Kalpitiya Beach,Sri Lanka

• Dolphin-watching tours (spinner and bottlenose dolphins; best early-morning outings)
• Kitesurfing beaches and schools — internationally known wind conditions
• Bar Reef Marine Sanctuary — Sri Lanka's largest fringing coral reef system (snorkeling/diving access)
• Puttalam Lagoon and mangrove boat safaris
• Nearby islands and sandbanks for day trips and picnics
• Birdwatching in coastal wetlands (migratory and resident species)

• Wide, sandy coastline with scattered lagoons and sandbars
• Strong, reliable winds in the kitesurfing season (ideal flat-water conditions on the lagoon side)
• Mangrove ecosystems supporting fisheries and birdlife
• Relatively undeveloped, low-rise coastal villages offering eco- and community-based tourism

• Dolphin & whale-spotting boat trips (early morning recommended)
• Kitesurfing and wind sports (lessons, equipment rental and guided sessions available)
• Snorkeling and scuba diving trips to Bar Reef
• Lagoon boat safaris and mangrove exploration
• Birdwatching (seasonal migratory species and shorebirds)
• Village visits, local market exploration and seafood dining

For kitesurfing: May–October (strong, consistent winds). For calmer sea and better dolphin sightings/snorkeling: November–April. Peak tourist months vary by activity.

Tropical coastal climate — warm and humid year-round. Typical daytime temperatures range from about 26°C–32°C. Expect wetter conditions aligned with Sri Lanka's monsoon patterns; windier season is May–October.

Nearest international airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo, CMB) — about 3–4 hours by road depending on traffic (approx. 140–170 km). Public transport options: trains/buses to Puttalam region with onward tuk‑tuk or taxi to Kalpitiya; many travelers prefer private transfers or rented vehicles. Roads to the peninsula are mostly paved but final stretches to some beaches/lagoon access points may be sandy.

Stay 2–4 nights to combine kitesurfing/dolphin-watching and a reef/lagoon excursion; 4+ nights if you plan diving, multiple water activities or relaxed village visits.

Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunhat and sunglasses. Reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes or reef-protective footwear for snorkeling, a light windbreaker for early mornings/AC, and modest clothing for village or religious site visits. If kitesurfing, book lessons with reputable schools and use provided safety gear.

Local cuisine highlights: fresh seafood (crab, prawns, fish curries), coconut-based dishes and rice specialties. Try simple beachside grills and local sambols. Souvenirs: handmade shell crafts, woven mats and locally produced spices; when buying, favor community-run stalls to support local livelihoods.