With the south-west monsoon dominating the south-west, the focus of beach lovers turns to the east coast where the peak holiday season is now well underway. Beach settlements such as Nilaveli and Pasikudah are perfect for a relaxing beach holiday and the weather en route, in the Cultural Triangle is also dry with lots of sunshine.
The eastern end of the south coast, in Tangalle and beyond, also has some of the lowest annual rainfall in Sri Lanka so it is rarely out of season.
Even in the period of the south-west monsoon, it is possible to enjoy days on the south and west coast with just the occasional downpour. Low season prices are attractive and the rain brings freshness to the air although the beaches tend to shrink and sea bathing can be dangerous.
As well as the western and southern coasts, the south-west monsoon also brings rain and cold to the hills where daytime temperatures can be as low as 15C.
