Unawatuna, Sri Lanka: The Perfect Beachside Escape for Family Vacations

If you’re on vacation in Sri Lanka with your family and want to enjoy a memorable beachside vacation, then Unwatuna is the place to be. This coastal town in the south of Sri Lanka is home to an impressive array of beaches, each with its quirks and beauty to make your seaside escape memorable. Here are the best beaches you and your family can visit in Unawatuna.

Unawatuna Beach

You cannot spend time in Unawatuna without visiting its namesake beach. This banana-shaped stretch of shoreline features golden sands, scenic views and a vibrant atmosphere, and is located close to several of the Unawatuna luxury hotels, such as the well-known Araliya Beach Resort & Spa.

Use the sunbeds available for free at the beach to sit back and relax with your family or you can go for a thrilling jet ski ride or windsurf with the southern breeze. The beach is lined with atmospheric cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy some great Sri Lankan food.

Jungle Beach

As one of the lesser visited beaches in Unawatuna, Jungle Beach is the perfect spot for a secluded retreat. Offering calm waters with greater visibility, the beach is also ideal for an underwater adventure or a relaxing swim. The picturesque jungle surrounding the shoreline gives the beach its name and provides an excellent opportunity for some trekking.

Dalawella Beach

Another great spot for a quiet beach vacation with your family is Dalawella Beach, just a short drive from the town. The beach is known for its various seawater swimming pools and mesmerising views of the horizon, making it the perfect choice for soothing relaxation. There’s also a beach swing which is popular for the thrill it provides as you ride up high into the air on a sturdy rope.

Mihiripenna Beach

Home to several mesmerising coral reefs, this secluded beach is not too far from Dalawella Beach and is great for exploring the world below the waters. If you aren’t looking to dive too far out, the beach features a natural pool which is perfect for your kids to have a good splash in. If you visit in the evenings, you can observe groups of stilt fishermen perched patiently waiting for their catch of the day.
Koggala Beach

If you’re looking to venture out a little further away from Unawatuna, Koggala Beach beckons with its perfect waves and surf-worthy conditions. It’s the perfect place to try out your surfing skills, and there are plenty of surfing schools nearby where you can teach your kids the basics. The beach is also lined with several restaurants and eateries that serve some great seafood to help satisfy your appetite.