites are Unawatuna with its Goa-esque atmosphere of cafes & bars, safe for families, diving, snorkling or hanging out.

Weligama, home of the famous stilt fishermen encapsulates the perenial charm of the south coast with the most. One of the best beaches is no doubt Mirissa a peaceful, white bay with a wide stretch of sand.

The Serendip Riviera continues passed Matara through to spectacular beaches like Talalla Beach, Dickwella Beach or Senimodera Beach, miles of white sand, palm trees and clearest water. These are, we would say, the best beaches on the south. Senimodera, directly accessible from two of the most luxurious private villas in the country (The Beach House and The Last House), wins a very tight contest.

Just try not to get hooked!