Tangalle and the South Coast

Blessed with an endless stretch of stunning palm-fringed coastline, Sri Lanka’s deep south is more remote and less touristy than the west coast and has miles of beautiful, unspoilt beaches. Tangalle has a handful of upmarket boutique hotels set on coves and isolated beaches and is the most developed town in the region, offering long walks along the glorious sun-kissed beaches or relaxed bike rides through fishing villages, providing insight into life in rural Sri Lanka.

The hike up to Mulgirigala Rock Temple is rewarding for the more active. Families travelling with young children will enjoy visiting the Rekawa Turtle Conservation Centre, set up to protect the sea turtles arriving on the beaches to nest and lay their eggs. East of Tangalle, Mirissa is a sleepy fishing village with a scenic stretch of peaceful, relaxing, tropical beach that is fast becoming a hotspot for spotting blue and sperm whales during the migration season between December and early April.

Nearby lies Weligama Bay, a laid-back town that retains its primary character as a fishing village along a charming shore punctuated with rocky outcrops. Weligama’s idyllic coastline is another base for exploring Sri Lanka’s villages. Accompanied by a guide, ride past meandering lagoons, lush paddy fields and ancient village temples.