Did you know that Unawatuna’s name comes from an ancient legend where a monkey dropped medicinal herbs into the ocean to save a dying king? This coastal gem on Sri Lanka’s southern shore has since transformed from a sleepy fishing village into one of the country’s most beloved beach destinations. With its crescent-shaped bay, palm-fringed beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Unawatuna offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure that keeps travelers coming back year after year.
Getting to Unawatuna & Planning Your Journey
The scenic coastal train journey is one of the most picturesque ways to reach Unawatuna
Reaching Unawatuna is relatively straightforward, with several options depending on your starting point. Most international travelers arrive via Bandaranaike International Airport near Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, located about 150 km (93 miles) north of Unawatuna.
From Colombo to Unawatuna
From Other Popular Destinations
Ready to start your Sri Lankan adventure?
Find the best flight deals to Colombo and begin your journey to Unawatuna’s paradise beaches.
Best Time to Visit Unawatuna
December to April offers perfect beach weather with sunny skies and calm seas
Unawatuna experiences two distinct seasons that significantly impact your travel experience. Understanding the weather patterns will help you plan the perfect visit to this coastal paradise.
| Season | Months | Weather | Pros | Cons |
| Dry Season (Best Time) | December to April | 27-32°C (81-90°F), sunny, minimal rain | Perfect beach weather, calm seas, all activities available | Higher prices, more crowded |
| Shoulder Season | October to November, May | 26-30°C (79-86°F), occasional showers | Fewer tourists, lower prices, still good weather | Unpredictable rain showers |
| Monsoon Season | June to September | 25-28°C (77-82°F), heavy rainfall, rough seas | Lowest prices, authentic local experience | Many businesses closed, limited activities, difficult swimming conditions |
Traveler’s Tip: February and March offer the perfect balance of excellent weather, slightly fewer crowds than December/January, and vibrant marine life for snorkeling and diving.
Getting Around Unawatuna
Colorful tuk-tuks are the most popular way to get around Unawatuna and nearby areas
Unawatuna is a relatively small beach town, making it easy to navigate. Most attractions within the town center are within walking distance, but you’ll want transportation options for exploring further afield.
Transportation Options
Explore Unawatuna at your own pace
Rent a car to discover hidden beaches, visit nearby attractions, and create your own adventure.
Where to Stay in Unawatuna
Beachfront accommodations offer stunning views and easy access to Unawatuna’s golden shores
Unawatuna offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style. From beachfront boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels tucked away in the jungle, you’ll find the perfect place to rest after a day of exploration.
Best Areas to Stay
Accommodation Options by Budget
Budget Options
Price range: $15-35 per night
Unawatuna has excellent budget options including hostels and guesthouses. Mr. Funk’s Hostel offers private rooms from $15 with a social atmosphere and group dinners. Bedspace Beach provides affordable rooms above the popular Skinny Tom’s Deli.
Mid-Range Options
Price range: $40-100 per night
Epic Unawatuna offers stylish rooms just 100m from the beach with exceptional service. Sergeant House provides a colonial-style setting with a peaceful garden and pool. Horizon Hill Top Villa features amazing views over the bay.
Luxury Options
Price range: $120+ per night
Apa Villa Thalpe features an infinity pool overlooking the beach. Agnus Unawatuna offers luxury accommodations perched on the hillside with incredible ocean views. Kingfisher Unawatuna provides spacious beachfront rooms with an excellent in-house restaurant.
Find your perfect stay in Unawatuna
From beachfront villas to jungle hideaways, book your accommodation now for the best rates.
Dining & Local Cuisine in Unawatuna
A traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry spread featuring local seafood specialties
Unawatuna’s food scene is a delightful mix of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and international options catering to the town’s diverse visitors. From beachfront seafood restaurants to hidden local eateries, the dining options are sure to satisfy every palate.
Must-Try Local Dishes
Top Restaurants in Unawatuna
Dining Tip: Many restaurants in Unawatuna are slightly more expensive than in other parts of Sri Lanka, but the quality and variety make it worth it. For budget options, look for local eateries away from the main beach area.
Best Beaches in Unawatuna
The iconic palm tree swing at Dalawella Beach is a favorite sunset spot
Unawatuna is blessed with several stunning beaches, each with its own unique character. From the bustling main beach to secluded coves, there’s a perfect stretch of sand for every type of beach lover.
Unawatuna Beach
The main beach of Unawatuna is a wide, golden-sand crescent bay lined with restaurants, bars, and hotels. It’s the most developed and accessible beach in the area, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying sunset drinks. The beach is protected by a reef, creating relatively calm swimming conditions during the dry season.
Dalawella Beach (Turtle Beach)
Located just south of the main beach, Dalawella Beach (also known as Turtle Beach or Wijaya Beach) is famous for its natural rock pool and resident sea turtles. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and turtle spotting. This beach is also home to the Instagram-famous palm tree swing at Dream Cabana guesthouse, where you can soar over the ocean for 500 LKR ($2.75).
Jungle Beach
True to its name, this secluded beach is tucked away behind a patch of coastal jungle. Reaching it requires a 30-minute hike through the forest, but the reward is a quieter, more pristine beach experience. Jungle Beach is actually split into two separate coves connected by a narrow path, with the second beach being more secluded and home to a small beach bar.
Heenwella Beach
A hidden gem often overlooked by tourists, Heenwella Beach offers a peaceful escape from the more crowded areas. Visit in the early morning to watch local fishermen begin their day, casting nets and preparing their boats. This authentic experience provides a glimpse into daily coastal life in Sri Lanka.
Experience Unawatuna’s beautiful beaches
Book a guided beach tour to discover hidden coves, spot sea turtles, and find the best swimming spots.
Top Attractions & Things to Do in Unawatuna
The Japanese Peace Pagoda offers panoramic views of Unawatuna’s coastline
Beyond its beautiful beaches, Unawatuna offers a variety of attractions and activities to enrich your Sri Lankan experience. From cultural sites to natural wonders, here are the best things to do in Unawatuna.
Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda
Perched on Rumassala Hill above Jungle Beach, this striking white stupa was built by Japanese Buddhist monks as part of a global initiative to promote peace. The minimalist design houses golden Buddha statues, and the circular walkway offers breathtaking panoramic views of Galle Bay and the surrounding coastline. It’s especially magical at sunset when the white structure glows in the golden light. Remember to dress respectfully when visiting this religious site.
Explore Galle Fort
Just 6 km (3.7 miles) from Unawatuna lies the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Dutch in 1663. This well-preserved colonial fortress features narrow streets lined with boutique shops, cafés, and restored buildings. Don’t miss the lighthouse, the Dutch Reformed Church, and a walk along the massive ramparts at sunset. A tuk-tuk from Unawatuna to Galle Fort costs around 500 LKR ($2.75), making it an easy half-day trip.
Swim with Turtles
The natural lagoon at Dalawella Beach is home to several resident sea turtles, offering a rare opportunity to swim alongside these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. Unlike organized turtle-watching tours, this organic experience allows you to observe turtles as they naturally feed and swim in the protected waters. The best times for turtle spotting are early morning or late afternoon when the beach is less crowded.
Visit a Turtle Hatchery
The Sea Turtle Hatchery in nearby Habaraduwa (about 7 km/4.3 miles from Unawatuna) is a conservation center dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtle species. Learn about the five turtle species found in Sri Lankan waters, see rescued turtles being rehabilitated, and if you’re lucky, witness baby turtles being released into the ocean. Entrance fee is 500 LKR ($2.75) per person.
Baby sea turtles being released at the Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery
Learn to Surf
While Unawatuna isn’t Sri Lanka’s premier surfing destination, Bona Vista Bay between Unawatuna and Galle offers gentle waves perfect for beginners. Surf lessons cost around 2,000-3,000 LKR ($11-16) per hour, with board rentals available for 300-500 LKR ($1.65-2.75) per hour. More experienced surfers might prefer the reef break at Dalawella Beach or consider day trips to Hikkaduwa or Weligama for better waves.
See the Stilt Fishermen
About 10 minutes north of Unawatuna in Koggala, you can observe the iconic stilt fishermen of Sri Lanka. This traditional fishing method involves perching on a pole fixed into the coral reef and patiently waiting to catch fish. While many of today’s stilt fishermen pose primarily for tourists (for around 500 LKR/$2.75), it’s still a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and makes for stunning photographs, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Discover the best of Unawatuna
Book guided tours and activities to make the most of your visit to this Sri Lankan paradise.
Cultural Experiences & Festivals
Traditional Kandyan dancers performing during a cultural festival
Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage through these authentic experiences and celebrations in and around Unawatuna.
Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya
Located about 8 km (5 miles) from Unawatuna, this ancient Buddhist temple dates back over 2,300 years. Built into natural rock formations, the temple features a large reclining Buddha statue, colorful murals, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the tourist crowds. Visit in the morning to see monks collecting alms and performing daily rituals.
Traditional Mask Making
Sri Lankan masks have been used in traditional dance, rituals, and as decorative items for centuries. Visit the nearby town of Ambalangoda (about 30 minutes from Unawatuna) to tour the Ariyapala Mask Museum and workshop, where you can learn about the cultural significance of different mask types and watch artisans craft them using traditional techniques.
Cooking Classes
Several restaurants and guesthouses in Unawatuna offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes. These typically include a market visit to select fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on preparation of dishes like coconut sambol, dhal curry, and hoppers. Prices range from 2,500-4,000 LKR ($14-22) per person.
Local Festivals
Outdoor Adventures & Nature Experiences
The vibrant coral reefs around Unawatuna offer excellent snorkeling opportunities
Unawatuna’s natural surroundings provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature and enjoy active adventures.
Snorkeling & Diving
The waters around Unawatuna feature coral reefs teeming with marine life. Jungle Beach and Dalawella Beach offer good snorkeling directly from shore, while diving centers organize boat trips to nearby reefs and shipwrecks. A guided snorkeling trip costs around 2,000-3,000 LKR ($11-16), while diving starts at about 6,000 LKR ($33) for a single dive with equipment.
Whale Watching
From November to April, the waters off southern Sri Lanka become a playground for blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins. While Mirissa is the main departure point for whale watching tours, many accommodations in Unawatuna can arrange transportation and booking. Early morning departures (around 6:30 AM) offer the best sightings and calmer seas.
Rumassala Sanctuary Hike
The forested hill behind Jungle Beach is part of the Rumassala Marine Sanctuary and offers several hiking trails through lush jungle. The main path leads to the Japanese Peace Pagoda, while other trails wind through the forest where you might spot monkeys, colorful birds, and monitor lizards. The hike takes 30-45 minutes and offers stunning views of the coastline.
Koggala Lake Safari
Just 15 minutes from Unawatuna, Koggala Lake offers boat safaris through mangrove forests and to small islands. Visit a cinnamon plantation, see traditional fishing methods, and spot diverse birdlife including kingfishers, herons, and eagles. A 2-hour boat tour costs approximately 2,500-3,500 LKR ($14-19) per boat.
Explore the mangrove ecosystems on a Koggala Lake boat safari
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Unawatuna is generally a safe destination for travelers, but being informed about local customs and safety considerations will enhance your experience.
Safety Tips
Cultural Etiquette
Important: While Unawatuna has a relaxed beach atmosphere, remember that Sri Lanka is predominantly a conservative country. Nude or topless sunbathing is not permitted on any beaches.
Practical Travel Tips
Local markets offer fresh tropical fruits, vegetables, and authentic Sri Lankan spices
Money & Costs
Connectivity & Services
Health & Wellness
Ready for your Unawatuna adventure?
Find the best deals on flights, accommodations, and activities to create your perfect Sri Lankan getaway.
Final Thoughts on Unawatuna
The magical sunsets of Unawatuna create unforgettable memories
Unawatuna perfectly captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s southern coast—a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and laid-back charm. Whether you’re swimming with turtles in crystal-clear waters, exploring the historic streets of Galle Fort, or simply watching the sun sink into the Indian Ocean from a beachside restaurant, Unawatuna offers experiences that linger in your memory long after you’ve left its golden shores.
What makes this coastal gem truly special is its ability to cater to all types of travelers. Adventure seekers can fill their days with surfing, snorkeling, and jungle hikes. Culture enthusiasts can explore ancient temples and colonial architecture. And those seeking relaxation can simply unwind on pristine beaches or indulge in Ayurvedic spa treatments.
As development continues along Sri Lanka’s coast, Unawatuna maintains a delicate balance between progress and preservation. The warm smiles of locals, the rhythm of waves against the shore, and the taste of freshly prepared seafood curry—these authentic experiences remain at the heart of Unawatuna’s appeal.
So pack your swimsuit, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to fall in love with this tropical paradise. Unawatuna isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that captures the very best of Sri Lanka in one perfect, palm-fringed package.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
