Joanna James
Tipped to be one of the southern coast's finest beach capitals, Unawatuna is also a dream destination for active travellers of all ages. From exploring the area's cultural highlights to taking part in water sports activities, here's a list of a dozen things to do during a beach getaway in Unawatuna.
Shaped like a crescent moon, Unawatuna Beach is the perfect location to relax and sit back in a sun-kissed atmosphere with stunning ocean vistas at every turn. Whether you are catching up on your reading on a sun lounger or simply soaking up the atmosphere from a beach bar, there's more than one way to get some much-needed downtime during a trip to the beach hub.
Teeming with coral reefs inhabited by countless tropical fish species, the house reef just off the coast of Unawatuna Beach is not only shallow and easy to reach but also provides excellent clarity for snorkelling activities.
Commanding spectacular views from its vaulted height, Rumassala Hill is not only a prime hiking hotspot in Unawatuna but also a verdant mountain where local Ayurvedic practitioners find valuable medicinal plants for their healing remedies.
With its rich marine life heritage not limited to schools of vibrant fish, sea turtles and octopuses, Unawatuna Reef is a must-experience dive site for all deep-sea explorers.
The Japanese Peace Pagoda which occupies a hill overlooking Unawatuna Beach is not only a sacred place of worship but a monument built to remind Sri Lankans of their commitment to peaceful co-existence after decades of ethnic conflict.
Whether you are occupying a suite at the Araliya Beach Resort & Spa or any other Unawatuna beach resort a holiday in this seaside paradise would not be complete without setting sail on a glass-bottomed boat. Offering vacationers who cannot swim, snorkel or dive a sneak peek of the underwater coral gardens occupying the reef, it is a veritable rite of passage for first-time visitors.
Situated within easy driving distance of Unawatuna Beach is the UNESCO World Heritage Site and luxury dining district known as the Dutch Galle Fort.
Nature lovers and avid conservationists can't afford to miss a tour of the Sea Turtle Hatchery located close to Unawatuna Beach. Rescuing sea turtle eggs from the beach, the hatchery also releases baby sea turtles back into the ocean once they reach the appropriate age.
As a popular lunch and picnic spot close to Unawatuna Beach, Jungle Beach is a hidden piece of paradise that's not just reserved for day-trippers from Colombo.
Couples honeymooning in Unawatuna Beach can also sign up for a catamaran or speedboat sailing excursion at sunset.
While there are a great many water sports activities accessible on Unawatuna Beach, jet skiing is perhaps the most rewarding option for those who cannot enjoy the surfing and scuba diving potential of the area.
Lined with beach bars and seafood restaurants, Unawatuna Beach is also one of the top locations to dig into Sri Lankan fish curries and other regional culinary delights such as hot butter cuttlefish.
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.
