The South Coast of Sri Lanka is a laid back area with many small villages, towns & great beaches. Here the life seems to run slower than in the rest of the country. People arriving on the sea coast look for relaxing holidays, swimming in the warm ocean, sunbathing on paradisiac beaches and eating some great food. South Coast is also an ideal place for surfers and those wanting to try out this cool water sport. There are some amazing beach towns on the South Coast and this guide will tell you which one to choose for your Sri Lanka travels. Or maybe choose them all?

5 – Rekawa Beach and Kahandamodara Beach

Located just a short drive from Yala National Park and in between of two bigger cities: Habanatota and Tangalle, lies a heavenly beach. This area is the most important sea turtles nesting site in Sri Lanka. Stay at the wonderful, ecological, boutique hotel Seven Turtles. A lovely place constructed with nature conservation in mind.

How to get here

The easiest way is to get there is by taxi. However, we experienced first hand traveling by bus in Sri Lanka and its very easy and extremely cheap. Take a bus to Ranna town. From there a tuk-tuk to your hotel. 

↬ Note : We stayed only 1 night in Seven Turtles Hotel and we truly regret not staying longer. It’s a little gem hidden in one of the most beautiful and quiet places on the South Coast. 

4 – Mirissa

Mirissa fisherman village really has it all: the long white sand beaches, chilled vibe, great waves for surfers and beach-front restaurants serving delicious Sri Lankan dishes. It become a very popular tourist destination in the past years. It’s also the best base for whale watching trips that are happening here year round. The south coast of Sri Lanka lies next to one of the world’s greatest cetacean migratory route. 

↬ Read : Ethical Whale Watching in Mirissa – an Idyllic Palm-Fringed Town

3 – Unawatuna

The village of Unawatuna is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular resorts. It attracts visitors with charming, laid-back vibe and year-round swimming, as the bay is protected on both sides by land. The journey by train from the capital Colombo takes only 2h. There are many beautiful hotels and great restaurants located on its stunning white sand beach. Therefore, Unawatuna is a perfect place to stay for a few relaxing days at the end of your Sri Lanka trip. 

↬ Read : Unawatuna Guide – How to Spend a Few Relax Days

2 – Dalawella Beach- the Most Famous Palm Tree Swing

Traveling to Sri Lanka and not taking the famous rope swing picture would be such a loss! This super fun spot and swing is located just 3 km from Unawatuna next to Dream Cabana on Dalawella Beach. To know more about it read our Unawatuna post.

1 – Wijaya Beach and Turtle Spotting 

Wijaya beach is one of the most stunning beaches on the south coast of Sri Lanka. There is a small wave break, so you can swim in the calm waters most of the year. It’s also a great place to spot turtles! This was our favorite beach for its great lunch places & the cute turtles that are easy to spot there. ??!

↬ TIP : Combine your beach day with turtle spotting in Wijaya beach and having fun on the swing located just a short walk away on Dalawella Beach.