Best Things To Do in Galle & South Coast Sri Lanka

Journey through time in Sri Lanka! Explore the island's fascinating history at one of its many antique museums, where ancient artefacts whisper tales of a bygone era. Pick up a unique souvenir to cherish your visit. For the thrillseekers, dive deep into Sri Lanka's maritime heritage at the underwater Navy museum, a tribute to the nation's brave divers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The South is like a treasure map pinpointing Sri Lanka’s most alluring coastlines!

Tangalle Beach offers a serene escape from city life, with minimal tourism and miles of coastline flanked by lagoons.

Crescent-shaped Marissa beach is picturesque turquoise bay, perfect for intermediate surfers and snorkelers. With the right blend of seclusion and beachfront charm, this stunning coastline of pearly-white sands is lined with restaurants and bars. For a hidden gem, take a 20-minute walk to Secret Beach, where untouched tranquility awaits.

Take a stroll through wooded trails to find yourself among the breathtaking seascapes of Hiriketiya Beach. Sink your toes into the sugary sands, find shade under lush green umbrellas, and listen to the soothing rhythm of waves crashing against the shore.

Once a seaport during the Battle of Ceylon, Galle today is home to a unique culture enriched by different nationalities, making it a thriving coastal city with an opulent history and lively atmosphere. Visit one of Galle's 36 stone forts, browse the rainbow-coloured shops, or enjoy a fresh lunch in the local markets. Explorers will enjoy a visit to nearby Ambalangoda, to discover Sri Lanka's woven art of arts and crafts.

We recommend taking the bus or tuk-tuk to the next town. You can also hire a bicycle to discover the rural villages in their natural surroundings.

Weligama City is alive with carved wooden surfboards, giant coconuts and streets bustling with locals. The beach at Weligama City Beginner's Surf is dotted with rocky outcrops. The southerly winds create perfect weather conditions for surfing and the beach itself offers a beautiful seascape with a rustic feel.

One of the most photographed beaches in Sri Lanka. Coconut Tree Hill lives up to its name: a temple of palm trees planted on a cliff overlooking glassy turquoise waters. At dusk, witness a breathtaking sunset painted in shades of purple and orange. This spot, popular on Instagram, is located to the east of Mirissa beach. Close to the city, it is easily accessible day and night, free of charge.

A visit to Sri Lanka won’t be complete without venturing out to a Jungle Book-like setting. Lucky for you, Yala and Udawalale are fascinating National Parks located on the South-East coast of Sri Lanka, but why settle for one when you can have both? Choose from wild camping in the moonlight to a majestic safari ride of elephants, leopards and monkeys, or race your family to a bird-spotting gambol and capture wildlife in its serene element.

At Koggala Beach, you'll find fishermen practising the age-old tradition of stilt fishing. Watch as they skilfully balance on bendy bamboo stilts, patiently waiting for their catch. If you're feeling adventurous, join them on their stilts for a unique fishing experience. It's best to try this early in the morning or evening when the fish are most active. Don't forget to tip the fishermen for their guidance and expertise!

Peacefully perched on a 673-foot-high rock, Mulkirigala or Mulkirigala Raja Maha Viharaya is one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful ancient monuments to date. The rock is known as 'Little Sigiriya', because of its elegantly sculpted architecture. Climb the path to the top and enjoy panoramic views over fields of lush emerald forest in sky-blue hues.

The temples of Kataragama come alive in the evening to the rhythm of drums and the whistling melody of conches during religious rituals. They are dedicated to the Buddhist guardian deity Kataragama deviyo and the Hindu god of war Murugan.

Built in the 1500s by the Portuguese and further fortified by the Dutch, lies the colonial jewel: Galle Fort. With the Galle lighthouse, hidden cafés, antique shops and sumptuous boutique hotels, there's still plenty to see! Take a stroll along the beach, where the locals sell fresh juicy fruit, and set your mind alight where history and grandeur merge.

A local family runs trips to see those spectacular creatures almost all year round. Take a cruise into the Indian Ocean to witness a sight of the earth’s graceful giants. Whale watching season begins from November to April, during that time you’re more likely to win the lottery than leave the cruise seeing nothing; the chances of spotting magnificent whales are usually 98%!