Joanna James
Galle and Unawatuna areas of Sri Lanka home to natural reefs offer safe swimming at many points along its coast. Here are top picks on this popular southern strip for safe sea bathing.
Bentota is just about an hour before Galle and quite popular for its wide expanse of beach. There plenty of water sports are on offer as well as a chance for one to bathe safely in the sea. December to April is deemed safe months for swimming around this vibrant resort town. However before you do decide to head into the sea off Bentota make sure the flags are up and a lifeguard is on duty before you hit the surf.
Hikkaduwa is a party central and well established surfer resort since the hippie boom of the 60's. The place is well known for its coral reefs and thriving marine life as well as about four popular surf spots. Less than 40 minutes to Galle the place has plenty of 'safe' swim locales that are surrounded by verdant coral reefs.
Unawatuna is just 5kms from Galle and one of the most popular beaches for swimming. Popularly known as Una this sleepy little village is home to a blow hole and the legendary Rumassala Hill. Visible to guests at Cantaloupe Levels Unawatuna Hotel this area is deemed safe for swimming since it is skirted by a large protective reef. Jungle Beach is also part of Unawatuna and reached via a small trek through verdant woodland. Ideal and loved by families the sea is very safe for bathing and offers one crystal clear waters to enjoy. If you are planning to stay in a hotel in Unawatuna, ensure to choose a place that boast lush jungle like surroundings that open onto the beach. It is a treat for anyone hankering for a touch of seaside adventure.
Less than an hour to Galle Ambalangoda is another seaside haven for safe bathing. The place has a well-known natural pool where even little kids can enjoy safe bathing in the sea. Shallow waters and plenty of rocky barriers keep these natural pools secluded from the rest of the ocean which at most times can be quite rough and unsafe for swimming.
The south coast of Sri Lanka is by far the most popular amongst sun worshipers; indeed this stretch leading up to Galle is a home to sandy stretches of beach which offer shallow waters for swimming. This being said it is always safe to go swimming where lifeguard flags are up and no red flags are flying. Be aware of seasons and avoid monsoon periods when winds are strong and surf is rough.
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