Tropical Bliss Awaits: Your Complete Travel Guide to Unawatuna
Your Complete Guide to Unawatuna: Where Tropical Bliss Awaits
If you want to enjoy the perfect coastal vacation in Sri Lanka, there’s no better place to visit than Unawatuna. This cosy beach-side town in the south of the island is filled with charm with its boutique shops, quaint cafes, relaxing accommodations and many adventures that await travellers eager to explore. Here are a few key facts about this idyllic town as you prepare to enjoy an unforgettable coastal experience at the edge of Sri Lanka.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Unawatuna is from December to April when the climate allows for outdoor activities and explorations. However, keep in mind that you’ll likely encounter larger crowds during the Christmas and New Year seasons. If you prefer to enjoy a quiet retreat, consider planning your visit for any time from February to April.
How to Get There
Unawatuna is located around 150 kilometres south of Colombo and you can reach the coastal town either by car, train or bus. Taxi rides are the most convenient, taking around 2 hours from Colombo to Unawatuna via the Southern Expressway. If you prefer to use public transport, the bus ride from Colombo takes approximately four hours while the journey by train from the Fort Railway Station lasts for around 3 hours.
Where to Stay
Your best bet is to stay at an Unwatuna beach resort which is within reach of the many beaches in the area. You can take your pick from a range of accommodation types including boutique hotels, guesthouses, and even luxury resorts and hotels, such as the iconic Araliya Beach Resort & Spa. Simply make sure that the accommodation you choose caters to the kind of experience you want to enjoy in Unawatuna, whether it be an authentic stay or one curated with modern comforts.
Things to Do
One of the great things about Unwatuna is that there’s never a dull moment, with plenty of experiences just waiting to be discovered.
Relaxing at the Beach
The most popular thing to do during your stay is to visit the town’s many beaches. Making your way to Unawatuna Beach and enjoying the scenic views is a must as it will likely be only a short walk from where you’re staying. The Jungle Beach is another great option with its palm-lined shores and picturesque jungle backdrop.
Visiting the Galle Fort
Paying a visit to this historic fort is worth your time if you want to explore a slice of Sri Lanka’s history. Deemed a UNESCO Heritage Site for its extraordinary history and architectural features, the fort takes you back in time through Sri Lanka’s colonial past, with its narrow winding streets, colonial-style buildings, churches and the iconic lighthouse and bell tower.
Head Out to Mirissa or Weligama
Located just a short drive from Unwatuna, the nearby towns of Weligama and Mirissa are worth a visit if you’re looking to venture a little further away. These towns are popular surfing spots in Sri Lanka and even provide opportunities for exciting whale-watching tours that you don’t want to visit.
How to Get About
Given that Unwatuna isn’t a large town, you can easily make your way around on foot, which can also help you take in the town’s sights and atmosphere. Alternatively, you can hail one of the many tuk-tuks on the road or rent a motorbike if you prefer getting about on your own.