Unawatuna — The Postcard Beach★★
Unawatuna is located just 5 km southeast of Galle Fort and is one of Sri Lanka's most popular bathing beaches — a sheltered, crescent-shaped bay with calm, turquoise waters that are safe even for children.
The beach is touristically developed but not overcrowded: Beach restaurants serve fresh fish, surf schools offer beginner courses, and the offshore reef provides good snorkeling directly from the beach. Unawatuna is not a hidden gem — but a place where you immediately feel at home.
Around Unawatuna
- Japanese Peace Pagoda: A white stupa on a hill above the bay with fantastic views. 15-minute climb.
- Jungle Beach: Hidden small beach, 20 minutes on foot east of Unawatuna. Fewer tourists, good snorkeling.
- Snorkeling & Diving: Sea turtles, clownfish, and colorful corals live in front of the reef. Diving schools from 7,000 LKR (~20 €) per dive.
💡 Tipp
Unawatuna is the perfect base to combine Galle Fort, whale watching, and the south coast beaches. Accommodations are cheaper than in the fort itself, and a tuk-tuk to Galle costs only 400 LKR (1.14 €).
