If my last post on Tangalle beach did not convince you that the southern beaches in Sri Lanka are worth the trip, I’m certain that you will be convinced by the end of this one.
The way to see all these beaches is to settle yourself in one place and have a different adventure everyday as you explore the coast by bus, tuktuk or scooter.
Weligama Beach in Sri Lanka.
We stayed in an architect’s home on Weligama Bay, between Mirissa and Weligama town. The place is called Weligama Bay Eco Resort. Our base camp to explore the coast from. A haven from the heat of the day complete with fish pond water feature, resident iguana and delicious shade on the veranda.
Beach access is down a narrow village road. As you pass, children wave from their homes and practice their best English greetings on you. A large bay awaits at the end of the road. The waters coax you to enter with their gentle and consistent waves. Ideal for the beginner surfer and long boarder.
Sri Lankan surfer dudes, typically with dreadlocks and boardies, chill on the beach waiting for business to fall in their laps. Each has a quiver of boards, lined up and ready to be dispensed into the hands of newby surfers. A surf lesson is a welcome addition to their sea sand service.
The beach on the town side of Weligama Bay is home to many a fishing boat, net fixing or a spontaneous game of cricket on hard sand. 50m from the shore lies a small private island. Apparently the entire island and house can be hired.
Personally, I can think of better places to isolate yourself from the world. But the fact that it is off limits and exclusive had my imagination going for a bit. What really lies beyond that white Pier?
Full moon in Weligama.
We were visiting the southern beaches of Sri Lanka as the full moon approached. Every month, the Buddhists celebrate Full moon Poya. This is also the best time to go searching for baby turtles hatching and adult turtles laying eggs.
Armed with torches (the clouds were not playing along), a dose of positivity and a sprinkling of patience we went out late at night in search of these majestic creatures.
Sadly our patience wasn’t awarded with what we had hoped for. Instead we celebrated the full moon with some locals fishing in the river mouth.
Late night fishing, one activity that transcends cultural and language barriers amongst men. Always about beer, never purely about the fish.
Mirissa Beach in Sri Lanka.
Grab a tuktuk on the Matara Road and head towards Mirissa. Two bays gently curved towards each other in the shape of an upside down m. Where they meet, a part of the earth juts up in a salute to the sky, providing an elevated viewpoint of the double bay. One side displays surfers on the backline, the other an array of sun worshippers begging to be bronzed on the white sands.
As the light of the sun is dimmed, it is replaced by candlelight and gasoline burners scattered across the beach. The sand is decked out with chairs and tables transforming an entire bay into a romantic restaurant scene.
You can wander on the waters edge and decide which display of fresh fish looks most enticing. Decision made, settle in to your chair and enjoy the el fresco delights of Mirissa.
Unawatuna beach in Sri Lanka.
With every lurch of the bus between Weligama and Galle, a vista of blue waters, waves and fishing stilts is revealed. Some bays look good for swimming, others for snorkeling. Watch out for surfboards to know where the good waves are.
Unawatuna, close to Galle is definitely the most festive beach and village. Yes, it is very touristy. In fact, you can hear more Russian spoken than Singalese. But it definitely still has its charm, that island feel. If you are looking for some nightlife, this is probably your best bet.
We only experienced 3 beaches in our quest but it is possible to explore this coast for days looking for secret little bays and local favourites. Go on, do yourself a favour, it’s a treat.
Resources
Our home base as mentioned above was Weligama Bay Eco Resort. For latest prices or to book your accommodation click here.
It is a fantastic place with super comfortable accommodation. Convenient. The most incredibly designed bathrooms.
Helpful hints
- A great find in Weligama was AVM Cream House. Every imaginable fresh fruit juice, shake and float. Great value for money and tasty meals too.
- Fujisan Restaurant on Weligama Bay is great place to get food day or night.
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