Joanna James
As one of Sri Lanka's finest beach hotspots, Tangalle offers visitors a plethora of exciting highlights and beautiful beaches. Here are some of the area's top attractions and beach hubs.
Tipped to be one of Tangalle's best-kept secrets, Goyambokka Beach is as spacious and peaceful as a secluded beach in Sri Lanka could be. Reached through a slender path with tropical forest landscapes on either side, the beach is both stunning as it is tranquil. The clean water and the beach's shallowness make it ideal for swimming activities. Rocks and pools are also part of the beach as natural elements have formed small bodies of water. Surrounded by coconut trees, the Goyambokka Beach is one of the less touristy beaches in Tangalle.
Occupying the pride of the place a mere 20 minutes away from the heart of Tangalle Town, the Hiriketiya Beach is another breathtaking beach hideaway for those in search of privacy and seclusion. Located in the bay which resembles a horseshoe in shape, Hiriketiya Beach is a firm favourite among seasoned tourists holidaying in Tangalle due to its sheer beauty and the clarity of the water. The beach is also famed among surfing enthusiasts as one of the best places to practice one's skills during the beginner stages of picking up the sport. Surfboards are available for rent near the beach and the waves in this part of Tangalle are big enough for beginners but not too big so as to overwhelm novices.
Located 10km away from the town area, Rekawa Beach is not only a pleasant beach hub for families but an ideal venue to engage in turtle watching activities. The best time to head down to Rekawa Beach is during the period from April to September when sea turtles arrive in large numbers of lay eggs on the shore. Turtle watching tours are organized by local tour operators and kick off at around 8 pm when tourists can accompany officials and volunteers of the town's Turtle Conservation Project to witness this natural occurrence. The experience lasts about 2 hours as turtles can take their time settling in the sand before laying their eggs and returning to the sea.
One of the main attractions in Tangalle is the Hummanaya Blow Hole. The subject of many a legend and controversy, the Hummanaya Blow Hole is conveniently located near the main road and holds the distinction of being the world's second-largest blowhole. With waters reaching up to heights of 98 feet in some instances, the natural phenomenon attracts visitors from far and wide. Thus named during the curious sound produced by the blowhole when water spurts upwards, the jets of seawater are especially strong during the monsoon period from May to November. Tourists must purchase tickets to witness this daily occurrence but the nominal fee is well worth the spectacle. Visitors based at Sri Lanka luxury resorts in the area including the Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort and countless others will find that the highlight is within close range of their accommodation provider.
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.
