Top Places to Visit Along Sri Lanka's Stunning South Coast - A Guide to the Island's Coastal Allures

Hiriketiya Beach, gaining popularity as a surf destination, offers a relaxed atmosphere that attracts travellers from around the world, yet remains less crowded than other well-known beaches along Sri Lanka's southern coast. Its secluded bay, tucked away from the main road, ensures a peaceful and tranquil environment, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. Additionally, Hiriketiya serves as a great base for exploring nearby beaches and other coastal hotspots.

Tissamaharama, often seen as just a gateway to Yala National Park, offers much more than expected, surprising visitors with its array of attractions and serene atmosphere. It stands out as one of the best places along Sri Lanka’s southern coast for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity. The town is a charming blend of Buddhist stupas set amid rice paddies, with stunning sunsets over Tissa Wewa (or Tissa Lake), and other nearby lakes like Debarawewa and Yodakandiya, perfect for boat rides or canoeing. Beyond Yala, Tissamaharama is also close to the Bundala National Park and the Weerawila Bird Sanctuary, great places to explore for those looking to spot exotic wildlife and birdlife.

Mirissa is renowned as the top destination on Sri Lanka's southern coast for whale watching, with several tour operators offering similar safari experiences at comparable prices. Beyond the whales, Mirissa boasts a charming beach and a variety of excellent restaurants, where diners can select their fish from the catch of the day and have it grilled to order. For those seeking peace and seclusion, the pristine, off-the-beaten-path Secret Beach in Mirissa is a must-visit, offering a tranquil escape - consider this a Sri Lanka travel information tip that you do not want to forget!

The Galle Fort, once the trading hub of the Dutch VOC, was home to Dutch merchants and soldiers and a key landmark during colonial rule. This stunning fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and to explore it is to take a walk back in time. On your adventures, you will also come across the historic Dutch Reformed Church which still features the graves of those who died here, with inscriptions in old Dutch revealing that among them were doctors, lawyers, and accountants. Some Dutch families continue to own property within the fort, and along with the government, they work to preserve its history. Another feature is the ramparts which encircle the old part of the town; do not miss the chance to walk along them and take in the stunning ocean views, especially at sunset. Look to be based at south coast properties of hospitality brands like Anantara Hotels & Resorts which offer tours and excursions to Galle. 

The southern coast of Sri Lanka is well-known for its turtles, which come to lay their eggs, but they face significant challenges to their survival. Several small projects along the coast aim to improve the survival rates of baby turtles, which have to overcome numerous challenges as well before reaching the sea. Eggs are often sold in local markets as food, while predators like dogs and birds pose additional threats to the hatchlings. Luckily, you get turtle conservation projects like the one in Kosgoda which are stepping in. Such organisations carefully preserve turtle eggs within their hatchery till they are ready to hatch and then safely release them out to sea. Another initiative can be seen in the turtle conservation project at Rekawa Beach near Tangalle where you can join volunteers at night to watch turtles lay their eggs before they return to the ocean.