South Coast of Sri Lanka Holidays

An array of beautiful beaches, trendy cafes and coconut palms edge Sri Lanka’s southern coastline. A favourite of surfers, October to March sees the coastal waters dotted with surfers of all abilities catching the waves, while onlookers lounge under the shade of palm trees and passionfruit vines, refreshments in hand. In the settlements of the south, boutique shops display attractive hand-crafted items and food stalls burst with refreshing king coconuts.

Journey along the coast by bicycle, tuk-tuk or car, to make the most of the numerous swathes of honey coloured sand beaches that edge the aquamarine Indian Ocean. Climb Parrot Rock on Marissa Beach to enjoy the view, and snorkel on the Secret Beach to discover the entrancing underwater landscape.

A varied past offers a feast for history enthusiasts, with evidence of the various ruling parties scattered across the island. One grand yet crumbling historical display can be found in the south western city of Galle. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fortified old city of Galle Fort, displays the architectural influence of the Portuguese, Dutch and British, all of whom added to the town’s size and grandeur.

From Galle, journey east along the coast to the island’s most southern point and view Dondra Head Lighthouse, with the Buddhist Gandara Temple and Matara City a short distance either side. Then continue on to the town of Tangalle, where visitors can relax on Tangalle beach, before hopping along the coast to explore the charming surrounding villages along the way.