7 Best Things To Do In Unawatuna

There’s much more than just tanning and cocktails to be found in the sun kissed south Sri Lankan town. So here are our top 7 things to do in Unawatuna.

1. Dalawella Rope Swing

Famous for its rope swing and low bending palm trees, Dalawella Beach is a beautiful strip of sand just down the road from Unawatuna.

It has a few picture perfect spots and with water that’s perfect for swimming, we highly recommend a stroll along one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.

The famous Sri Lanka rope swing is one of the top things to do in Unawatuna and can be found directly in front of Dreams Cabana guesthouse.

In the last couple of years the instafamous swing has become a huge tourist attraction!

The owners of the guesthouse charge 500 rupees to access it, although they are more than happy to climb up and untie the swing if you purchase of a bottle of water or two.

2. Stilt Fisherman

The traditional fisherman of Sri Lanka are a must see.

Sitting for hours on nothing but a large stick, with a line and pole, it’s a way for the poorer men to earn a living and a huge part of Sri Lankan culture.

If you scooter along the coastline of Unawatuna in the morning they’re pretty hard to miss!

3. Koggala Sea Turtle Farm & Hatchery

One of the most amazing experiences of our lives, let alone Sri Lanka! In our opinion the best of the things to do in Unawatuna!

Releasing baby turtles into the ocean was extremely high on Lauren’s bucket list and we finally were able to tick it off thanks to Koggala Sea Turtle Farm & Hatchery.

Koggala Turtle Hatchery Sri Lanka is a sanctuary that works on increasing the rate of survival of baby turtles on the island.

The guys here are doing an amazing job of rescuing and rehabilitating injured turtles. As well as buying local eggs from poachers and nurturing them until they hatch.

4. Jungle Beach

Jungle Beach is Unawatuna’s beach haven.

It has crystal blue waters and is somewhere you can fully switch off and listen to the sound of the sea or if you’re lucky enough the sound of a local playing the guitar!

5. Day Trip To Galle

Just like Mirissa & Weligama, Unawatuna & Galle come hand in hand.

A 15 minute tuk tuk up the road drops you directly in the middle of the famous Galle Fort. A historic Dutch landmark that has been transformed into a beautiful European like town.

If you’re really into Dutch history it might be worth staying over but we recommend renting a scooter for the day and exploring the fort and old town all in an afternoon. 

Galle Fort is full of chic shops, and beautiful cafes, and is definitely worth a day of our 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary.

Most famous for photographers, is the Galle Lighthouse, built by the British just before WWII.

The Lighthouse is a must capture postcard shot, which you will have to take home and remember Galle Fort by.

There is a also a small bathing spot beside the lighthouse, almost like a natural safe swimming pool.

For those wishing take visit on a day trip from Colombo, we can recommend the Galle and Bentota Day-Tour From Colombo.

6. Shopping

There’s always the shopping option. You’ll see when you arrive in Unawatuna that there is one way in and one way out so the street joining it all is packed full of gifts.

From hand picked Ceylon tea to unique hand crafted ornaments, you’ll find everything you need to take a piece of Sri Lanka home with you.

7. Eat At The Unawatuna Beachfront Restaurants

How could we not recommend a good old fashioned British jacket potato.

The owner of Koco’s Beach Grill has brought a piece of the UK to Unawatuna with his traditional Fish & Chips as well as some awesome cheese and bean topped jacket potatoes.

Where To Stay In Unawatuna

Luxury – Cocobay Unawatuna

Cocobay Unawatuna is a boutique-style beachfront resort that features a beachfront restaurant, and an outdoor pool.

Offering access to 200 yards of sandy beach with views of Galle Fort, the resort is located in a fishing village. 

Cocobay Unawatuna is just a 5-minute walk to Unawatuna Bus Station. 

Furnished with artworks and wood flooring, each air-conditioned room and suite comes with a flat-screen satellite TV, minibar and safe. Private bathroom has a spa bath, rain shower, bathrobes and slippers.

Guests can expect a fruit basket upon arrival, pillow menu and free Wi-Fi.

Mid-Budget – Beach Grove Villas

A 10-minute walk from the beautiful Unawatuna Beach, Beach Grove Villas is a 4-star property with an outdoor pool, private barbecue pits and massage treatments.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Airport transfers are available at a charge, while parking is free. 

The air-conditioned rooms all come with a living room and a TV. The en suite bathroom has either a bathtub or shower.

Budget – Unawatuna Hostel Honey Packers

Set in Unawatuna, 1.8 miles from Japanese Peace Pagoda, Unawatuna Hostel Honey Packers offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge.

Offering a garden, the property is located within 1.6 miles of Yatagala Temple.

The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, a shared kitchen and currency exchange for guests. At the hostel all rooms come with a private bathroom with a shower. 

Guests at Unawatuna Hostel Honey Packers can enjoy a vegan breakfast.

For more places to stay in Unawatuna, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.

More Sri Lanka Blogs

3 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary – Complete Guide

Dalawella Beach Swing Sri Lanka – A Complete Guide

Best Things To Do In Mirissa – A Complete Guide

Udawalawe Safari – The Best Sri Lanka Safari

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