Unawatuna

About Unawatuna

Just 5 km southeast of Galle Fort, Unawatuna is a laid-back coastal village built around a crescent-shaped bay of soft golden sand. A coral reef shelters the water for calm swimming and easy snorkeling, sea turtles glide close to shore, and a short walk over Rumassala Hill leads to the hidden Jungle Beach and the hilltop Japanese Peace Pagoda.

Top experiences

• 
  Unawatuna Beach

  A crescent bay of soft golden sand and reef-calmed waters — great for swimming and turtle spotting.

• 
  Jungle Beach

  A hidden cove tucked behind Rumassala Hill — quieter, greener and ideal for snorkeling.

• 
  Japanese Peace Pagoda

  A gleaming white Buddhist stupa on Rumassala Hill with panoramic views of Galle Bay.

• 
  Rumassala Hill trails

  A legendary Ramayana site with rare medicinal plants and shaded jungle trails.

• 
  Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya

  A serene ancient rock temple surrounded by rice fields and jungle just inland from Unawatuna.

• 

  Blue whale watching cruise

  Half-day boat trip in search of blue and sperm whales.

• 

  Surf lesson at Weligama Bay

  ISA-certified coaches, gentle beach breaks, all gear included.

• 

  Madu River mangrove safari

  Boat glide through mangroves, temple islands and cinnamon farms.

• 

  Coconut Tree Hill sunset

  The iconic Mirissa headland framed by leaning palms.

• 

  Galle Fort

  17th-century Dutch fort city — a walkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• 

  Mirissa Beach

  Crescent bay with palm-fringed sand and the Coconut Tree Hill headland.

• 

  Unawatuna Beach & Japanese Peace Pagoda

  Sheltered swimming bay with a hilltop pagoda and jungle views.

• 

  Weligama Bay

  Sri Lanka's surf-school capital with fishing stilts and calm waters.