Unawatuna in Sri Lanka is one of the most famous areas in the country. Tourists on a vacation like to spend their time in the southern part of Sri Lanka. This is mainly because the south has the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. With roughly a one hour ride from capital city Colombo, Unawatuna’s a perfect area to stay for a few days. The town itself is small, has great shopping, guesthouses, trendy restaurants and quite some activities and sightseeing nearby. Read about our favorite things to do in Unawatuna.

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Unawatuna Beach

The main beach at Unawatuna is popular with both tourists and locals. The wide stretched beaches offer some good swimming and a part of the beach is occupied with sunbeds to rent. On the west end of the beach, there is a little walk to a pagoda statue overlooking the bay.

The beach is directly connected to the city center with loads of little restaurants and bars. There is a great beach vibe going on here even after sunset.

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Wijaya Beach (Beach Swing)

The most Instagrammed place of Sri Lanka is without a doubt the beach swing at Wijaya Beach. It isn’t really on Wijaya Beach but just around the corner. Search on Google Maps for Dream Cabana, Unawatuna. This is the exact spot. And please do us a favor, say Hi from us to the great guys over there.

➳ Also read: 9 Things To Do in Mirissa

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Jungle Beach Unawatuna

Jungle Beach is on the opposite side of the main beach. It’s a bit hidden so a lot quieter than the main beach. It is not as easy to visit as Unawatuna beach but worth the visit if you have time. It’s about a 10-15 min drive from the center of Unawatuna town.

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Visit Galle Fort

Galle Fort is something totally different in Sri Lanka. This great old fort is not filled with typical Sri Lankan architecture but has loads of influences of the Dutch, Portuguese and British. Galle Fort has loads of perfect souvenir shops and really great architecture. We love to wander around here for a full afternoon and watch the sunset on top of the fort wall.

➳ Read more: Galle Fort Mini-Guide

Surfing or Standup Paddleboard

Ready to get in the water? In between Unawatuna and Galle is a good beach to learn to surf. Note that the best season for surfing is between November and May. At Ahikava Surfschool, you can rent a board and maybe have some lessons as well. Grab a paddleboard during sunset, relax and just enjoy the moment.

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Fitness in Unawatuna

Love to have a good workout in the gym during your travels or holiday? A week entrance costs $10. We also found it a great way to connect with young local guys and girls who are also training and love a little chat where they tell you everything about the area. The name of the fitness on Google Maps is Unawatuna Fitness Center.

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Swim in the Best Infinity pool with a sea view

Luna Terrace near Galle Fort has a bar and infinity pool with the best view over the sea. Get a drink here and have a great afternoon swim.

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Stay at Tri Lanka

Hotel Tri is one of those hideaways near Unawatuna around Kogalla Lake. The sunrise and sunsets here are one of a kind overlooking the lake and cinnamon plantations.

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Baby turtles at the hatchery

In Habaraduwa there is a small turtle hatchery where they take care of damaged turtles. The turtles are saved from being stuck in fishing nets or plastic garbage. It is about a 5-10 minute tuk-tuk drive from Unawatuna.

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Rent a motorbike in Unawatuna

Explore Unawatuna and it’s surroundings by motorbike. There’s a lot around to see. Koggala Beach, Galle Fort, Wijaya Beach or Koggala Lake. For $6 a day you own a brand new motorbike. We rented our motorbike at Kumari Tours.

Best restaurants in Unawatuna

Unawatuna is a star is great little restaurants. There are plenty of options so you can try something else every lunch and/or dinner of your holiday.

1. Bedspace (quite expensive but so good)
2. Lemongrass Cafe (great place)
3. Happy Spice (cheap and local)
4. SkinnyTom’s Deli (best breakfast)

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Best time to visit Unawatuna

The best time to visit the southwest of Sri Lanka is from December until April and from July until the end of September.

Where to stay in Unawatuna

Hotels and guesthouses in Unawatuna are more expensive than the average price in Sri Lanka because of its popularity. But we got you a $15 discount at Booking.com when you book through this link.

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Camp Kush

Hostel located in the mangrove!

Bedspace

The prices double in high-season but this place is oh so good!