Things to Do in Unawatuna Sri Lanka

Introduction

Unawatuna is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Sri Lanka. Its beauty, vibrant nightlife, and cultural richness make it a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy exciting water sports. For these reasons, the Unawatuna beach is always crowded with tourists.

Location of Unawatuna

This famous coastal town is located about 6 kilometres southeast of Galle city on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. Unawatuna is easily accessible from the main road from Galle city and is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing tour.

Weather in Unawatuna

The climate is tropical, with average temperatures ranging from 27°C to 30°C throughout the twelve months.
The dry season from November to April is ideal for outdoor activities and relaxing on the Unawatuna beach.
There is brief rain from May to October. However, there will be plenty of tourists at that time.

Best Time to Visit Unawatuna

If you plan to visit Unawatuna, the best time is from November to April. There is minimal rainfall during this time so that you can do any activity in Unawatuna. The sea remains calm during this period. So, there is no obstacle to water sports and swimming. But if someone does not like to travel in crowded places, they can travel here from May to October.

Journey Time to Unawatuna

Here’s the estimated travel time and distance to Unawatuna from the locations you mentioned:

1). From Colombo Airport to Unawatuna distance: 155 km

Time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car

2). From Colombo to Unawatuna distance: 119 km

Time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car

3). From Hikkaduwa to Unawatuna distance: 21 km

Time: Approximately 30 minutes to 45 minutes by car

4). From Mirissa to Unawatuna distance: 35 km

Time: Approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour by car

5). From Ahangama to Unawatuna distance: 18 km

Time: Approximately 30 to 40 minutes by car

6). From Ahungalla to Unawatuna distance: 46 km

Time: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours by car

If you are traveling from Galle to Unawatuna, it will take you only 15 minutes. But you need to remember that the average times I mentioned above will vary depending on your transportation and route.

Time Taken to Explore Unawatuna

Although Unawatuna is a small coastal town, it offers many attractions that can keep you entertained for a few days. If you prefer to relax on the beach, you can only spend a few hours there. However, if you are exploring its cultural significance, heritage, and other attractions, I recommend staying in Unawatuna for at least two to three days. Then, you will realize that it is worth not only enjoying the Unawatuna beach, but also exploring the nearby attractions.

Importance of Unawatuna

Unawatuna is not just a beach. It is also a cultural and historical landmark. The city is home to ancient temples, ruins of colonial buildings, and villages inhabited by Sri Lankan people.

Historical Significance: Unawatuna is important in Sri Lanka's ancient maritime history. It was once a major port city, and its ancient temples, which reflect the architecture and local culture of the British colonial era, enhance its appeal.
It’s not just about the beach; Unawatuna is a unique destination that offers a unique opportunity to experience both coastal life and the rich culture of Sri Lanka.

Things to do in Unawatuna

Here’s a breakdown of activities to enjoy in Unawatuna:

Relaxing on the Beach: Unawatuna's most famous feature is its golden sandy beaches and clear waters, which make the beach perfect for relaxation.
Cultural Exploration: Explore shrines like the Japanese Peace Pagoda and the Unawatuna Temple and gain an understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich artistic and religious heritage.
Enjoyable activities: Unawatuna also offers opportunities for fun water activities, cooking classes that teach you about local recipes, Ayurvedic Massage, and more.

Water Sports and New Experiences

Unawatuna is a great place for water sports enthusiasts. Several centres along the Unawatuna coast offer guided tours to explore the vibrant coral reefs in the sea. It is a need thing for many travellers. In addition, these water sports also provide you with the perfect mix of fun and new experiences.

Snorkelling and Scuba Diving: These are great activities for exploring the beautiful coral reefs and colourful marine life in the crystal clear waters.
Surfing: Surfers expect high waves, and the Unawatuna beach also offers waves suitable for beginners.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): A popular sport among tourists that offers a more relaxed experience in the water.
Boating: For those looking for a more relaxed and free experience, these fun boat rides allow you to explore the surrounding area while watching the calm coastline.

Main attractions in Unawatuna

Here is a closer look at some of the best attractions in Unawatuna:

Unawatuna Beach: This is the main attraction and a popular tourist spot in Unawatuna. It is a great place to watch the sunset, swim in the calm waters, and relax and enjoy the nightlife.
Japanese Peace Pagoda: This shrine on a high hill offers a beautiful beach view and is an excellent place for photography and relaxation.
Shops: Unawatuna town has local handicraft shops selling hand-woven bags, handmade jewellery, and Sri Lankan tea. These shops are a great place to pick up souvenirs from Sri Lanka.

Cafes and Restaurants in Unawatuna

There are many attractive cafes and restaurants in Unawatuna town and along the coastline that can cater to all tastes.

Seafood restaurants: You can enjoy fresh seafood on the beach at places like The Sand.
International and vegan options: If you are looking for a variety of delicious food, head to Café Caca and enjoy international options or vegan-friendly dishes.
Beach cafes: Many cafes are located near the beach. So, at Ocean View Cafe, you can enjoy a delicious coffee or a meal while enjoying the beautiful ocean views.

Places to Stay in Unawatuna

Unawatuna provides a variety of accommodation choices to fit all budgets.

There are plenty of places to stay with all the essential amenities, from luxury resorts with beachfront views to boutique hotels.
Finding guesthouses, homestays, and backpacker hostels with essential amenities in the surrounding area is not challenging for those on a budget.

Other Nearby Attractions

Galle Fort, Jungle Beach, Koggala Lake, Stilt Fisherman, Talpe Natural Pool, Dalwella Beach, Koggala Beach, Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre, Mahamodara, Ahangama Beach, and Rumassala.

Unawatuna Beach perfectly blends cultural experiences, adventure activities, and water sports. Whether you want to relax on the beach, immerse yourself in the local culture, or indulge in water-based activities, Unawatuna is a great city that offers it all. Plan your trip today to have a wonderful time and experience such amazing things.