Unawatuna beach
Unawatuna, often hailed as the finest beach in Sri Lanka, has even been named the world's best beach by the Discovery Channel. Nestled approximately 5 km from the historic Galle Fort in the south, this idyllic lagoon offers the perfect blend of serene beach relaxation and cultural exploration with its proximity to a wealth of attractions.
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Beach description
Discover the serene beauty of Unawatuna Beach, a natural aquamarine pool with a gently sloping golden shore that beckons both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors. Enclosed by capes on either side and shielded by coral reefs from the sea, Unawatuna offers a tranquil and peaceful retreat.
The secluded path, winding through coconut palms, provides a respite from the bustle of the highway. Despite its tranquility, Unawatuna is easily accessible. Stroll past the myriad of small shops, cafes, and snack bars that line the way, offering a taste of local flavor and charm.
Unawatuna attracts a diverse crowd of "wild" tourists, mirroring the untamed nature of the beach itself. During peak season, the beach comes alive with families, solo adventurers, and couples all seeking to bask in its splendor. The swimming conditions are ideal - safe with a smooth, sandy descent and devoid of strong currents.
While you won't find opulent hotels or fine dining on the beachfront, essential amenities are readily available:
- Shower and toilet facilities are provided for your convenience.
- Umbrellas and sunbeds are available for rent at numerous cafes.
- A variety of water sports and activities await your participation.
- Themed parties are a regular occurrence, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
- Indulge in swimming, surfing, yoga, beach tennis, culinary classes, or simply enjoy a cold beer or a coconut with a straw.
The underwater realm is a treasure trove for explorers equipped with snorkels or scuba gear. Marvel at sea turtles, moray eels, sharks, blue whales, and a plethora of smaller marine life. Those preferring to stay dry can still witness the tropical sea life through the glass bottoms of boats, as they glide over the nearby coral reefs.
Unawatuna is the epitome of a leisurely getaway. Whether you choose to lounge on a sunbed with a cocktail in hand or clamber over beachside boulders to let the tide caress you, the beach is a sanctuary for contemplation, especially during the mesmerizing sunsets, all to the soundtrack of the ocean's eternal whispers.
Best Time to Visit Unawatuna Beach
The best time to visit Sri Lanka for a beach vacation largely depends on which part of the island you're planning to explore. Sri Lanka's beaches are at their best during two distinct periods, thanks to the island's two monsoon seasons affecting opposite coasts at different times of the year.
- West and South Coasts: The ideal time to visit beaches on the west and south coasts is from November to April. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, providing perfect conditions for beach activities and relaxation. Destinations like Galle, Hikkaduwa, and Bentota are particularly enjoyable.
- East Coast: For the east coast beaches, such as Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, and Passikudah, the best time is between May to September. This period avoids the Yala monsoon, which affects the southwest of the island, ensuring that visitors to the east coast can enjoy clear skies and calm seas.
Regardless of the coast, it's always advisable to check the weather forecast and local advice as climate patterns can vary. By choosing the right time for your visit, you'll be rewarded with Sri Lanka's stunning beaches at their most inviting.
Video: Beach Unawatuna
Infrastructure
Unawatuna, nestled among jungles and coconut groves, remains a haven untouched by civilization. While there are no sprawling tourist complexes or supermarkets, visitors can find comfort in cozy hotels and guest houses, savor meals at affordable nearby restaurants and cafes, and purchase souvenirs from local shops and jewelry stores.
Near the hotels, local merchants can often be heard offering auto rickshaw rides, tours, and an array of products, including marijuana. For those who appreciate Ayurvedic massage and spa treatments, numerous opportunities await.
From the terraces of the Flower Garden Hotel, a 3-star establishment with the feel of a 4-star, guests can observe monkeys in their natural habitat. The hotel offers suites within a two-story building, set amidst a garden of vibrant flowers and palms, providing a tranquil escape from road noise. The property is well-guarded, suites are cleaned daily, and the cuisine is exceptional. Each of the two swimming pools includes a children's area. Weary travelers can unwind in a spacious hot tub, and the suites come equipped with all the essentials for making tea or coffee. Here, chipmunks and monitor lizards are a common sight, and bats may feast on unattended fruit at night. Currency exchange services are available at the reception.
Evening entertainment may be limited to dining at a beachside restaurant, as there is a lack of variety in activities. However, some establishments host open-air movie nights, with films often shown in the Russian language.
Gastronomic tourists will delight in a wide selection of seafood, including various fish and crabs. The blue marlin or tuna steak come highly recommended for their exquisite taste.
A 10-minute auto rickshaw journey to Galle is a mere 200 rupees. The local fish market brims with fresh seafood, such as the tantalizing, aromatic shrimps. The supermarket stocks a comprehensive range of items, except for alcohol. Moreover, an abundance of fruit is available for purchase in Unawatuna, ensuring you need not venture elsewhere.
Weather in Unawatuna
Best hotels of Unawatuna
All hotels of UnawatunaUseful information
- The road from Colombo Airport to Galle takes about 3 hours via a lively road in a crowded bus or a much more comfortable rented car.
- You can visit Unawatuna any time of year. The best period is from August till September. It's frequently raining in Autumn and Winter here.
- You will need to wear slippers if you decide to explore the jungles or boulders on the beach.
- If you give money to beggars, it'll be hard to get away from them.
Where to visit:
- Jungle Beach, accessible by boat from Unawatuna.
- The ancient stone Buddhist temple Yatagala Rejamaha Viharaya.
- The tropical Sinharaja forest in Galle district (covers almost 100 km2).
- Dutch Galle Fort.
- Koggala Lake and its islands with unique ecosystem.
- Turtle nursery.
- Canoe tours along old channels and lagoons.