Joanna James
If you are looking to experience Sri Lanka’s famed south coast away from the crowds, then Beruwala is your kind of place offering lazy days on the shore, adventure and romance. Here are some experiences that will make your first visit unforgettable and your Instagram followers very jealous!
If soft golden sands and gentle waves sound like your kind of bliss, Beruwala Beach is where you will want to be. It’s perfect for barefoot strolls, enjoyable dips in the ocean (ensure the waves are not rough), fun and frolic with the family, or simply soaking up the sun with a good book in hand. If you are up for something a bit more thrilling, there’s jet skiing and even banana boating. Pro tip: Stay at a Beruwala hotel beside the beach so you can begin and end your day with the soothing sights and sounds of the ocean.
Love is definitely in the air here, and some hotels beside the beach offer intimate dining experiences amidst Insta-worthy coastal backdrops. For example, you can start your day with breakfast by the pool, champagne included, of course, as you ease into laid-back island living. After a relaxing day at the beach or out exploring, have a picnic on the shore. As the sun bids farewell to another day, some properties like Cinnamon Bey Beruwala add to the romance, be it with a lantern-lit BBQ overlooking the ocean or a four-course dinner at a private gazebo under the stars.
Leave the sublime shores for a while (don’t worry, this slice of paradise will be right here waiting for you!) and make your way to the Barberyn Lighthouse. Easy to access from both Beruwala and Bentota hotels, this iconic lighthouse can be found on Barberyn Island, which can be reached by boat, adding to the whole adventure. Built in the 1800s by the British, it still watches over the waves like a stoic guardian. While you usually can’t climb to the top, the view from the island is lovely and breezy, making it a perfect spot for some selfies or a quiet little picnic.
Continue your sightseeing escapades with a visit to this sacred site. Tucked away near the coastline, Kechimalai Mosque is one of the oldest Islamic sites in Sri Lanka, which means history buffs should add it to their itinerary as well. It is said that this structure was built in the area where the first Muslims to the island landed, and it offers a striking sight near the coastline. Take time to just soak up the view of the mosque with its striking white facade and enjoy the serene setting that offers a peaceful moment to reflect and appreciate Beruwala’s multicultural roots.
A short drive inland brings you to a true hidden gem known as Brief Garden, the magical creation of Bevis Bawa, brother of the renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. This former rubber plantation has been transformed into a truly enchanting site with diverse landscapes, each with its own unique charm; wander through winding pathways flanked by tropical flora and hidden sculptures, find the Chinese water garden, and come across secret patios and staircases that feel like they lead to stories waiting to unfold. Think of it like a real-life Secret Garden but with better photo ops!
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.
