Kalpitiya

Kalpitiya is a sandy peninsula and lagoon on the north-west coast that has become Sri Lanka's kitesurfing capital, with flat-water lagoons and steady cross-shore winds across two distinct seasons. It is still relatively undeveloped, defined by eco-camps and boutique tents rather than big resorts, which is much of its appeal. The waters offshore host large pods of spinner dolphins and, in season, sperm and blue whales, while the Bar Reef marine sanctuary is among the most biodiverse reefs in the region. Long sandbar beaches, a Dutch fort and the wilds of Wilpattu National Park a short drive inland make it as much an adventure base as a beach.