Joanna James
Tipped to be among the best tourist hotspots to enjoy a whale-watching safari in Sri Lanka, Mirissa is no ordinary seaside hub for the masses. Offering visitors some of the most breathtaking beaches on the island, the marine life heritage just off the coast of Mirissa Beach makes it a dream destination for scuba divers and snorkellers as well. From timing the trip to finding the best whale watching tour operator, here are some guidelines on planning the ultimate holiday in Mirissa.
Unlike Sri Lanka's other beach resort towns, those who wish to enjoy a whale of a time in Mirissa must time their visit. As one of only two whale watching locations on the island, those who are planning a getaway to Mirissa must time their trip to coincide with the period when whales, dolphins and other marine creatures flock to the coast in large numbers. The official tourist season in Mirissa is from December to March and this period not only promises sunny skies and clear weather conditions but also whale sightings. This is also the busiest time of the year to visit Mirissa so budge travellers may want to tour the area during the offseason or the months of July and August when visitors are at an all-time low but the conditions are sunny. The only downside is that whale watching will not be possible during this period.
Tourists based in Tangalle or the island's capital Colombo will find that there are A/C and non A/C buses heading directly to Mirissa. This is by far the most affordable way to reach the beach town. Those who wish to take the scenic route can hop on a train bound for Matara or Weligama and travel the rest of the way via tuk-tuk or bus. Train tickets will cost more than bus fares especially if one chooses to travel first class. Taxi services are also available for those who would rather be driven to their final destination in style while rental vehicles are also accessible to those with an international driving license.
As in any beach area, not all villas in Mirissa are conveniently located nor do they all occupy a beachfront location as in the case of the Sri Sharavi Beach Villas & Spa. This is why it is crucial to find an accommodation provider that not only provides the creature comforts one expects of a modern hotel but also a strategic location. Access to water sports activities as well as whale watching departure points is other factors to consider when reserving a resort base.
As one of the island's top destinations for water sports, no trip to the area would be complete without signing up for some water-bound activities. Scuba divers and snorkellers will find that the underwater coral gardens off the coast of Mirissa Beach are teeming with marine life while those who have a flair for adventure can go kayaking, jet skiing or banana boating. Enjoying a whale-watching safari should also be a top priority for visitors and it is necessary to find a package that fits your budget.
As the main reason tourists head to Mirissa in the first place, your daily itinerary in Mirissa should also include beach time on some of the area's lesser-known beaches. Secret Beach is one such location where travellers can relax and unwind in a little piece of paradise. Don't forget to drop by Coconut Tree Hill which is among the finest locations to catch the sunset during a trip to Mirissa.
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.
