Listly by Joanna James
Mirissa is a small town on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. In the recent years, Mirissa has transformed into one of the most popular tourist destinations and known for its beach and nightlife. It boasts of an amazing sunset, beachside bars, and restaurants with a variety of seafood delights. The setting is a perfect holiday getaway with simple yet fascinating things to do. Here are 10 best things to do in Mirissa.
Over the years, Mirissa has become one of the main whale and dolphin watching destinations in the country. It's best to go early in the morning as tours last about 4-5 hours. Most boat companies offer an informative and friendly service. There's nothing more compelling than observing playful dolphins and the giants of the ocean, in their natural habitat.
One of the known features of a stay in Mirissa is its beach. Sit back and soak up in the vast blue ocean. Or just lay down for a perfect tan. The evenings are a delight as you get to witness a stunning sunset.
Most of the well-known hotels in Mirissa are located along the beach promising an excellent view and set in tranquil atmospheres with comforts that are in demand for an ideal beach getaway. You could take a look at a property like Shri Sharavi Beach Villas & Spa, a wholesome treat for what you seek.
Mirissa was known for its beachside bars and mini food outlets along the coast. Even though most of the structures were removed by local authorities, a few well-known places for local Sri Lankan delicacies and sea food are still intact. There are a handful of restaurants with local and international dishes to pick and chose as well.
A beach getaway is never complete without a good massage. Mirissa is home to a large number of Spas where you can get yourself pampered by professionally trained masseurs. You can easily find a spa within the confines of your hotel or the area itself. Make sure to get a good recommendation on the place before you visit.
There are plenty of places that offer scuba diving refresher sessions or rent out diving and snorkeling gear. You can get to see quite a lot of sea life filled with reefs, rock formations, colourful tropical fish and sea turtles.
A visit to the 'Garanduwa' lake gives you a perfect closure to the day. The trip takes about 10 minutes off the main road. This incredibly tranquil journey includes an enjoyable boat ride away from the busy beaches. Enjoy the cinnamon teas and the 'coconut rotties' served on board. Connect with nature and experience bats fly over the lake in the evening.
Mirissa is the largest fishing port on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Butterfish, tuna, snappers, and mullet fish are a common catch. You can ask one of the boat companies in Mirissa to help you get a memorable saltwater fishing experience.
Now we do agree that there are loads of people looking out to have a good time at the beach. Beach parties are quite a natural occurrence in Mirissa. Look out for the skylights, fireworks and music.
Every beach in Sri Lanka has its own uniqueness. Mirissa is not alone in the long coastline of southern beaches. It's sandwiched between its neighbours Weligama and Matara, which are homes to serene beaches and plenty of things to do and see.
Mirissa is pretty much a small town. You can always opt to take a walk and explore the beaches (including the secret beach, hidden away a few miles off-road), local life, and diverse kinds of food and indulge in some souvenir shopping.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.