What Are The Things To Do In Arugam Bay? Know Why A Visit To Arugam Bay Is Worth It

BY  Sibashree Jun 1, 2026

The southern coast of Sri Lanka is the perfect relaxing getaway with golden sands, a vibrant local life, and a rich colonial heritage.  Be it the surfing paradise of the Hiriketiya Beach or the whale-watching hotspot, Mirissa, the southern coast is the most happening.  You can add to that the world-class culinary scene, the palm-fringed shorelines, and a laid-back bohemian energy.  Also, if you are looking for the combination of all these in a single spot, Unawatuna is the place to visit.  It has beginner-friendly waves, a deep colonial history, and a beachfront with a swinging rope.  In this article, I will discuss the best things to do in Unawatuna, top accommodation recommendations, and practical logistics to help you maximize your time in this tropical haven. Where To Stay In Unawatuna?  Unawatuna, being one of the premier beach destinations in Sri Lanka, has an excellent range of accommodations.  The accommodations here range from rustic, budget-friendly hostels to high-end luxury boutiques. Epic Unawatuna Epic Unawatuna, with its beautiful rustic charm, shows a heavy influence of the Dutch colonial architecture.  Furthermore, it offers air-conditioned rooms and exceptionally friendly staff.  Also, it is very close to the beach. Kingfisher Unawatuna It is an amazing beachfront hotel that has spacious rooms and large beds. Furthermore, it is on a quiet beachfront ideal for swimming.  Furthermore, it has an excellent in-house restaurant that is famous for serving top-notch, fresh seafood. What Are The Things To Do In Unawatuna With Family?  The Unawatuna Beach is at the epicenter of the attractions in Unawatuna. From exploring this beach to a day trip to Galle Fort, a lot of activities await you here.  1. Unwinding At Unawatuna Beach  Unawatuna Beach, with its golden sand, is one of the most popular beaches in Sri Lanka.  Furthermore, thanks to the protection of the offshore reef, the water here remains safe and calm. So, swimming here is safe throughout the year.  Moreover, in the daytime, you can rent a sunbed here, enjoy fresh coconut water, and enjoy the view.  At night, the beach gets transformed into a happening zone. The social scene here allows you to enjoy music, fresh seafood barbecues, and sunset cocktails right on the water's edge. 2. Dining At Bedspace Kitchen  After spending the evening at the beach, you can dine at Bedspace Kitchen. Which is in a tranquil garden oasis very close to the main road. It serves the best fusion cuisine, and it sources organic and fresh ingredients from local producers. So, by dining here, you can support the local community.  You must try the black pork curry and the gourmet burger. Its other specialties include fragrant coconut lemongrass soup and pumpkin gnocchi.  However, it has limited seats and remains quite crowded. So, you must book a table here in advance.  3. Witness The Iconic Stilt Fishermen Of Koggala At a distance of 10 minutes from Unawatuna Beach, along the coastal road toward Mirissa Beach, you will find Koggala.  South of Unawatuna, Koggala is the place to see one of the most striking cultural traditions of Sri Lanka, Stilt Fishing.  Here, fishermen use a traditional method to catch the fish. They balance atop a crossbar tied to a wooden pole driven deep into the reef, patiently waiting to catch small fish. The 2004 tsunami has altered the shoreline and made traditional fishing very difficult. However, the fishermen are still following this practice.  Many locals now rent their family stilts to men who pose for photographers to earn a livelihood. For visiting the Koggala Beach from Unawatuna and photography, the pocket pinch will be around 500 LKR.  4. Fall In Love With Dalawella Beach  Dalawella Beach, very close to Unawatuna, has low-bending coconut trees, dramatic rock formations, and a beautiful shoreline.  The rope swing here is a rage on Instagram, and it is one of the most popular photo spots along with the Nine Arch Railway Bridge in Sri Lanka.  Moreover, it is less crowded than Unawatuna.  5. Support Conservation At The Habaraduwa Sea Turtle Hatchery Sea turtles are frequent in the coastal waters of Sri Lanka. At the Habaraduwa Sea Turtle Hatchery, you will find rare species such as: Green Turtles Hawksbill Loggerhead Olive Ridley Leatherback Turtles. The hatchery is a non-profit organization that works toward protecting these majestic creatures.  The volunteers here rescue injured turtles caught in fishing nets and treat them. They also purchase eggs from local poachers to ensure they can hatch safely away from predators.  Moreover, once hatched, the baby turtles are nurtured for up to four days before being safely released into the ocean water. 6. Take A Day Trip To Galle Fort Galle Fort is just a tuk-tuk ride of 15 minutes from Unawatuna. It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Portuguese constructed it originally, and then extensive fortification happened in 1663 by the Dutch.  So, when you step here, it feels like traveling back to the Colonial Era.  Moreover, the fort here is an architectural marvel.  It has centuries-old Dutch villas, grand churches, and narrow cobblestone streets lined with trendy contemporary boutiques, art galleries, and upscale cafes. Moreover, the fort is an architectural marvel, featuring centuries-old Dutch villas, grand churches, and narrow cobblestone streets lined with trendy contemporary boutiques, art galleries, and upscale cafes. Also, the must-see attractions here are: The Galle Lighthouse Dutch Reformed Church Outer Stone Ramparts.  7. Learn To Surf At Bona Vista Bay While the Weligama Beach, Arugam Bay, and Mirissa Beach are more famous for world-class breaks, Bona Vista Bay is suitable for beginners.  It is a sheltered cove between Unawatuna and Galle. The waves here are gentle, and you will find many local surf schools on the beachfront offering certified instructors and affordable board rentals. Moreover, the surf lesson cost here is 2000-3000 LKR, and the board rental cost is between 300 and 500 LKR per hour.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Unawatuna? October to April, or the local dry season, is the best time to visit Unawatuna. However, February to April is the peak tourist season here.  During these months, the sea is calm, and the clear skies here make the time ideal for exploring.  From May to September, Unawatuna faces high rainfall and rough seas. Also, many businesses remain closed temporarily in these months.  How To Reach Unawatuna?  You can reach the southwestern coast of Unawatuna via different modes of transportation.  By Train A train ride through the southwestern coast offers the most affordable and scenic train ride. It is well connected by the Colombo Fort to Matara Railway Station, and Galle Fort Station is where you need to get down.  Also, from Galle Fort, you can take a tuk-tuk ride for 15 minutes, and it will cost around LKR 320.  By Bus  You can hop on a local coastal bus to reach Unawatuna from nearby beach towns such as Mirissa or Hikkaduwa.  Moreover, the bus ticket price is around 50 LKR, and a bus ride offers the most authentic cultural experience.  You will also get a bus from the Maharagama Bus Station, which is just 15 km south of Colombo City Center.  Here, the bus ride will take around 2 hours, and you will love the highway journey in a luxury AC bus.

BY  Sibashree Jun 24, 2026

Puttalam grabbed everyone’s attention with the sudden visibility of a mysterious object with a length of several feet in the sky.  There were speculations about the object being a missile, rocket, or meteor shower.  A few months ago, on 15th December, 2025, the Geminid meteor shower was clearly visible in the sky.  However, these are not one-off instances. I could clearly see the Milky Way in Puttalam Sri Lanka, in the month of April.  Furthermore, the wilderness surroundings, remote areas such as Eluwankulama, and a relatively flat topography on the southwestern coast, make Puttalam one of the chosen places of stargazing in Sri Lanka.  But beyond the stargazing excitements, Puttalam, Sri Lanka, bears a rich history, exudes serene coastal beauty, and has a colonial heritage.  In this article, I will talk about my days in Puttalam so that you know that coastal beauty better.  Where Is Puttalam? Known for massive coconut production, prawn farming, and salt production, Puttalam town is the capital of the Puttalam district.  It is on the shore of the Puttalam lagoon, the second largest lagoon in the country.  The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is now encouraging the most sustainable use of the lagoon resources.  Thus, they are supporting the exploration of new ecosystems here for better fisheries management. Here is an excerpt from a report published by IUCN on 4th April, 2025.  “With 88 fishing villages and approximately 165,000 people dependent on it, fisheries in Puttalam have been identified by its residents as their most important ecosystem service, particularly for women, who participate in bivalve gleaning and other post-harvest livelihoods. The lagoon is an important area for endangered species, such as green sea turtles and dolphins, and contains ecosystems vital for its health, such as seagrass and mangroves.  Tourism is also important in the Lagoon, which hosts seasonal aquatic sports and has year-round visitors to its islands.  The islands additionally have cultural importance as they are connected to local religious values.” Moreover, Puttalam has the Indian Ocean on the west, and it is the gateway to the Kalpitiya peninsula and Wilpattu National Park. How To Reach Puttalam Sri Lanka? Puttam is located around 130 km north of Colombo. It is also located at a distance of close to 95 km from Nogombo.  Furthermore, it is well-connected to Colombo and other major cities/hubs of the country through the Puttalam Railway Line and A3, A10, and A12 highways.  By Train  The train travel from Colombo Fort to Puttalam takes between 3 hours and 45 minutes and 5 hours.  Moreover, the ticket price will be between LKR 250 and LKR 1550 (Source: the Department of Railways. Sri Lanka. By Bus  Also, you can take a bus from the Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal in Colombo and travel to Puttalam with a stopover in Anuradhapura.  You can even take the direct 87/816 buses. They cover the distance within around 4 to 4.5 hours, and the regular, non-AC bus tickets cost between LKR 500 and LKR 800.  What Is The History Of Puttalam Sri Lanka? Puttalam in Sri Lanka today stands out with its multicultural identity. Here, you will find a fusion of Sinhalese, Sri Lankan Moors, and Tamil cultures, which have lived for generations.  Furthermore, as a commercial and administrative center, it supports diverse activities such as prawn farming, shallow sea fishing, and salt production.  However, this town on the northwestern coast of Sri Lanka has a history spanning 10000 years.  Located on the large Puttalam Lagoon, it has been a maritime trade hub, a center for the colonial spice and coconut industries, and has an enduring and culturally diverse population. Here, I have broken the history of this coastal town into three sections.  Ancient Roots And Indigenous Beginnings The archaeological evidence of the locality shows that human settlements started here 75000-125000 years ago.  Prince Vijaya, 6th century B.C., chose it as the landing site, and thus the Sinhalese lineage started here.  Medieval Trade And Arab Influence  During the medieval period, Puttalam became a major location for maritime trade.  Arab merchants, who established deep roots in the region, laid the foundation for the prominent Moorish population in the area.  Furthermore, the name Puttalam comes from the Tamil word Puthu-kulam. Puthu-kulam means "new tank" or "new pond.” Thus, it indicated the vital irrigation tanks that sustained early agricultural settlements.   The Colonial Era  Many European powers wanted to control the lucrative trade routes of Puttalam because of its natural resources and coastal position.  The Potuguese was the forest to build a built a strategic fort in Puttalam to secure the region and monitor trade in the 16th century.  Then, in the 17th and 18th centuries, the Dutch came. They captured and significantly expanded the Portuguese fortress. Furthermore, during these times, Puttalam became a central transit point for the highly profitable cinnamon trade and salt production within the lagoon. In addition, in the 19th and 20th centuries, the British came to power.  They used the fertile soil of the region for the expansion of the coconut industry. Thus, Puttalam became one of the most critical sources of copra and coconut products in the island.  A Quick Summary Of The History Of Puttalam  Era/PeriodKey Historical Developments and MilestonesOver 10,000 years agoEarly human settlements established, supported by archaeological evidence.Medieval Period- Puttalam became a pivotal west-coast maritime trade hub.- Arab merchants settled, forming the roots of the Sri Lankan Moor community.- Named Puthu-kulam ("new tank/pond") after vital local irrigation tanks.Portuguese Rule(16th Century)A strategic coastal fort was constructed to monitor trade and secure the region.Dutch Rule (17th and 18th Centuries)- Captured and expanded the Portuguese fortress.- Transformed the town into a transit hub for cinnamon and lagoon salt production.British Rule (19th and 20th Centuries)- Developed agricultural infrastructure.- Oversaw rapid expansion of the coconut industry, making it a top source for copra. Why Is Puttalam Famous? Puttalam is famous for its historical ruins, religious centers, and natural attractions. You cannot miss the following attractions. 1. Munneswaram Hindu Temple The Munneswaram Hindu Temple is one of the five historic coastal temples of Lord Shiva in Sri Lanka.  The history of the temple goes back to at least 1000 CE.  Moreover, it is associated with the stories of the Ramayana.  Also, it is a unique spiritual hub where Buddhists and Hindus unite.  2. St Anne’s Church St. Anne’s Church is along the coastline of Thalawila. It has a peaceful ambiance.  Also, it dates back to the Portuguese era.  It serves as a monumental pilgrimage site. Furthermore, it draws hundreds of thousands of believers from across the island for its grand annual feast in July. 3. Alankuda Beach The Alankuda Beach has a tranquil stretch of golden sand, and it is known for dolphin and whale watching excursions.  Located in Kalpitiya, it is a premier eco-tourism destination, highly favored by adventure travelers for thrilling water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. 4. Hatthikuchchi Viharaya Tucked away in a peaceful forest landscape, this 3rd-century BCE Buddhist monastic complex is famous for a massive rock formation that resembles an elephant's stomach.  It is highly revered as the legendary sanctuary where the pious, exiled King Sirisangabo self-sacrificially gave up his own head to assist a poor peasant. 5. Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary This Ramsar-designated site is an important landmark for ecotourism in Sri Lanka.  It has a historic human-made system of interconnected freshwater tanks crashing right against a coastal lagoon. Furthermore, it is an irreplaceable, thriving sanctuary for thousands of native and migratory birds. 6. Puttalam Lagoon The Puttalam Lagoon, spanning an area of 32,700 hectares, is the second-largest backwater body in the country.  It has calm waters, and it is an ideal hub for small-scale prawn harvesting, wildlife viewing, and kite surfing.  7. Puttalam Station The colonial rulers of Puttalam opened the railway station officially on 12th May 1926.  Today, it is a state-run railway station and attracts many visitors due to its colonial charm and surrounding scenic beauty.  8. Yapahuwa Built by King Buwanekabahu, Yapahuwa was the royal residence in the 13th century.  Today, you will get to see the remains of this royal palace. I was especially mesmerized to see the ornate staircase.  9. Chilaw  Chilaw, located a few kilometers south of Puttalam, is a small town that stands out because of its religious harmony.  People from various traditions, backgrounds, and religions live here.  Furthermore, the beach here offers a calm and relaxing ambiance and the fishing villages here give you insights into the local way of living life.  What Are The Things To Do In Puttalam?  While Puttalam has the most tranquil vibe, it is also the hub of most adventurous activities, such as kite surfing, bar reef snorkeling, and wildlife safaris.  1. Kite Surfing In Kalpitiya  Kalpitiya is a global kite surfing hub. It has consistent wind conditions for over nine months of the year.  Furthermore, the flat-water lagoons here offer a safe space for learning. On the other hand, the ocean waves here challenge the advanced riders.  Also, the Margarita Kite School is the best name in kite surfing training in Kalpitiya today. It trains tourists and locals with the latest equipment.  Moreover, the downwind trips here are epic. You can glide across pristine, uninhabited islands and sandbars dotting the massive lagoon. 2. Dolphin Watching  I could spot hundreds of playful dolphins gathering in spectacular groups just off the Kalpitiya coast.  November to April is the best season to spot these adorable animals as the water remains calm.  Also, local guides follow strict conservation guidelines to protect the natural habitat of mammals. So, you have to follow responsible tourism practices.  3. Diving Puttalam has a diverse marine life. So, you can explore vibrant ecosystems teeming with sea turtles, reef sharks, and manta rays.  It also has historic shipwreck sites where fascinating sunken vessels are wrapped in colorful soft coral colonies. Furthermore, warm waters offer crystal-clear viewing conditions during the calm winter diving months. In addition, when you descend along deep underwater cliffs that host a spectacular variety of macro life. 4. Wildlife Safari At Wilpattu National Park The Wilpattu National Park has villus or natural rainwater lakes. It is famous for its high density of leopard population.  Furthermore, here, you can spot elusive sloth bears, wild elephants, crocodiles, and colorful endemic jungle birds. So, the jeep tour on the rugged off-road tracks was immersive. It cost me around LKR 16000.  5. Bar Reef Snorkeling  Here, you will find the most beautiful coral sanctuary of Sri Lanka.  Also, here, you can swim alongside brightly colored butterflyfish, giant parrotfish, and harmless blacktip reef sharks. Furthermore, you will marvel at delicate, healthy formations of brain and staghorn corals just below the surface. In addition, you can take short boat rides from the mainland to reach these shallow swimming areas.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Puttalam Sri Lanka? January to March and May to September are the best times to visit Puttalam. The dry and sunny weather conditions in the month are ideal for coastal kitesurfing in Kalpitiya, whale watching, and leopard safaris in the nearby Wilpattu National Park.

BY  Sibashree Jun 1, 2026

Mirissa Beach has been one of the most sought-after destinations if you want to explore the south coastal lifestyle of Sri Lanka.  You can enjoy Mirissa with salt on your skin and a cold Lion beer in your hand. Furthermore, it is one of the most magical places to watch the sunset in Sri Lanka.  It initially started as a sleepy surf stopover, and then it had a handful of guesthouses and beach shacks.  Today, it is a small tourist town that buzzes with smoothie bowls, boutique stays, and a skyline that now brushes the palms. During my first visit to Sri Lanka, Mirissa, still pristine, was the place to track tides and enjoy rice and curry for lunch. The beer and BBQ culture after dark was still an occasion.  Also, as a backpacker, a family guesthouse near the Matara Highway was the accommodation I could manage at that time.  However, today, Mirissa has changed. Despite the same south-coastal rhythm, the pace of life here has become faster and the accommodations smarter.  So, here is a practical guide on where to stay in Mirissa.  Where To Stay In Mirissa? My Quick Picks  Before I get into the details about where to stay in Mirissa, here is my quick sneak peek into the top picks.  Top PickMirissa Beach VillaBest ValueD Canal HouseTop VillaVilla Vista, Mirissa Best for FamiliesCasa MariaBudget OptionBanana Bunks Where To Stay In Mirissa? A Detailed Overview  Based on the kind of experience you want, these are the best places to stay in Mirissa. I have picked them based on the pricing, amenities, and overall hospitality.  1. Mirissa Beach Villa ( My Top Pick) The Mirissa Beach Villa is a testament to the quintessential slow living style of the southern coast of Sri Lanka.  It has a white-washed facade and arched verandas. Furthermore, its classy interiors have hand-crafted teak furniture, soft linens, and splashes of tropical color. So, the moment you step in, you experience the warmth. Furthermore, the Mirissa Beach Villa never feels pretentious despite its elegance.  Furthermore, it has six bedrooms that are open terraces. Some of them face the Indian Ocean, and some the garden.  You can also enjoy your time in the dreamy infinity pool here.  2. D Canal House: The Best Value Option  D Canal House is stylish and peaceful. Furthermore, it is more personalized than other stays in Mirissa.  Also, it feels like a tropical hideaway in comparison to a hotel. Furthermore, it is surrounded by waterways and coconut palms.  Another great thing is that you can take just a short walk from D Canal House, and you will reach Mirissa Beach.  Along with its closeness to nature, D Canal House also boasts typical Sri Lankan artistry.  The whitewashed walls, terracotta floors, and bursts of local color in the form of handwoven textiles and painted tiles! Everything here is very local!  Moreover, D Canal House has rooms and bungalows, and each has its own verandah overlooking the canal and the garden.  In addition, the saltwater pool is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon. 3. Villa Vista Mirissa: The Best Villa Experience You Want Villa Vista is perched high above Weligama Bay. It is a multi-level sanctuary with a polished concrete, timber, and glass structure.  It opens to the sea and the jungle.  Furthermore, Villa Vista is a part of The Serendipity Collection, offering the promised privacy.  Also, the suits in Villa Vista are minimalist, and the open-plan living spaces are airy. Moreover, it has an infinity pool that is elevated above the palms.  Moreover, Villa Vista stands out because of the details it takes care of. The furnishings here are locally crafted, and the walls slide away to allow the salty air in.  In addition, it has a private chef and a concierge team taking care of all your requirements. You can even opt for optional in-villa spa treatments.   4. Casa Maria: The Best Place To Stay For Families   Casa Maria is bright, airy, and charming. The whitewashed facade of the hotel looks like a slice of coastal Europe translated into the southern coast of Sri Lanka.  The rooms here are simple, and that is what offers the maximum comfort. It has white linens, concrete floors, and wide verandas overlooking the jungle and the pool.  Moreover, it offers an aesthetic sense of space with three pools dotted around the property and plenty of quiet corners to unwind. Here, the family room is the best option. It is spacious, comfortable, and carefully designed for kids and parents who want a more relaxing experience without compromising the charm of a boutique hotel.  5. Banana Bunks, The Best Budget Option In Mirissa  Banana Bunks is a short walk away from the happening cafe scene of Mirissa. It is also very close to Coconut Hill.  Also, if you want to know where to stay in Mirissa on a budget, Banana Bunks is the place you must choose.  Here, the rooms have bright, earthy tones, and they are well-maintained. Furthermore, the beds here are comfortable, and the bathrooms are generous.  Furthermore, some of the rooms here have amenities such as outdoor bathtubs and open-air showers.  In addition, you will find leafy communal spaces, a small pool, and an easy connection to Petti Petti Club.  The Petti Petti Club is the beachfront sister spot of Banana Bunks, and it is one of the coolest places to hang out in Mirissa.  How Long Should You Stay In Mirissa? The duration of your stay in Mirissa will depend on your itinerary.  If you are planning a short trip, two nights are enough to explore the beach and enjoy the local cuisine and sunset scenes before heading to the Hiriketiya Beach, the fascinating Ella, and Udawalawe.  However, if you want to enjoy a slow traveling experience, you can plan a stay of 3 to 5 nights here and sink into the rhythm.  You can spend your time here enjoying surfing and whale watching. You will also love the long, lazy afternoons.