1. Relax at Unawatuna Main Beach
Unawatuna's main crescent-shaped beach is a picturesque spot with soft, golden sand and calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and unwinding. Along the shore, numerous establishments provide sunbeds, creating a comfortable setting for relaxation. It is a lively beach, perfect for soaking in the tropical ambiance and watching the sunset.
Cost: Beach access is free. Sunbeds are available for rent, and snorkeling gear can be rented starting from approximately $5.00 USD.
Transport: Unawatuna Main Beach is centrally located and easily accessible by foot from most accommodations in Unawatuna town.
2. Explore Jungle Beach
Hidden beyond a short jungle trek, Jungle Beach offers a more secluded escape with crystal-clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It features two distinct bays, with the second often being quieter and more peaceful. It is a wonderful place to relax amidst nature, away from the main town's bustle.
Cost: Entry to Jungle Beach is free. Snorkeling mask rental is available from around $2.00 USD, or a full set with fins and a vest can cost about $7.50 USD. Swim beds are available for a minimal cost.
Transport: From Unawatuna center, Jungle Beach is about a 25-minute walk (1.5 km) through a simple trail. Alternatively, a tuk-tuk ride takes approximately 5-7 minutes and costs between $1.00 - $1.50 USD.
3. Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda
Perched on Rumassala Hill, the Japanese Peace Pagoda is a serene white stupa offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and Galle Fort. It provides a tranquil atmosphere for quiet reflection and is especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset. The site encourages respectful visits as it is a working religious monument.
Cost: There is no entrance fee to visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda.
Transport: The pagoda is about a 15-20 minute walk from Unawatuna town center. A short tuk-tuk ride from Unawatuna is also a convenient option.
4. Experience the Dalawella Beach Rope Swing
At Dalawella Beach, just south of Unawatuna, visitors can find the iconic palm tree rope swing, a popular spot for unique photographs. Swinging out over the ocean from a leaning palm tree provides a fun and exhilarating experience. The beach itself is protected by an outer reef, making its waters calm and suitable for swimming.
Cost: To use the rope swing, there is a fee of approximately $1.50 - $2.75 USD (500 LKR).
Transport: Dalawella Beach is a quick 5-minute tuk-tuk ride from Unawatuna, costing around $1.00 USD (300 LKR). It is also possible to walk, which takes about 30 minutes.
5. Join a Sri Lankan Cooking Class
Participating in a cooking class offers a hands-on way to immerse oneself in Sri Lankan culture through its vibrant cuisine. You can learn to prepare traditional dishes like various curries, blending local spices and fresh ingredients. Many classes include a visit to a local market to select ingredients, followed by a meal featuring the dishes prepared.
Cost: Cooking classes typically cost around $40.00 - $48.00 USD per person, which usually includes ingredients and a meal.
Transport: Many cooking classes are located within Unawatuna or a short tuk-tuk ride away in Galle. Some may offer pick-up services.
6. Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling
Unawatuna's clear waters and coral reefs make it an excellent location for underwater exploration. Snorkeling allows for a glimpse into the diverse marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles, near the shore or in dedicated spots like Jungle Beach. For a deeper experience, various dive centers offer courses for beginners and excursions for certified divers to explore shipwrecks and vibrant coral formations.
Cost: Snorkeling tours start from approximately $49.00 USD per person, including equipment. Scuba diving for beginners (Discover Scuba Diving) starts from about $65.00 USD, covering training, equipment, and a boat dive. For certified divers, a single dive can be around $35.00 USD.
Transport: Diving and snorkeling tours often depart by boat from Unawatuna Beach or nearby dive centers, which are typically centrally located or easily reachable by a short walk or tuk-tuk.
7. Visit a Sea Turtle Hatchery
A visit to a local sea turtle hatchery provides insight into the conservation efforts dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles. These centers collect and incubate turtle eggs, care for injured turtles, and release hatchlings into the ocean. It's an educational and moving experience, highlighting the importance of marine conservation.
Cost: Entrance fees are typically around $6.50 USD (2000 LKR) per person.
Transport: Several hatcheries are located a short distance from Unawatuna. A tuk-tuk ride typically takes about 5-10 minutes. For example, the Habaraduwa Sea Turtle Hatchery is a 10-minute drive.
8. Take a Koggala Lake Boat Safari
Just a short journey from Unawatuna, Koggala Lake offers a serene boat safari experience. Glide through mangrove forests and visit small islands, observing local wildlife like birds and monitor lizards. Some tours include visits to cinnamon production sites, spice gardens, or ancient temples on the islands, providing a glimpse into traditional livelihoods and natural beauty.
Cost: Hiring a boat for a 90-minute trip can cost around $20.00 USD (6000 LKR) for the boat. Packaged tours, which may include transport and additional activities, can cost around $70.00 USD per person.
Transport: Koggala Lake is located between Habaraduwa and Ahangama. A tuk-tuk or taxi from Unawatuna would be required to reach the lake, which is approximately 15-20 minutes away.
