Mirissa: Beach Days, Whales, and Coconut Tree Hill
Mirissa is a crescent of sand on the south coast that turns from a lazy beach by day into a string of seafood grills and bars by night. It is also the country's main base for whale watching.
The beach and surf
The main bay is good for swimming and beginner surf, with board rental and lessons on the sand. Little Mirissa at the eastern end is quieter, and a small rocky island at the west is a fun scramble at low tide.
Whale watching
Boats leave before dawn in season (roughly November to April) in search of blue whales, the largest animals on earth, plus sperm whales and dolphins. Choose an operator that follows the guidelines and does not crowd the animals.
Coconut Tree Hill
A cluster of leaning palms on a headland east of the beach is one of the most photographed spots on the south coast. Go early, it gets busy, and remember it is a fragile, much-loved place.
Nearby
Weligama's beginner waves are ten minutes west, the stilt fishermen of Koggala are a short drive, and Galle Fort is under an hour up the coast.
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