Unawatuna Beach

The Soul of Sri Lanka’s Southern Shore

📍 District: Galle | Province: Southern
🧭 Location: Approximately 5km southeast of Galle Fort and 125km from Colombo.

Introduction

Unawatuna is arguably Sri Lanka’s most famous beach town. Known for its crescent-shaped bay, turquoise waters, and golden sands, it has long been a sanctuary for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and a vibrant social scene. Protected by a dual reef, the bay offers some of the safest swimming on the southern coast. Beyond the shoreline, the town is a maze of narrow lanes filled with boutique cafes, yoga studios, and shops, all set against a backdrop of lush tropical greenery.

Top Attractions

The Main Bay: A bustling stretch of sand lined with beach bars and restaurants. It is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and enjoying the sunset with a cocktail.
Japanese Peace Pagoda: Perched on Rumassala Hill, this striking white stupa offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the coastline and Galle Fort.
Jungle Beach: A secluded, “hidden” cove accessible by a short hike through the Rumassala forest or a quick boat ride. It offers excellent snorkeling in calm, clear water.
Dalawella & Wijaya Beach: Famous for the “Palm Tree Swing” and the natural swimming pool formed by the reef, where sea turtles are often seen swimming close to shore.

Transportation

🚆 Rail

Trains from Colombo Fort to Matara stop at Unawatuna Station (2km from the beach) or the larger Galle Station (5km away).

🛣️ Road

The Southern Expressway makes the drive from Colombo Airport approximately 2 hours. Local buses and tuk-tuks connect Unawatuna to Galle every few minutes.

Where to Swim & Snorkel

Location	Best For…
Unawatuna Main Beach	Safe swimming (middle and south end) and beginner-friendly water sports.
Jungle Beach	Snorkeling with tropical fish and avoiding the main beach crowds.
Wijaya Beach	Wading in natural pools and spotting Green Sea Turtles in the wild.

💡 Pro-Traveler Tips

Turtle Spotting: To see turtles at Wijaya Beach, go early in the morning (around 7-8 AM). Remember never to touch or feed them.
Sunset Views: The best sunset spot is the Japanese Peace Pagoda or the rocks at the western end of Unawatuna Beach.
Stay Active: Unawatuna is a hub for fitness. Check out local gyms like Unawatuna Fitness Center or join a beachfront yoga class.
Avoid the Crowds: During the peak season (December–April), head to Jungle Beach or Mihiripenna Beach for a more tranquil experience.

Nearby Attractions

Galle Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site just 15 minutes away, famous for colonial architecture, boutiques, and history.
Koggala Lake: A peaceful inland lake known for boat safaris, birdwatching, and traditional cinnamon plantations.
Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery: A conservation center dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtle species.