Top 7 Beaches around Galle

by Wonders Of Ceylon a year ago 5 min read

Sri Lanka, an island nation known for its breathtaking beaches, draws tourists from around the globe to its sandy shores. The Galle region, situated on the southern coast, is home to some of the most stunning and alluring beaches the world has to offer. This guide aims to highlight the best beaches near Galle, providing you with valuable information to make your visit even more enjoyable.

1. Unawatuna Beach

Distance from Galle : 6 km

Unawatuna Beach near Galle, with its turquoise waters, hotels and beachgoers seen from above — **Unawatuna Beach seen from above. [Photo by Photo by** **Ibrahim Mohamed** on **Unsplash**]

Unawatuna Beach is a tropical paradise near Galle. This pristine beach once held the title of the number 1 beach in the world. With clear waters and white sandy beaches, it is one of Sri Lanka's must-visit beaches. The gentle tide makes it an ideal place for a good swim. It also offers several water sports and activities, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and banana boat rides.

The beach has a great view, and the small beach town is a great place to take a stroll and explore. There, you can find plenty of restaurants and cafes offering delicious local and international cuisine. Unawatuna Beach also hosts various events and parties throughout the year, creating a vibrant atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

2. Hikkaduwa Beach

Distance from Galle : 19 km

HHikkaduwa beach, with turquoise waters, sandy shores, hotels and palm trees — **Aerial view of Hikkaduwa Beach. [Photo by MariusLtu]**

Located in the Galle district of Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa is a beach lover's dream. With a lively atmosphere and nightlife, Hikkaduwa beach is an ideal spot for party-goers. The coral reef off the coast is also an excellent spot for diving and snorkeling. It is home to a diverse array of marine life, including schools of colorful fish and sea turtles.

Visitors can also engage in water sports, such as surfing, diving, and snorkeling. Hikkaduwa beach is lined with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a perfect destination for those who want to experience the local culture and enjoy a delicious meal by the beach. The beach also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, attracting tourists from all around the world.

3. Mirissa Beach

Distance from Galle : 33.7 km

Mirissa Beach at night, seen with colorful lights, palm trees and calm sea. — **Mirissa Beach at night. [Photo by Shalom Rufeisen]**

Mirissa is a charming fishing village on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, located about an hour's drive from Galle. The Mirissa beach has a picturesque landscape, with palm trees gracefully lining the shore, creating a serene and relaxed ambiance.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of water sports, such as jet-skiing and windsurfing. Mirissa is world famous for whale watching and dolphin watching. Several tour operators offer boat trips to spot these magnificent creatures. Blue whales, sperm whales, and spinner dolphins are some of the species frequently seen in the waters around Mirissa.

The beach also has a vibrant nightlife, with beach bars and restaurants offering fresh seafood and live music, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and entertainment.

Visiting Mirissa? Find out more about things to do in Mirissa.

4. Thalpe Beach

Distance from Galle : 10.5 km

Thalpe is most famous for its unique rock pools and mesmerizing views of the Indian Ocean. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the natural rock pools formed at low tide, where they can discover a diverse array of marine life, such as crabs, sea urchins, and colorful fish. The crystal clear waters of the rock pools, coupled with the mesmerizing views of the Indian Ocean, make for an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Thalpe Beach is also an excellent location for surfing enthusiasts, with several surf schools and rental shops available for beginners and experienced surfers alike. The beach is lined with luxurious villas and boutique hotels, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking tranquility and comfort.

5. Koggala Beach

Distance from Galle : 13 km

Sunset at Koggala Beach near Galle, with fishing stilts scattered across the beach — **Sunset at Koggala with fishing stilts scattered across the beach. [Photo by heckepics]**

Koggala beach is the longest beach in Sri Lanka, stretching over 5 kilometers. It is known for its serene and unspoiled beaches. The beach is relatively less crowded and offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of water sports, such as kitesurfing and windsurfing. The nearby Koggala Lake is also famous for boat rides and bird watching, offering a chance to spot various species, including kingfishers, herons, and egrets. The area is also home to the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Koggala Beach is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating experience.

6. Jungle Beach

Distance from Galle : 5.3 km

Jungle Beach is a hidden gem in Galle, known for its natural beauty and seclusion. The beach is surrounded by dense jungle, and you have to take a small hike through the jungle to get there. It's an excellent spot for those looking for a more secluded, off-the-beaten-path experience. The beach offers a pristine shoreline with golden sands and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

The surrounding jungle is home to various wildlife, such as small mammals, reptiles, and exotic birds. Jungle Beach is also an excellent location for a picnic or a leisurely walk, allowing visitors to enjoy the untouched beauty of this secluded paradise.

7. Dalawella Beach

Distance from Galle : 7.8 km

Sunset at Dalawella Beach near Galle, with beach, sea, palm trees and rocky outcrops. — **Dalawella Beach in the evening. [Photo by bloodua]**

Dalawella Beach is a small and secluded beach located in Galle. It is only a short distance away from Unawatuna and less crowded. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in refreshing waters. This beach is home to the famous rope swing, which became a social media sensation. The swing is attached to a tall palm tree and lets you soar above the ocean, providing a thrilling and memorable experience.

Dalawella Beach also features a natural lagoon, which offers calm waters perfect for swimming, especially for families with young children. The beach is lined with several boutique hotels and guesthouses, providing visitors a comfortable and tranquil stay.

If you are visiting down south Sri Lanka, be sure to see some of these beaches near Galle. Whether you're looking to relax, party, or take part in water sports, Galle has got you covered. You will leave with beautiful memories of this paradise island!