🏰 Galle Fort
A 17th-century colonial fort by the ocean: a lighthouse, ramparts, boutiques and cafés. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Insider tip: Walk the ramparts at sunset: that's when locals come out too, playing cricket and flying kites.
🌊 South Coast
11 places · Sri Lanka
What to see
🏖 Unawatuna Beach
A sheltered bay with calm water, one of the few beaches in the south where even beginners can swim comfortably.
Insider tip: Right next door is Jungle Beach: a tiny cove you reach on a path through the jungle.
🐋 Whale Watching in Mirissa
Head out to sea at dawn to spot blue whales and dolphins.
Time: Season: roughly November to April
Insider tip: Take a seasickness pill beforehand, and choose an operator with good reviews for treating the whales responsibly.
🌴 Coconut Tree Hill
That palm-covered hill above the ocean you've seen in every Sri Lanka Instagram post.
Insider tip: Come at sunrise or an hour before sunset: midday is hot and crowded.
🎣 Stilt Fishermen
Fishermen perched on poles out in the surf, the classic image of the island's south.
Insider tip: These days they usually ask for money for photos, so agree on the amount first.
🏄 Ahangama
The south coast's trendiest spot: beginner-friendly surf breaks, design-led cafés and villas, and a laid-back vibe.
Insider tip: Want to learn to surf? Book your lesson in the morning, when the waves are gentle.
🐚 Hiriketiya Bay
A horseshoe bay with a surf break and cafés tucked into the jungle.
🔒 Secret spot: details and the map pin are in the full guide
🤫 Secret Beach
A hidden cove near Mirissa that the package tours don't mention.
🔒 Secret spot: details and the map pin are in the full guide
🐘 Udawalawe Safari
Hundreds of wild elephants, almost guaranteed.
🔒 Secret spot: details and the map pin are in the full guide
🐆 Yala Safari
One of the highest leopard densities in the world, plus elephants, crocodiles and sloth bears.
🔒 Secret spot: details and the map pin are in the full guide
🏄 Arugam Bay
The east coast surf capital: when the south is stormy, it is high season here.
🔒 Secret spot: details and the map pin are in the full guide
All of Sri Lanka
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