Brad Smith
Along the West Coast of Sri Lanka you will find the quaint seaside town of Marawila, providing a laidback getaway by the Indian Ocean. Here are some outdoor activities one can engage in on your holiday.
A relatively less crowded shoreline than what you will find at other West Coast destinations such as Negombo, Marawila Beach provides a more secluded stretch of shore in which to bask in the glorious coastal sunshine. Look to stay at Sri Lanka beach hotels in the region that are right by the shore such as Amagi Beach. You can even engage in a spot of beach volleyball which provides a nice way to get in some activity and friendly competition on your holiday.
A unique feature of Marawila is that it is also home to a lagoon which provides an ideal place for a relaxed boat ride. It is a great way to unwind and take in the scenery as you watch the world go slowly by; be on the lookout for local wildlife especially birds.
A RAMSAR wetland, the Anawilundawa Sanctuary provides a fascinating day out in nature as you explore this site rich in natural biodiversity. Dating back to the 12th century, there are manmade tanks that are part of the sanctuary which provides a home for freshwater fish and both endemic and migratory bird species. Bird watchers can spend their time in search of such colourful species as Sri Lanka Jungle Fowl and Pintail Ducks, not to mention cormorants, gulls, sandpipers, pelicans and terns, all of which have been spotted here. It is not just bird life that can be seen however, and on your adventures you may even catch a glimpse of the Indian otter, toque monkey and mongoose as well.
Marawila is an ideal base to visit the West Coast's main seaside town, Negombo. A short drive to this sunny stretch of coastline will give you a chance to enjoy everything from water sports to sightseeing. Snorkelling and diving are amongst the activities popular here along with kite surfing that takes advantage of the strong ocean breezes. Negombo also offers visitors a chance to get an insight into the colonial heritage of the island; here you will find distinctive Roman Catholic churches that were built during the time the Portuguese colonised this part of the island as well as the Dutch Canal which is an ideal place to take a boat ride.
