TANGALLE & HIRIKETIYA
Tangalle and Hiriketiya offer the perfect blend of raw, stunning South Coast beauty and sophisticated, laid-back beach life. This is where palm-fringed bays meet turquoise waters, creating a tranquil paradise.
The area is a hub for slow travel, famous for its crescent-shaped beaches and easygoing surf culture. It’s a sanctuary for relaxation, wellness, and exploring Sri Lanka’s untouched nature and seaside charm.
Most Popular Attractions
Beaches & Coastline Sanctuaries:
Hiriketiya Beach: A small, horseshoe-shaped bay famous for its beginner surf waves, calm atmosphere, and vibrant beachside cafés.
Tangalle Beach (Medilla to Seenimodera): A long stretch of golden sand known for its dramatic waves, serene quietness, and beautiful sunsets.
Goyambokka Beach: A small, picturesque cove just north of Tangalle, perfect for swimming and sunbathing away from the crowds.
Marakolliya Beach: A long, beautiful stretch of beach backed by palm trees, ideal for long walks and seeing local fishing boats.
Dikwella Beach: A wider, less-developed beach near Hiriketiya, offering a quieter alternative for relaxation.
Silent Beach (Pahala Marakolliya): Considered one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in the area, offering a truly tranquil escape.
Nature, Wildlife & Scenic Views:
Humasgiriya Blow Hole (Kudawella Blow Hole): The second-largest blowhole in Sri Lanka, where ocean waves are forced through a rock tunnel, creating a spectacular fountain.
Mulkirigala Rock Temple: A beautiful ancient rock temple perched on a 673-foot high natural rock, featuring impressive cave paintings and a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Mawella Lagoon: A large, peaceful lagoon near Dikwella, perfect for kayaking, boat trips, and birdwatching.
Wewurukannala Vihara: Home to the largest seated Buddha statue in Sri Lanka, offering a glimpse into the island’s Buddhist heritage.
Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary: A significant wetland area and a haven for various local and migratory bird species, great for eco-tourism.
Rekawa Turtle Watch: A community-run project where visitors can observe five species of sea turtles nesting and laying eggs, particularly during the nesting season.
Gomareliya Natural Pool: A natural sea pool formed by rocks, offering a calm and safe place to swim even when the ocean is rough.
Culture, Wellness & Local Experience:
Tangalle Fish Market: A lively, bustling morning market where local fishermen bring in their daily catch, offering a vibrant cultural experience.
Yoga & Wellness Retreats: The area, especially Hiriketiya, is famous for its numerous yoga studios and wellness centers offering daily classes and retreats.
Tuk-Tuk Safari to Local Villages: Taking a local tuk-tuk ride through the surrounding cinnamon and rice paddy fields to see rural life.
Devi Nuwara/Dondra Head Lighthouse: The southernmost point of Sri Lanka, home to a historic lighthouse and a beautiful temple dedicated to the God Vishnu.
Sri Subodha Raja Maha Viharaya: A local Buddhist temple with colorful murals and a calm atmosphere.
Surfing Lessons at Hiriketiya: Taking a lesson at the mellow main break, which is ideal for beginners and longboarders.
Eating Fresh Seafood at Beach Shack Restaurants: Experiencing the daily catch grilled on the beach at sunset, a quintessential Tangalle experience.
Discovering Local Coconut Oil Production: Visiting a small, family-run production unit to see the traditional process of making virgin coconut oil.
Activities & Experiences
Learn to Surf at Hiriketiya Beach: Take beginner lessons at the gentle beach break in ‘Hiri’ (Hiriketiya) or, for more experienced surfers, tackle the reef break on the point.
Relax at Silent Beach: Visit this beautiful, secluded stretch of sand just east of Tangalle. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and escaping the main crowds.
Go Turtle Watching at Rekawa Beach: Join a guided night tour to witness endangered sea turtles (Green, Loggerhead, and Olive Ridley) coming ashore to lay their eggs, particularly during the peak season (April to September).
Explore the Mulkirigala Rock Temple: Climb the hundreds of steps to this magnificent ancient rock temple complex. The site offers stunning views and features beautiful murals and reclining Buddha statues dating back over 2,000 years.
Take a Traditional Sri Lankan Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic dishes like rice and curry, sambols, and hoppers from a local family or guesthouse chef.
Visit the Hummanaya Blow Hole: Witness one of the few natural blow holes in the world, where water shoots high into the air, especially powerful during the monsoon season.
Cycle Through the Paddy Fields: Rent a bicycle and explore the lush, green inland area behind the coast, cycling through local villages, rice paddies, and past serene temples.
Go on a Lagoon Safari/Boat Trip: Take a peaceful boat ride through the Tangalle lagoon, where you can spot diverse birdlife, monitor lizards, and local fishermen.
Indulge in an Ayurvedic Treatment: Book a traditional Ayurvedic massage or a full treatment package at one of the many wellness centers in the area, focusing on natural remedies and holistic health.
Shop for Local Handicrafts: Browse the small shops and stalls in Tangalle town for locally made goods, including hand-carved masks, batik fabrics, and natural spices.
Practice Yoga in Hiriketiya: Join a sunrise or sunset yoga session at one of the many dedicated studios near Hiriketiya beach, a perfect way to start or end the day.
Local Tips & Transport
Tuk-Tuks are King: Tuk-tuks are the primary and most convenient mode of local transport. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey. A short ride between Tangalle town and Hiriketiya beach should be a set, nominal fee.
Motorbike Rental: For independent exploration of the surrounding areas (like Mulkirigala or the Blow Hole), renting a scooter/motorbike is a popular and affordable option. Ensure you have the correct license and wear a helmet.
Local Buses: The main bus station is in Tangalle town. Local buses are extremely cheap but can be crowded and often play very loud music. They are a great way to travel along the coast (e.g., to Matara or Galle) and offer an authentic local experience.
Train Access: The closest major railway station is in Matara. From there, you can catch the scenic train to Colombo or use local transport to get to Tangalle. Trains are highly recommended for the coastal views.
Walking between Beaches: The walk between the main Tangalle bay and Hiriketiya can be done via the coast or the main road, but a short tuk-tuk ride is more common, especially in the heat.
Beach Etiquette: While Hiriketiya is relaxed, be mindful on the main Tangalle beach and when exploring local villages. Swimwear should be reserved for the beach. Cover up (shoulders and knees) when walking through villages or visiting temples.
Temple Visits: When visiting the Mulkirigala Rock Temple or other sacred sites, you must remove your hat and shoes. It is also customary to wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders as a sign of respect.
The Ocean is Powerful: The beautiful coastline, especially in Tangalle, can have strong currents and large waves. Always check local conditions before swimming and look for designated safe swimming areas or lagoons.
Tipping/Baksheesh: Tipping is not mandatory but is widely appreciated for good service. For tuk-tuks, you can round up the fare. For meals, a small percentage is normal.
Drinking Water: Do not drink tap water. Bottled water is readily available. Many guesthouses offer purified water refills to help reduce plastic waste—always ask!
Hidden Gems:
- The Unawatuna-style Swing: While many beach swings exist, finding a sunset swing on one of the less-crowded stretches of sand near Tangalle offers a fantastic, quieter photo opportunity.
- Tangalle Market (Wednesdays): Visit the lively weekly market in Tangalle town for fresh produce, spices, local sweets, and an authentic glimpse into local life away from the main tourist strip.
- The Kudawella Fishing Harbour: Head here in the early morning to see the local fishing boats returning with their catch and experience a bustling, authentic slice of Sri Lankan coastal life.
Language: The official languages are Sinhala and Tamil. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, guesthouses, and restaurants, but learning a few phrases like Ayubowan (hello/may you live long) and Isthuthi (thank you) will be very well received.
Top Restaurants
Garlic Cafe [$5-$10] – A highly-regarded local spot known for its delicious traditional food, large portions, and unbeatable prices, especially the chicken kottu and dhal curry.
Duni’s Hoppers [$5-$10] – A popular, cozy little cafe celebrated for serving some of the best hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes) in the area, perfect for a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast or brunch.
Roti Hut [$5-$10] – A humble street food stand on Hiriketiya Road, it’s the go-to spot for cheap, delicious sweet and savory rotis, rolls, and kottu.
Hiriketiya Seafood Restaurant [$5-$15] – A no-frills, budget-friendly gem that surprises visitors with incredibly fresh and tasty seafood cooked in a traditional style.
Lemon Grass Cafe [$5-$15] – A family-run establishment known for serving all the Sri Lankan classics, with a particular reputation for some of the best kottu and curries in the region.
Beach House Hiriketiya Restaurant [$5-$15] – Known for having one of the best and most affordable rice and curry buffets in Hiriketiya, this spot offers a beautiful, relaxed atmosphere away from the main beach crowds.
Jayantha Restaurant [$5-$10] – Located in Dikwella town, this roadside buffet is a favorite for its delicious, authentic, and super cheap traditional rice & curry, with the menu varying daily.
Pumpkin Cafe [$5-$10] – The sister restaurant to Garlic Cafe, offering similar excellent, budget-friendly Sri Lankan traditional food near Dickwella Beach.
Kingsley Hot Kitchen [$5-$15] – A local favorite praised for its tasty traditional meals, with generous portions and a very friendly, authentic Sri Lankan atmosphere.
Think Club [$5-$15] – Located right on Goyambokka beach, this humble beach shack has a great sign (“Father fishes and son cooks”) and is known for its cold beer and excellent, simple prawns.
Dream Family [$5-$15] – Tucked away inland, this simple open-sided dining venue specializes in authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, including kottu roti and seafood curry served in huge portions.
Machan Place [$5-$15] – Known for serving delicious Sri Lankan street food, smoothies, and drinks, it’s a great choice for an affordable and casual meal.
Turtle Landing Restaurant [$10-$20] – A delightful, wallet-friendly spot on Tangalle Beach offering a tempting array of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and fresh seafood, often right on the sand.
Cactus Lounge Restaurant [$10-$25] – A hidden gem on the beach in Tangalle known for some of the best and most affordable fresh seafood, like cuttlefish, prawns, and lobster, cooked with local spices.
Dilena Beach Inn Seafood Restaurant [$10-$25] – An unpretentious Tangalle venue specializing in seafood, offering an ample range of local and international dishes with unbeatable ocean vistas.
Oceana Beach Cafe and Seafood Restaurant [$10-$25] – An open-sided venue on the beach in Tangalle that serves succulent seafood and contemporary Asian cuisine in a spacious interior with modern wooden furnishings.
Break Point Cafe and Restaurant [$10-$25] – A casual dining venue perched on a hilltop overlooking the Indian Ocean, family-run, and serving amazing homemade Sri Lankan cuisine alongside fresh grilled seafood.
The Lounge Tangalle [$15-$30] – A chic beachfront spot where you select your fresh fish, lobster, or crab from a display to be cooked to perfection with Sri Lankan spices.
Kura Place [$10-$20] – A tiny beach hut offering a choice of Western favorites alongside a few local dishes, with the option to sit right on the beach for a toes-in-the-sand experience.
Shasha Seafood [$10-$20] – A miniature shack-style seafront venue on a deserted beach, praised as an awesome local eatery for a romantic beachfront dining experience with super fresh seafood.
Little Pumpkin Cabanas [$10-$20] – Features a spacious open-sided dining lounge that overlooks the Indian Ocean, serving a wide selection of local dishes alongside Western favorites.
The Ruin Hiriketiya [$15-$30] – Located on the beach, this spot offers delicious Mexican-themed cuisine with local twists and well-crafted cocktails, popular for sunset views (Note: can be on the higher end of local pricing).
Smoke & Bitters [$20-$40] – Ranked among the top 50 bars in Asia, this cocktail bar and smokehouse, nestled in a coconut grove, offers a top-tier gastronomic experience with smoky cocktails and elevated small plates.
Bacuzzi [$15-$30] – Considered by many to have the best pizza in Hiriketiya, this Italian restaurant is run by a friendly Italian guy and serves fantastic wood-fired pizza with top-notch ingredients.
Dots Bay House [$15-$30] – A lively spot on Hiriketiya Beach that offers both great Western and local food, delicious cocktails, often with live music and a pool area lunch buffet during the day.
La Playa [$15-$30] – Although it feels a bit like a beach club, the food is affordable and delicious, offering a mix of local and international dishes with plenty of vegetarian options.
Blue Bay Chill Out Lounge [$15-$30] – A hidden gem in Hiriketiya that is hands down one of the best spots to savor incredibly fresh seafood, often pairing steamed tuna with coconut rice.
The Ruin Hiriketiya [$15-$30] – Known for its stunning beach views and a unique, delicious fusion of Mexican and local flavors, especially the tacos and ceviche (can be expensive but worth it).
Malu Poke [$10-$15] – Specializes in customizable poke bowls filled with fresh seafood and a variety of toppings, a great international choice for a quick, healthy meal.
Salt House [$10-$20] – Aside from healthy bowls, this relaxed spot is also known for serving fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas.
Oceana Beach Cafe and Seafood Restaurant [$10-$25] – Offers a diverse menu of succulent seafood and contemporary Asian cuisine in a beautiful beachfront setting in Tangalle.
Cactus Lounge Restaurant [$10-$25] – Located right on the beach in Tangalle, it’s famous for its fresh catches like cuttlefish, prawns, and lobster, prepared with local flavor.
Break Point Cafe and Restaurant [$10-$25] – Puts focus on fresh grilled seafood and amazing homemade Sri Lankan cuisine from its hilltop perch with ocean views.
Il Mare [$25-$50] – An exquisite fine-dining venue perched on a small hill in Tangalle, specializing in eclectic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, including seafood risotto and thin-crust pizza.
The Lounge Tangalle [$15-$30] – Offers fresh seafood and barbecue options alongside delicious cocktails and a fun atmosphere, with the option to choose your fish fresh from the display.
Turtle Landing Restaurant [$10-$20] – Known for its amazing bargain-priced Sri Lankan cuisine and a good range of seafood like garlic butter prawns and lobster.
Shasha Seafood [$10-$20] – Highly recommended for its fresh crab and prawns, cooked to order in a simple, authentic local way, often enjoyed in candlelight by the sea.
Dilena Beach Inn Seafood Restaurant [$10-$25] – The specialty here is seafood, where you can choose your preferred method of preparation: grilled, steamed, or fried.
Kura Place [$10-$20] – Offers Western favorites and some local dishes, perfect for those craving international comfort food right on the beach.
Little Pumpkin Cabanas [$10-$20] – Serves a wide selection of local and Western dishes and is a good option for those seeking a break from purely Sri Lankan cuisine.
Garlic Cafe [$5-$10] – Excellent for budget travelers, offering huge portions of delicious kottu and curry at unbeatable local prices.
Roti Hut [$5-$10] – The ultimate cheap eat for a quick, simple, and satisfying sweet or savory roti, roll, or kottu right by the beach.
Duni’s Hoppers [$5-$10] – Essential for cheap and tasty hoppers, a local breakfast/snack staple.
Hiriketiya Seafood Restaurant [$5-$15] – Best for no-frills, budget seafood that tastes incredibly fresh.
Lemon Grass Cafe [$5-$15] – Offers the best value for Sri Lankan classics, especially their kottu and curry.
Jayantha Restaurant [$5-$10] – A genuine local roadside buffet experience for incredibly cheap and authentic rice & curry.
Beach House Hiriketiya Restaurant [$5-$15] – Known for its very affordable and high-quality rice and curry buffet (around 700 LKR, which is well under $5).
Pumpkin Cafe [$5-$10] – A fantastic alternative to Garlic Cafe for excellent traditional food on a budget.
Kingsley Hot Kitchen [$5-$15] – Great for a satisfying, budget-friendly meal with huge portions of traditional dishes.
Think Club [$5-$15] – A very simple, authentic beach shack on Goyambokka for a fresh, cheap catch of the day or prawns.
Dream Family [$5-$15] – Ideal for an authentic, huge portion of kottu roti or seafood curry without the high tourist prices.
Machan Place [$5-$15] – Good for quick, cheap, and tasty Sri Lankan street food.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Smoke & Bitters: Tucked away in a coconut grove on Pehebiya Beach (near Hiriketiya/Dickwella), this is an internationally acclaimed spot, frequently ranked among Asia’s best bars. It focuses on innovative, local-ingredient cocktails and is perfect for a proper, upscale sunset drink and dinner.
The Ruin Hiriketiya: Located right on Hiriketiya Bay, this beautiful beach restaurant and bar offers stunning sunset views and a Mexican-themed cuisine with local twists. They are highly praised for their well-crafted, delicious cocktails.
Verse Collective: Situated on the eastern side of Dickwella Beach, this stylish, multi-purpose venue (hostel, café, co-working) offers a great space to grab a cocktail while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Raa Hiriketiya: Found in Hiriketiya, this exciting spot offers a fusion of Sri Lankan and Western flavors. It’s a great choice for an evening cocktail followed by an unforgettable dinner in a stunning setting.
La Playa: A beachfront gem with a cool, funky vibe on Hiriketiya Beach, this spot is perfect for lounging by the pool while enjoying a cocktail. It has a chic, boho aesthetic reminiscent of a beach club.
Mond: Located a short walk from Hiriketiya Bay, this cafe and bar has a stunning rooftop with sweeping ocean views, specializing in craft cocktails and tasting plates in the evenings.
Taboo Rooftop Bar: Situated near Hiriketiya Bay, this spot boasts one of the best rooftop views in the area, often hosting fantastic music nights and serving up great cocktails several times a week.
The Lounge (Tangalle Beach): A favorite beachfront restaurant and bar on Tangalle Beach, famous for its cocktails, often featuring a cozy atmosphere and a relaxed setting right by the sand.
The Doctor’s House: Located slightly outside of the immediate Hiriketiya/Tangalle area, this well-known spot is popular for its laid-back atmosphere, good food, and great drinks in a cool, old colonial house setting.
Blue Bay Chill Out Lounge: A bit of a hidden gem in Hiriketiya, this place is right on the beach and is a wonderful spot for enjoying a chilled-out drink and seafood.
Beach House Hiri: Located on Hiriketiya Beach, this relaxed spot offers a great place for friends to gather in the evening for cocktails and maybe a game of pool or board games.
Silent Beach Bars: While unnamed and simple, the small, quiet beach bars spread across the tranquil Silent Beach (near Tangalle) are perfect for enjoying a simple beer or pre-dinner cocktail in a serene, secluded setting.
Tangalle Sunset Pool Bar: Found within a resort in Tangalle, this bar offers a pool with an ocean view. You can use the pool for a fee while enjoying cocktails and light bistro fare.
Dots Bay House: The biggest player in the Hiriketiya Bay nightlife scene. Dots regularly brings in DJs for lively Saturday night sessions. It also frequently hosts open mic nights and other fantastic events during the week.
The Doctor’s House: While also a great bar, this spot is famous for hosting large, weekly parties on Wednesday and Saturday nights, drawing crowds from all over the South Coast. It has a lively atmosphere with music and dancing, located between Hiriketiya and Weligama.
La Playa: This stylish beach club on Hiriketiya Beach can transform into a vibrant, high-end, boho party spot on certain evenings, especially during high season, offering music, cocktails, and a beautiful beachfront setting.
Taboo Rooftop Bar: Known for hosting regular music nights with DJs, its stunning rooftop setting near Hiriketiya provides a perfect mid-sized venue for a great night out with a party atmosphere.
ClearPoint: Located in Hiriketiya (a short walk from Salt House), this venue hosts a variety of themed nightlife events, from karaoke to its ‘Secret Jungle Party’ on a Saturday evening.
The Lounge (Tangalle Beach): This beachside restaurant/bar in Tangalle is known to host regular Friday night parties, providing a good option for dancing and music away from the Hiriketiya hub.
Doctor’s Bar (Tangalle Town): Situated in the tourist center of Tangalle, this is a popular stop for drinks and music that runs into the late evening, catering to a mix of locals and tourists.
Think Club (Tangalle): Despite its name, this is a simple, laid-back two-story beachfront bar in Tangalle, but it’s one of the few places along Tangalle beach that keeps a pulse of evening activity and music.
Past Hiriketiya Jungle Raves: While specific locations can be fluid and “underground,” Hiriketiya is known for its occasional, hidden jungle parties that continue into the early hours, offering a unique, bohemian party experience. Check local signs and ask around for current events.
Salt House: Although typically known for yoga, this location in Hiriketiya often hosts events and is a central social hub, especially for guests and nearby travelers, offering a lively evening atmosphere in its bar area.
Verse Collective: In addition to its great sunset vibe, Verse often hosts community-focused events, including music and cultural nights, providing a social and slightly party-like atmosphere on Dickwella Beach.
Pehebiya Beach Shack Bars: The eastern stretch of Dickwella Beach, closest to Hiriketiya, is lined with impromptu shack bars that serve strong cocktails and cold beers, often developing a lively, local-style party atmosphere on weekend nights.