Unawatuna
Southern Province
About Unawatuna
Unawatuna is one of Sri Lanka's best-known beaches - a golden, banana-shaped bay protected by a reef, which keeps the water calm and swimmable nearly year-round. The beach is lined with restaurants and small hotels, yet the far ends stay relaxed even in high season. Above the western headland sits a white Japanese Peace Pagoda with sweeping coastal views, and a short scramble beyond it hides Jungle Beach, a pocket cove popular for snorkelling. Being just ten minutes from Galle Fort, Unawatuna makes a perfect base for combining beach time with the fort's cafes and history. Diving schools run trips to nearby wrecks and reefs, and at dusk the whole bay turns a soft orange as fishing boats head out for the night.
Top Activities
- ✓Swimming in the protected bay
- ✓Snorkelling at Jungle Beach
- ✓Japanese Peace Pagoda sunset walk
- ✓Scuba diving to reefs and wrecks
- ✓Day trip to Galle Fort
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Walk to the quieter western end for the calmest swimming.
Visit the Peace Pagoda an hour before sunset for the best light.
Weekdays are noticeably quieter than weekends.
Quick Info
Best Time
November to April
Weather
Sunny and dry November–April. Monsoon swells May–October.
Estimated Daily Budget
6.0098°N, 80.2492°E
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