John Wick Mattingson
Unawatuna's coastline is word famous and attracts hundreds of visitors every year. However, there's more to do here than catching rays. Check out below for great ideas the next time you visit.
Unawatuna has a fair share of water sports on offer for those interested, with surfing and diving being the most prominent. The surf conditions in Unawatuna are ideal for beginners since the waves aren't as rough as they used to be a few years ago. You can generally find a local instructor near any of the Unawatuna Hotels or if you're experienced enough to brave the waves on your own just ask one of the many local surfers where the best surfing spots are. For the budding divers and snorkelers, colourful live coral reefs, a variety of tropical fishes, turtles and even a few shipwrecks lie under the blue waters off the coastline. For the more experienced divers, there are a few big shipwrecks and underwater caves between Unawatuna and Galle.
Soft white sands, clear blue waters and glorious sunsets make the perfect setting for long walks on the beach with your significant other. Almost all the big luxury hotels like CoCo Bay Unawatuna, are located right on the beach so you only have to step out of your room to take in the beauty of the coast. Unawatuna has also become known for its beach parties so don't be surprised to turn a corner and stumble across partygoers dancing to thumping beats. A short taxi ride away is the more secluded Jungle Beach and while it's not as quiet as it used to be; Jungle Beach offers visitors an alternative from the busier strip.
The south-west of the island is rich in biodiversity and Unawatuna is no different. Bird watchers can enjoy the beauty and grace of over sixty species of endemic birds including Egrets, Herons, Sandpipers and Kingfishers and many more that have been spotted in the area. For the avid adventurer, take a hike up through the Rumassala forest, home to several indigenous plants and animals and make your way up to the peak for a stunning view of the southern coastline. Turtles can be found in the nearby towns of Hikkaduwa and Koggala, as they make their annual journey on to the shore to lay their eggs. Be sure to check with local experts to find out the nest times to see the turtles.
A short taxi ride away from Unawatuna lays the majestic Galle Fort. Built by Portuguese invaders in the 15th century and then heavily fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century, the Gale Fort, also known as the Dutch Fort, is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overlooking a natural harbour, the fort is home to a multi-ethnic community and various boutique hotels that preserve the careful balance between cultural heritage and modern services through eco-tourism.
Several heritage monuments are located inside the fort including the Dutch Reformed Church, National Maritime Museum, the Old Dutch Hospital, the Meera Mosque, the Clock Tower and the Galle Lighthouse to name a few.
