UNAWATUNA & HIKKADUWA
Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa define Sri Lanka’s South Coast charm. They blend world-class surf breaks with tranquil swimming bays, offering travelers a quintessential tropical escape.
This lively stretch is famed for its relaxed, bohemian vibe, historic proximity to Galle Fort, and rich marine life, including giant sea turtles and a stunning coral sanctuary.
Most Popular Attractions
Beaches & Coastal Wonders:
Unawatuna Beach: A famous curved bay with calm, clear waters protected by a reef, ideal for swimming and families.
Hikkaduwa Beach: A long, wide stretch of sand known for its energetic atmosphere and consistent waves perfect for surfing.
Dalawella Beach: A picture-perfect lagoon famous for the iconic palm tree Rope Swing over the calm waters.
Jungle Beach: A secluded, hidden cove accessible by a short jungle hike from Unawatuna, popular for its tranquility and snorkeling.
Wijaya Beach: A beautiful lagoon area formed by a reef, recognized as a prime spot for swimming alongside wild sea turtles.
Rumassala Hill: The headland overlooking Unawatuna and Galle Bay, offering incredible coastal views and lush hiking trails.
Mihiripenna Beach: A lesser-known stretch featuring a tranquil swimming lagoon and an alternative beach swing for photos.
Marine Life & Water Activities:
Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Sanctuary: A large, shallow marine reserve teeming with multicolored corals and diverse exotic fish, viewable via snorkeling or a Glass Bottom Boat Tour.
Swimming with Sea Turtles: Encountering wild green sea turtles that feed close to shore, particularly near Hikkaduwa Beach and Wijaya Beach.
Scuba Diving (Hikkaduwa Shipwrecks): Exploring the numerous sunken vessels, including the Conch and Earl of Shaftesbury, which are popular dive sites.
Surfing Lessons: Catching waves at Hikkaduwa, one of Sri Lanka’s premier surf destinations, suitable for all skill levels.
Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project: A popular day trip destination focused on protecting sea turtle eggs and rehabilitating injured turtles before releasing them into the ocean.
Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery: A non-profit organization focused on turtle conservation, located just south of Unawatuna.
Culture, History & Temples:
Galle Fort (UNESCO World Heritage Site): A mandatory day trip (15 minutes away) to explore the historic Dutch colonial city, cobblestone streets, and unique architecture.
Japanese Peace Pagoda: A beautiful white stupa perched atop Rumassala Hill, offering panoramic views of the coastline and dedicated to inspiring world peace.
Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya: An impressive ancient rock temple near Unawatuna featuring a massive, 9-meter-long reclining Buddha statue carved into the stone.
Galle Lighthouse: The iconic, working lighthouse located on the southeastern ramparts of Galle Fort, a popular spot for sunset viewing.
Tsunami Honganji Viharaya (Big Buddha Statue): A towering Buddha statue erected near Telwatta (Hikkaduwa) to commemorate the victims of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami.
Tsunami Museum (Telwatta): A moving memorial near Hikkaduwa documenting the events and impact of the 2004 disaster.
Gangarama Temple (Hikkaduwa): A local Buddhist temple known for its detailed, brightly colored educational wall paintings created by a single artist.
Dutch Reformed Church (Galle Fort): A significant 18th-century church within the fort, notable for its grave markers and historic interior.
Riding the Railway Line (Hikkaduwa): Taking photos along the coastal railway track, a scenic and adventurous local activity when trains are not passing.
Activities & Experiences
Go Surfing or Learn to Surf: Hit the consistent reef breaks in Hikkaduwa (especially November-March) or the more beginner-friendly beach breaks in Unawatuna/Weligama for all skill levels.
Take a Boat Trip to Koggala Lake: Explore the mangroves, visit Cinnamon Island to see the spice production process, and spot diverse birdlife on this beautiful, calm lake near Unawatuna.
Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda: Climb the hill for this stunning white dagoba and enjoy panoramic views of Galle Fort, Unawatuna Beach, and the surrounding coastline at sunset.
Snorkel or Dive on the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef: Explore the shallow, protected coral sanctuary right off Hikkaduwa Beach, where you can see colorful fish and sea turtles.
Release Baby Sea Turtles: Visit a local Sea Turtle Hatchery (found near both towns) to learn about conservation efforts and participate in releasing rescued baby turtles into the ocean at dusk.
Wander through Galle Fort (UNESCO World Heritage): Take a short ride to the historic Dutch-built fort, a vibrant town full of colonial architecture, boutique shops, and charming cafes.
Experience the Famous Sri Lankan Train Ride: Take the scenic train journey either east towards Mirissa or west towards Colombo for breathtaking coastal views, often considered one of the world’s most beautiful train routes.
Go on a Local Food & Spice Tour: Visit a local market and take a cooking class to learn the secrets of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, focusing on curries, rice, and fresh seafood.
Relax on Jungle Beach: Take a short tuk-tuk ride or walk through the jungle path to this secluded, smaller beach cove near Unawatuna, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Spot the iconic Mirissa Stilt Fishermen: While slightly south, the picturesque Stilt Fishermen of Koggala/Ahangama are a quintessential photo opportunity and cultural sight (though often staged for tourists).
Enjoy Beachside Yoga or Wellness: Both areas have numerous centers offering daily yoga sessions, meditation classes, and Ayurvedic spa treatments right by the ocean.
Local Tips & Transport
Tuk-Tuks are King: The most common and convenient way to get around the area. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey. Drivers are usually happy to wait for you for a small additional fee.
The Coastal Road (A2): This main road runs along the coast, connecting the two towns and Galle. It is busy but efficient. Local Buses are the cheapest way to travel along the A2, offering a fast, exciting, and extremely budget-friendly option (look for the yellow, red, or blue buses).
Train Travel: The coastal train is highly recommended for longer journeys (e.g., to Colombo, Bentota, or Mirissa). The Galle train station is the best hub for the region. Purchase tickets at the station on the day of travel.
Scooter Rental: Scooters are available to rent, offering maximum flexibility to explore hidden beaches. Be aware that traffic is chaotic, and an international driving permit is legally required.
Respect the Wildlife: You will frequently encounter monkeys, large monitor lizards, and sea turtles. Do not feed the monkeys and maintain a respectful distance from all animals. The sea turtles near the shore are used to humans but avoid touching them.
Beach Safety: The sea can be rough, especially during the monsoon seasons (May-September in the South). Always check flag warnings. Unawatuna and Jungle Beach generally offer calmer swimming spots than parts of Hikkaduwa.
Tipping & Bargaining: Tipping is customary for good service (around 10% in restaurants, rounding up for tuk-tuks). Bargaining is expected in markets and for tuk-tuk rides (start at 30-50% less than the asking price).
Religious Sites: When visiting temples or the Peace Pagoda, ensure you are dressed modestly (shoulders and knees covered). You must remove your shoes and hats before entering, and please do not take photos with your back to the Buddha statue.
Dining: Rice and Curry: The national dish is Rice and Curry, which is actually many small vegetable and meat curries served with a large portion of rice. Look for a ‘rice and curry buffet’ or ‘all-you-can-eat’ spot for an authentic and budget-friendly feast.
Hidden Gems:
- Wijaya Beach (Unawatuna): Known as the ‘Dalawella Swing Beach’ due to the famous rope swing (pay a small fee to use it). The shallow, reef-protected waters make it ideal for swimming.
- Galle Fort Clock Tower Walk: Take a sunset stroll along the ramparts of Galle Fort, starting near the lighthouse and the clock tower. You’ll see locals playing cricket and jumping into the sea.
- Moonstone Mines (Meetiyagoda): A short trip inland from Hikkaduwa, you can tour a working moonstone mine and see the entire process from extraction to cutting.
- Ambalangoda Mask Museum: Visit this museum and workshop north of Hikkaduwa to learn about the traditional Sri Lankan masks used for healing and cultural dances, and see artisans carving new ones.
Top Restaurants
Mettha’s Home Cooked Meals [$5-$10] – A humble, no-frills, family-run spot in Unawatuna known for serving some of the best, most authentic, and cheapest rice and curry in the area, often changing daily.
Home Grown Rice & Curry Restaurant [$5-$10] – A highly-regarded local favorite in Hikkaduwa, offering traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry in a homely, welcoming setting with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Jina’s Vegetarian And Vegan Restaurant [$5-$10] – A popular, unpretentious, family-run cafe in Unawatuna offering a legendary Sri Lankan rice and curry lunch set meal, alongside its standard vegetarian/vegan Indian and Mexican menu.
Canal View [$5-$15] – Located slightly away from the main Hikkaduwa strip in a quiet garden setting, this spot is highly praised for its authentic Sri Lankan cooking, with their fish curry and dhal being local favorites.
Ranjith Café [$5-$10] – An unassuming, roadside local spot in Hikkaduwa that consistently serves up some of the best, most authentic, and budget-friendly traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry.
Mati Gedara [$10-$15] – Located in Unawatuna, this restaurant serves authentic traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry, with a rustic charm where food is often served in earthenware bowls; their veggie buffet is a local favorite.
Happy Spice Restaurant & Cooking Class [$10-$20] – Offers authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in Unawatuna and is also known for its hands-on cooking classes, allowing you to taste and learn local flavors.
Wasantha’s Sri Lanka Cuisine [$10-$20] – A great spot in Unawatuna to discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors, known for its delicious dishes and also offering engaging cooking classes.
No. 1 Roti Restaurant [$5-$10] – A famous Hikkaduwa roadside spot to enjoy stuffed rotis bursting with flavor, offering a variety of savory and sweet options—a classic cheap eat.
The Hut Roti Shop [$5-$10] – Another popular spot in Unawatuna known for serving delicious, inexpensive rotis, both savory (like vegetable or egg) and sweet (with chocolate or banana).
Southern Cool Spot [$5-$10] – Offers affordable, basic local food for takeaway in Hikkaduwa, known for its traditional Sri Lankan fast-food and short eats.
National Tea Room [$5-$10] – A no-frills spot, often in nearby Galle Fort, where you can get a super cheap, simple, and filling traditional Sri Lankan breakfast of dhal, coconut rotti, or string hoppers.
Shifting Sands CAFÉ [$5-$15] – Offers authentic Sri Lankan flavors in Unawatuna, a must-visit dining destination for local food enthusiasts.
New That’s It – Unawatuna Restaurant [$10-$20] – Known for authentic Sri Lankan flavors, this restaurant provides a genuine local dining experience.
Sunrise Seafood Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located at the far end of Unawatuna Beach, this unassuming eatery is famous for its fresh seafood platter, often featuring lobster, crab, tuna, and prawns, cooked with local spices like lemongrass and chili.
Tigri Seafood Restaurant [$20-$40] – A small, charming Hikkaduwa spot with an amazing sunset view, renowned for its fresh seafood platter and fish cooked to perfection with butter and rosemary.
Samson Seafood Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offers fresh seafood delights in Unawatuna, where every dish is said to reflect local flavor and tradition.
Fish Hunter Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located in Unawatuna, this restaurant provides unparalleled seafood delights, focusing on freshness and flavor against a stunning coastal view.
Bluefin Seafood Resturant [$15-$30] – Known for culinary bliss in Unawatuna, this spot features fresh catches and stunning ocean views.
Summer Garden Seafood Restaurant [$15-$30] – Experience culinary bliss at this Unawatuna restaurant, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
Shark Cafe Seafood Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offers fresh seafood delights in Unawatuna, where ocean flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Koko’s on the beach [$15-$30] – Situated right on Unawatuna beach, this spot offers gorgeous, fresh, and well-cooked food, including a great grilled prawns with lime and garlic.
Blue Crab [$15-$30] – Located in Unawatuna, this restaurant is known for its fresh, well-cooked seafood, which often justifies a bit of a wait for the kitchen.
Wijaya Beach Restaurant [$15-$30] – While popular, this spot near Unawatuna is highly recommended for its picturesque waterside dining and array of international and Asian fusion seafood dishes.
Neelas Beach [$15-$30] – Offers a beautiful setting right on the beach in Hikkaduwa, known for its selection of fresh seafood.
JLH [$20-$40] – A Hikkaduwa restaurant that offers daily fresh lobster and other premium seafood options.
Bedspace Kitchen [$15-$25] – A popular Unawatuna spot with a modern vibe, serving up mouth-watering Sri Lankan cuisine made from locally sourced organic ingredients, alongside excellent international dishes.
The Drunken Monkey [$10-$20] – A laid-back spot in Hikkaduwa that serves delightful curries and excellent creative cocktails in a welcoming atmosphere.
Salty Swamis [$15-$25] – A stylish Hikkaduwa café with “Bali vibes,” popular with surfers and known for its high-quality Western brunch, including fish tacos, Korean rice bowls, and great coffee.
Skinny Tom’s Deli [$10-$20] – A great spot in Unawatuna for a Western/Sri Lankan fusion brunch, famous for its poached egg hoppers and shakshuka hoppers, along with excellent coffee.
The Hideout Taqueria [$15-$25] – A vibrant Mexican-inspired restaurant and bar in Unawatuna, tucked away on the second floor, known for its delicious tacos (like pulled beef and cauliflower) and burritos with a Sri Lankan twist.
Spaghetti and Co. Restaurant [$15-$25] – A beloved Italian eatery in Hikkaduwa, known for its delectable, wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta dishes, often with a beach view.
Hello Burger [$10-$20] – Exactly what it sounds like: a popular Hikkaduwa burger joint known for its big portions of beef, chicken, and veggie options—a great change from curry.
Yummy Restaurant [$10-$20] – A culinary haven in Unawatuna where local flavors meet international cuisine in a diverse menu.
Society Unawatuna [$15-$25] – A place for exceptional dining in a vibrant coastal setting, where fresh ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Mama San [$15-$25] – Located in Unawatuna, this restaurant offers a fusion of traditional Sri Lankan flavors and modern cuisine.
Elita Restaurant [$20-$35] – A well-regarded spot in Galle Fort (easily accessible from Unawatuna) known for its fresh seafood and high-quality Sri Lankan and Western dishes in a more refined setting.
The Palm Bar & Grill [$20-$35] – Situated in a boutique hotel, this offers a higher-end grill experience, often focusing on fresh meats and seafood with creative presentation, a short drive from the main beaches.
Riff (Rooftop Restaurant) [$30-$50] – A higher-end Hikkaduwa spot with a rooftop restaurant offering amazing sea views, specializing in high-quality sushi and more premium seafood dishes.
Korean Food Beach Restaurant [$15-$25] – Offers authentic Korean cuisine with stunning ocean views in Unawatuna, a unique international option in the area.
ROCKY GARDEN Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located in a slightly secluded spot near Unawatuna/Jungle Beach, this place offers a fantastic ocean-view dining experience with a menu of fresh seafood and local cuisine.
The Rock [$15-$30] – Offers exquisite dining in Unawatuna with local flavors and stunning views, known for its unique, rocky location.
Zest [$15-$25] – A Hikkaduwa spot that often focuses on high-quality, international comfort food like gourmet burgers, steaks, and pasta, catering to those wanting a break from local cuisine.
Kingfisher Restaurant And Lounge Bar [$20-$40] – Located on Unawatuna beach, it serves Asian fusion cuisine and seafood, having been a popular fixture for decades among locals, expats, and tourists for its quality food.
Pink Elephant [$20-$40] – Known for exquisite dining in Unawatuna, where local flavors meet tropical ambiance for a memorable culinary journey.
Why House [$30-$50] – The restaurant within a boutique villa hotel (a short drive from Unawatuna), offering high-quality, delish food in a lush, peaceful garden setting, often a mix of Sri Lankan and Western.
Steffi’s Mandala [$15-$25] – A Hikkaduwa vegetarian-friendly spot known for its colorful Buddha bowls, vegan curries, and smoothies, with a relaxed, boho vibe.
The Charly Cafe and Restaurant [$10-$20] – Offers culinary excellence in Unawatuna where local flavors meet international cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Hot Rock [$10-$20] – A family-run spot on Unawatuna Beach with amazing ocean views, specializing in Sri Lankan cuisine and is particularly known for its pork-based dishes.
Sky Breeze [$15-$25] – Offers exquisite dining in Unawatuna with local flavors and international cuisine amidst stunning coastal views.
Black And White Restaurant [$15-$30] – An upscale restaurant on Unawatuna beach with white umbrellas and a perfect setting for a nice evening with a sea breeze.
Koha Surf Lounge [$15-$25] – A vibrant beachfront spot in Unawatuna with relaxed tropical vibes and a menu featuring fresh seafood, healthy bowls, and international favorites.
The Hideout [$15-$25] – A popular Mexican spot in Unawatuna, offering a unique dining experience away from the traditional beachfront scene.
Dine with a Local [$5-$15] – Many smaller guesthouses and local homes (especially in the Hikkaduwa inland areas) offer to cook a traditional rice and curry meal for guests or passersby; look for small signs on the main Galle Road or ask a local tuk-tuk driver for a recommendation. This is the most authentic, non-touristy experience.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Kingfisher Restaurant & Bar: Found right on Unawatuna Beach, this popular spot offers cocktails with your feet in the sand and is famous for its stunning sunset views.
The Palms Beach Bar & Restaurant: Located towards the northern end of Unawatuna Beach, this bar offers a chill atmosphere, comfortable bean bags, and a wide selection of tropical cocktails.
WeliWatta Beach Bar: Situated on the quieter side of Weligama Beach (a short ride from Unawatuna), this relaxed, open-air bar is a great spot for drinks after a surf session.
Lucky Tuna: An iconic, long-standing establishment on Unawatuna Beach, offering simple but excellent cocktails and fresh seafood with a relaxed, rustic charm.
Calm Beach Bar: Nestled on the main stretch of Hikkaduwa Beach, this bar is known for its friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere, and refreshing tropical drinks, perfect for a beach day and evening.
Rooftop Bar at Hotel J, Unawatuna: Offering a stunning view overlooking the ocean in Unawatuna, this modern rooftop bar provides a more sophisticated setting for classic cocktails.
Top Secret Beach Restaurant & Bar: A favorite on Hikkaduwa Beach, this bar provides a perfect blend of a laid-back vibe during the day and a lively spot for evening cocktails before the main party starts.
Scarlet Martini: Tucked away slightly inland in Unawatuna, this bar is known for its intimate setting and focus on well-crafted, signature martinis and other premium drinks.
Mambo’s: Famous for its beachfront location and casual vibe right on Hikkaduwa Beach, it’s a great place to start the evening with a classic Sri Lankan Arrack cocktail.
The Garden: A cozy, hidden bar located just off the main road in Unawatuna, offering a tranquil garden setting for enjoying a quiet drink away from the beach crowds.
Soul Beach: Found a little further down the coast towards Dalawella (near Unawatuna), this stylish spot serves creative cocktails in a gorgeous, semi-private beach setting.
Why House: Located inland in Galle (a short tuk-tuk ride from Unawatuna), this boutique hotel’s bar offers a more upscale, peaceful setting for pre-dinner cocktails in a lush garden.
Salty Swamis: This popular spot in Hikkaduwa offers a great mix of specialty coffee, healthy food, and a small, curated cocktail menu for a refreshing afternoon or early evening drink.
Coral Rock By Amaya Beach Bar: Located in Hikkaduwa, this hotel bar provides a comfortable, covered setting overlooking the beach, ideal for evening drinks with friends.
Mambo’s (The Club): The most legendary party spot on Hikkaduwa Beach, known for its massive Saturday night parties, live DJs, and crowded dance floor right on the sand.
Vibrations Beach Club: A major player in the Hikkaduwa party scene, hosting large-scale parties, especially on Friday nights, attracting a big crowd with commercial and electronic music.
Top Secret Beach Restaurant & Bar (The Party): Located on Hikkaduwa Beach, this venue transforms from a casual restaurant into a vibrant club several nights a week, with different themes and DJs.
The Den (at Riff Hikkaduwa): A newer, more modern club experience situated in the Hikkaduwa area, offering a state-of-the-art sound system and a contemporary nightlife atmosphere.
Reggae Bar: A well-known venue on Unawatuna Beach that often hosts parties, especially on the weekend, offering a mix of reggae and commercial dance music with a chilled-out vibe.
Funky De Bar: A lively and long-standing fixture on Unawatuna Beach, this bar and club is a go-to for dancing and late-night drinks, especially popular with backpackers.
Kohno: An energetic beachside club in Hikkaduwa that frequently hosts themed parties and events, ensuring a packed dance floor most nights of the week.
The Fortress: Located further down the coast in Koggala (easily accessible from Unawatuna), this luxury hotel sometimes hosts special events or club nights, offering a high-end party experience.
Jungle Party (Location Varies): A legendary, although somewhat sporadic, party held in a secret location in the jungle near Unawatuna/Galle. It requires a tuk-tuk ride and is famous for its unique atmosphere and trance/house music.
The Other Side: A popular evening spot in Hikkaduwa that often features live music or a DJ, offering a slightly alternative but consistently fun night out.
Bunker Disco: A dedicated, cave-like disco located in the Hikkaduwa area, offering a proper indoor club environment with modern lighting and loud music.
Boom Box: A small, vibrant club in Unawatuna that specializes in hip-hop, R&B, and commercial hits, offering a change of pace from the typical beach bar scene.
The Club at Black Sands: Located slightly outside the main Unawatuna hub, this is a dedicated, stylish venue that hosts regular club nights with international and local DJs.