Joanna James
Nestled along Sri Lanka's southern coastline, Mirissa beckons travellers with its enchanting blend of sun-kissed beaches and natural wonders. There’s much to do here be you after pure relaxation or some fun escapades for an unforgettable trip to the seaside. Read on to learn about some of the key sites you should visit when here.
Amongst the town’s key allures, Mirissa Beach is a crescent of soft golden sand gently caressed by azure waves, a haven for sun-seekers looking to laze on the shore and work on their tans. You can also look to build sandcastles with the family, swim in the ocean (when the seas are not rough) and even engage in water sports like snorkelling and body surfing. As day transforms into evening, the coastal atmosphere takes on a magical hue as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with a palette of vivid colours; it’s the perfect setting for a romantic walk or dinner beside the ocean.
For a panoramic view that will take your breath away, plan a visit to Coconut Tree Hill. This hill lined with swaying coconut palms overlooking the ocean offers an Instagram-worthy backdrop that encapsulates the essence of Mirissa's tropical charm. You can reach the top of this spot by foot either from the Bandaramulla Temple or the beach; as you make the ascent, each step brings you closer to a mesmerising vista that has become popular for selfies too! Look to reach the summit at sunrise or sunset for the best panoramas.
Located close to Mirissa, the Sea Turtle Hatchery Habaraduwa is an ideal place to visit for the entire family and provides a heartwarming and educational experience. Within easy reach of beachside properties like Sri Sharavi Beach Villas & Spa, it provides captivating insights into sea turtles and local conservation efforts. Here, you can see baby turtles swimming around in tanks and depending on the day and time, you can help release them safely out to sea as well!
Another key spot to head to on your holiday is Parrot Rock which can be found along the beach. Amongst the best things to do in Mirissa is to take a walk along the shore to the area where you can reach this attraction; there’s a small path leading to the summit where you can take in the stunning views of the sea as it surrounds you and the golden shores on either side. There’s a grassy area here too for you to sit and unwind a bit. Look to reach this viewpoint at sunset when the vistas are made more magical.
For a change of scenery, plan a visit to the Secret Beach; while its location may no longer be a ‘secret’, it still offers a sublime coastal escape to soak up the sun and enjoy the sand and surf! The location of the beach in a cove set amidst palm trees on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other provides an idyllic slice of paradise in which to relax. One section of the shoreline features a tidal rock pool where one can have a dip, while you can look to go snorkelling as well.
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.
