Accommodation in this Area

At a Glance

Area Description

The South West coastline has some of the same attractions of the West – beautiful beaches, diving and snorkelling opportunities, historic and interesting sights without the crowds. With easy access to several National Parks – Bundala, Yala- and the old town of Galle, one of the most interesting in Sri Lanka – you will have plenty to explore!

Galle was once a port and shows its colonial Dutch and Portuguese history, it is the capital of the southern province; the fort being the most popular attraction of the town. The fort houses the national Maritime Museum, the National museum and the lighthouse, a stroll around these will take an hour or two, best taken at dusk to enjoy the sensational sunsets from the Western Bastions. Galle is also known for its craftspeople, particularly for its lace. Jewellery, ceramics, Dutch period furniture and religious statues and brass work can be purchased. Sri Lanka is also the home to many superb artists, and Galle’s private galleries display some of the best.

The most beautiful, wide and sandy beaches can be found in Bentota on the South West, this is a thriving tourist resort, 65km from Colombo. The Season for scuba diving in Bentota is mid November to the end of March with ideal conditions around the 20th of December until about the 15th of March. CMAS and PADI instructors are available. The average Water Temperature is 30°C in all depths. A little further north, you will find Beruwela which is also popular with tourists and locals, there is a popular fresh water lagoon which is a popular water racing location.

The South Coast has pockets of wide beaches from Nov - April and lagoons for safe all year round swimming. Throughout the season of April to October, you will find many beaches narrow off but generally the South coast suffers with the seasons and many beaches narrow off April - October. However, it does boast the best snorkelling reefs in Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna.

Unawatuna has a very wide curving bay and clear waters but very narrow beaches. The off-shore reef can be reached easily and gives sheltered and safe swimming. It also boasts more species of fish than the great Barrier Reef! This is an excellent place for families to enjoy the beach, try diving, snorkelling and swimming with day trips to Yala or Hambantota Bird Sancturary close by.

Matara is one of the most major southern towns in Sri Lanka. The town has a star shaped fort at Matara which is an unusual and a unique structure. You will find several beautiful and less crowded beaches along the coast between Galle and Matara and the closest to the town is at Polhena. Another attraction is a 25m high colourful Buddha statue built at Veherahena Temple. The temple is about 2 kM from the town centre and about 1 Km inland from Pallimulla on the main road.

The south west is a great base for families, couples and travellers as it allows easy access to great attractions the island has to offer and also many fantastic beaches very close by – lots to chose from also!

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