Unawatuna,Sri Lanka

• Unawatuna Beach (main bay)
• Japanese Peace Pagoda (Goda Pahari)
• Jungle Beach (small secluded cove)
• Galle Fort (UNESCO World Heritage Site) — short drive
• Dalawella Sea Turtle Conservation / Hatchery
• Coral reef snorkeling and diving sites
• Rumassala Hill and Rumassala Herbal Garden

• Sheltered crescent bay with calm waters ideal for swimming
• Fringing coral reef close to shore with abundant reef fish
• Scenic viewpoints at Rumassala and the Peace Pagoda overlooking the bay
• Small secluded coves such as Jungle Beach for quieter visits
• Local seafood and coastal cuisine specialties

• Swimming and sunbathing on Unawatuna Beach
• Snorkeling and scuba diving on the nearby reef
• Visiting the Japanese Peace Pagoda for sunset views
• Short trips to Galle Fort for history, shopping and dining
• Joining turtle conservation activities and hatchery visits
• Boat trips and coastal walks (Rumassala, Jungle Beach)
• Surfing and stand-up paddleboarding in selected spots
• Day trips to nearby attractions (Koggala, Hikkaduwa, Mirissa)

• Galle Literary Festival (annual, nearby in Galle — usually February/March)
• Sinhala & Tamil New Year (Avurudu) celebrations in April — local cultural events and food
• Vesak (Buddhist festival) celebrations with lanterns and temple activities
• Occasional local beach clean-ups and conservation events run by NGOs

December to April — generally the driest and sunniest period on the south coast, with calm seas for swimming and snorkeling.

Tropical coastal climate: warm year-round (average daytime temperatures 27–32°C / 80–90°F). The southwest monsoon (May–September) brings heavier rains and rougher seas. Humidity is high; brief showers can still occur outside monsoon months.

Nearest major international airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo, ~150–180 km by road). Closest large town and railhead: Galle (about 6–8 km). Regular buses, trains to Galle and local buses/tuk-tuks/taxis connect Unawatuna. Road travel time from Colombo is roughly 2–3 hours depending on traffic. Local transport is by tuk-tuk, motorcycle taxi or rented car; some beach stretches may be uneven for wheelchair users.

2–4 days to relax on the beach, snorkel or dive, and visit nearby Galle; longer stays (5–7 days) allow day trips to other southern attractions.

Lightweight cotton clothing, swimwear, a sun hat and sunglasses, reef shoes for snorkeling, sturdy sandals for walks, a light rain jacket during the monsoon months, insect repellent, and reef-safe sunscreen. If diving/snorkeling, bring or rent appropriate gear; operators provide tanks and guides.

Local foods to try: fresh seafood (grilled fish, prawn curry), hoppers (appa), kottu roti, string hoppers, coconut sambol and tropical fruits. Popular souvenirs: handloom textiles, local tea, wood carvings, traditional masks, and handcrafted jewelry. Support community projects and turtle hatcheries by donating or participating responsibly.