If you're the sort who loves to escape the crowds and taste something a little authentic, then straying north from Colombo into wave-bashed Kalpitiya district could just be the thing for that Sri Lankan travel itinerary. This mostly unknown region that juts out from the island in a panhandle of blustery beaches and muddy mangroves is hailed as one of the best-kept secrets of the Teardrop of India. As you encounter hardy fishing folk, leave footprints on white-yellow sands, snorkel, kayak, and swim in total isolation. 

Don't expect the same abundance of hotels and reggae bars as around Galle in the south; just a smattering of local Kalpitiya tour guides here can help you explore the shimmering sands of places like Palagama Beach or find the fastest-paced kitesurfing spots along the shores of the inland lagoon. They can also help organise a whale and dolphin safari out across the Indian Ocean – isolated Kalpitiya hosts sperm whales and summersault-ing spinner dolphins.