Why Unawatuna is a Charming Sri Lankan Beach Town You Shouldn’t Miss – Experience Alluring Coastal Attractions

The enchanting beach town of Unawatuna, on the island of Sri Lanka, is always an engrossing place to visit for the discerning traveller, presenting an array of absorbing attractions. Here, you will encounter expanses of golden sands, attractive cafes and restaurants, winding streets to explore and an appealing laidback vibe. There are many interesting and enjoyable things to see and do here, and some of these entrancing experiences are described below. 

Unawatuna Main Beach 

The obvious place at which to commence your experience of Unawatuna’s attractions is the well-known Unawatuna Beach. Both foreign tourists as well as locals regularly visit this scenic seashore. If you desire to go swimming, you will find that the middle area of this beach and the section towards its south are the best for this purpose. On the other hand, you may also opt to relax on a pleasant sunbed, order curries and cocktails from a bar near the shore, and perhaps later, take a leisurely stroll and admire the sunset. 

Japanese Peace Pagoda 

A very different kind of attraction is the captivating Japanese Peace Pagoda, which happens to be situated amidst a forest on a hillside towards the north of the aforementioned Unawatuna Beach. This impressive religious attraction was built in the year 2005 by a number of monks from Japan; this peace temple is regarded as a symbol of hope for the world’s people. Today, it is also a noteworthy sightseeing highlight, providing stunning views across the bay of Galle. It is also a great spot at which to observe the picturesque local sunset. 

Surfing opportunities 

Sri Lanka is regarded as an outstanding surfing destination, offering great opportunities for surfers of all levels of ability, including novices. Unawatuna will be an appealing place at which to learn the ropes of this enjoyable pursuit, offering skilled instructors and places where you can rent the necessary equipment. Attractive places in and around this locality where you can learn the art of surfing include Dewata Beach and the appealing Bona Vista Bay, a modestly sized beach situated between Unawatuna and the city of Galle.  

Umeshani Wickramanayake, White sands of Dalawella, CC BY-SA 4.0

Dalawella Beach 

Another marvellous attraction for those who crave sun, sand and surf is the picturesque Dalawella Beach. You will see that this shoreline is a striking sight with its unusual rock formations, array of swaying palm trees and exciting beach swing. In fact, this rope swing happens to be a popular attraction, drawing many curious leisure seekers and Instagrammers to this beach. As you might expect, this rope swing is an enjoyable experience and also offers great photo opportunities. One of the hotels near Unawatuna to consider, from which you can easily visit this beach, is Sri Sharavi Beach Villas & Spa, found in a location called Mirissa, which offers plenty of coastal bliss, too.

Galle Fort

An interesting sightseeing highlight that is within easy reach of Unawatuna is the historically significant Galle Fort, which dates to the colonial era. It is always appealing to stroll leisurely through the narrow lanes of this UNESCO World Heritage Site; you may well feel as if you had stepped back in time as you take in the captivating sights. As you explore Galle Fort, you will encounter charming Dutch colonial period buildings, stylish modern cafes, attractive boutiques and a distinctive, relaxed atmosphere.  

Habaraduwa Sea Turtle Hatchery

Also easily accessible from Unawatuna is the Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery, which happens to be a non-profit establishment that is devoted towards the protection and conservation of endangered sea turtles. Interestingly, a number of different types of sea turtles can be found in Sri Lanka, such as the loggerhead, green, olive ridley, leatherback and hawksbill varieties. The staff of this hatchery try their hardest to rescue and provide care for turtles that are injured; they also purchase turtle eggs (that may have been taken by locals), protect them and let them hatch naturally. During your visit to this hatchery, you may have the opportunity to see baby turtles being released into the ocean waters, which is awe-inspiring indeed.