Mirissa Beach in Sri Lanka

A little town called Mirissa may be found in the Southern Province's Matara District on Sri Lanka's southern coast. It is about 4 meters (13 feet) above sea level and around 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Colombo. One of the most well-liked surfing beaches in Sri Lanka is Mirissa beach. The bay's western edge, close to Weligama beach, produces stronger waves that are ideal for surfing. In Mirissa, between November and March, when the surf is at its peak, is the best time to go surfing. The beach in Mirissa is the ideal location for snorkeling. Near the coast of Mirissa Beach, there are several reefs and rocks where marine life may be spotted. The ideal location for snorkeling is on Mirissa Beach's right side.

Whale and dolphin viewing is getting more and more well-liked in Mirissa. Blue whales, Bryde's whales, Sperm whales, Fin whales, and occasionally Killer whales as well as Common dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Spinner dolphins, Risso's dolphins, and Striped dolphins will all be visible to you. Turtles and numerous fish species, such as blue fin tuna and flying fish, are occasionally seen. The season for whale viewing runs from November to April. Additionally, the numerous fishing boats that arrive with their harvest in the early morning hours are a sight to behold.

The nightlife at Mirissa Beach, which is a well-liked tourist attraction, making it perfect for surfing and sea bathing. Many of the small, quaint eateries in Mirissa are located right on the beach. At fair pricing, one may find fresh seafood, traditional Sri Lankan dishes, and foreign delicacies. There are several lodging alternatives, ranging from welcoming, family-run guesthouses to compact, boutique-style hotels.

History

The major fishing port on the south coast is Mirissa, which is well-known for its butterfish, mullet, snapper, and tuna. The town's initial tourist accommodations were constructed in 1980, but tourism didn't begin to really expand until the mid-1990s.

Things To Do

Parrot rock

A bridge connects the Parrot Rock, a tiny island, to Mirissa Beach. Mirissa Beach lies just in front of Parrot Rock, a large red mound that dominates the surrounding ocean. Due to the stunning views of the palm tree-lined beaches below, it has become one of the greatest things to do in Mirissa.

You'll need to investigate the tides because Parrot Rock is out at sea; low tide is the best time to cross because you won't get wet. In particular during the monsoon season when the waves will be strong, crossing during high tide might be risky.

When you get to the rock, ascend using the shaky stairs. You may enjoy lovely views of Mirissa from here. Sunset is a very popular time to go, but it may become busy. We advise waking up early and climbing at sunrise because of this. You may observe the Mirissa skyline at this time and enjoy the gorgeous early morning pinks and oranges as the light filters through the lush palm palms.

Coconut Tree Hill

One of the best things to do in Mirissa and one of Sri Lanka's most Instagrammable locations is Coconut Tree Hill. Just 15 minutes on foot will get you to the private coconut plantation, which has some of the nicest views in the vicinity.

Once you've ascended the hill, the headland spreads out in front of you, giving you breathtaking views of the ocean through the numerous sagging palm palms. To get the best shots, we advise going at sunrise when less people are around.

Google Maps will show you where Coconut Tree Hill is. You may stroll down the beach if the weather is agreeable and the tide is low. Be warned that you could occasionally have to walk through water. In that case, you might stroll along the highway that follows the shoreline.

Secret Beach

Previously, only locals were aware of this picture-perfect V-shaped beach with swaying palm palms. However, more and more travelers discovered this Secret Beach since it appears on Google Maps. The Secret Beach Pub, a neighborhood bar, is the ideal spot for lunch, a drink, and some downtime in the shade and is hidden away among the trees.

On this headland, there are three lovely beaches to select from, each with special features like rockpools and coconut palm palms. Spend the day swimming in the clear blue sea, snorkeling amid the amazing marine life (be on the lookout for turtles! ), and taking it all in at this little piece of paradise.

Whales Watching

The best site to see whales is in Mirissa. The optimum time to visit Mirissa during the whale-watching season is November to April, But best chance is March or April. If you're lucky, you could get to view a variety of whale and dolphin species. For instance, off the coast of Mirissa, whales such as blue whales, bryde's whales, sperm whales, fin whales, and orcas have all been observed. Common dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Spinner dolphins, Risso's dolphins, and Striped dolphins are more species that can be seen. Additionally, there is a probability that you may observe turtles and numerous fish species. For example, Bluefin tuna and flying fish, so there are lots of options to spot marine life during a whale watching tour in Mirissa.

Weligama

Weligama, a little seaside community, is well renowned as the birthplace of surfing. Surfers from all over the world come here to take advantage of the amazing waves and stunning white-sand beaches. As a result, there is also a top-notch tourist infrastructure, including a large number of hip pubs, cafés, restaurants, and beach resorts. Spend the day at Weligama and schedule a surf instruction at one of the several surf schools that line the beach.

Mirissa Eco Lagoon

This lovely eco cruise on the Mirissa Eco Lagoon is a must do if you're a nature lover searching for a peaceful and perhaps even romantic experience away from the bustling surf beaches of Mirissa. You will explore the lake and mangrove with the help of a basic boat and a local guide, where you may see a variety of intriguing creatures including leaping fish, monitor lizards, and fruit bats as dusk falls. You could be the only people on the lagoon, if you're lucky. You have the impression that you are in another universe because of the calm surroundings. As the sun sets, you will be offered tea and delectable pancakes while seated in the center of the ocean. A singular experience that you must have.

The Stilt Fisherman

You will pass the beach where you may observe the stilt fishermen if you're headed to Unawatuna or Galle. You may find this ancient, traditional form of fishing in Sri Lanka in Kogalla and Dalawella beaches, which needs a lot of ability and balance. The stilt fisherman barely casts any shadows and disturbs the marine life because he is perched a few meters above the water. Because of this, they have a better chance of capturing their prey. Even though this is a genuine Sri Lankan custom, the "fisherman" currently just sits there for visitors.

Unawatuna Beach

The most well-known beach on the island is Unawatuna Beach, one of Sri Lanka's most popular tourist sites. It is a stunning beach with golden sand, blue sea, and green palm palms in the shape of a banana. However, this beach is also one of the busiest spots because it is one of the more well-known beaches in Sri Lanka. However, if you live in Mirissa and are searching for something new to discover, it is a good day trip.

Japanese Peace Pagoda

The majestic Japanese Peace Pagoda is situated on a slope in the forest not far from Unawatuna beach. The monument, which was built in 2005 by Japanese monks to create peace temples in warring areas, represents hope for people all across the world. It is currently a well-liked tourist destination and offers stunning views of Galle Bay, making it the ideal spot to witness the magnificent Sri Lankan sunsets.

Dondra Head Lighthouse

The southernmost point of Sri Lanka is Dondra Head, where Dondra Head Lighthouse is situated. With a height of 47 meters, Dondra Lighthouse is among the highest lighthouses in all of South East Asia. The Sri Lanka Ports Authority still runs and maintains the lights, which were established by the British in 1889.

Doctors House (Mathara)

Are you prepared for a fun afternoon party with a surf theme? You should go to The Doctors House! The spacious courtyard includes live music, delicious cuisine, and the ideal relaxed atmosphere. Furthermore, Matara is approximately a 15-minute drive away.

Galle Fort

The Galle Fort, located in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, was first constructed by the Portuguese in 1588 and then completely reinforced by the Dutch beginning in 1649. It is a historical, archaeological, and architectural cultural monument that, although having stood for more than 432 years, still presents well thanks to considerable rebuilding work carried out by the Sri Lankan Archaeological Department.

The population of the fort is multi-ethnic and multi-religious today, and it has a rich past. The Sri Lankan government is looking into making this one of the modern wonders of the world, together with numerous Dutch people who still own some of the homes inside the fort. As a result of its distinctive display of "an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries," the fort has been recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for its heritage value and has been listed as a cultural heritage UNESCO World Heritage Site under criteria iv.

Read : https://zeloan.blogspot.com/2022/07/galle-fort.html

Hiriketiya Beach

Dikwella, sometimes known as Dickwella locally, is a nearby town that has grown significantly in popularity with tourists traveling to Sri Lanka's south coast. These magnificent coastal communities, which we adore, were made possible by the laid-back way of life and surf vibes at Hiriketiya Beach and Dikwella. It still has that raw, unspoiled feel about it even if it isn't as well-kept a secret as it once was.

This beach is where the forest meets the sea, and palm palms surround the shoreline. Rustic, neighborhood eateries offer beverages right next to the ocean. If a laid-back lifestyle is what you're after, make your way directly to Sri Lanka's Hiriketiya Beach since the laid-back environment is hard to top. This hidden beach has a sleepy feeling.

Read : https://zeloan.blogspot.com/2022/07/hiriketiya-beach-in-sri-lanka.html

Lankagama

Lankagama is a great destination for those that enjoy the outdoors. It is situated close to the Sinharaja rain forest in Sri Lanka's southern region. Through Deniyaya, travelers may go to Lankagama from Galle.

This is a wonderful location to take in and appreciate Sri Lanka's natural beauty. Lankagama is rich in many waterfalls, kinds of vegetation, animals, tea plantation estates, and distinctive rural lifestyles that leave tourists with unforgettable experiences. Anyone visiting Lankagama will have rejuvenating experiences from these natural buddies to balance out their hectic life.

Read : https://zeloan.blogspot.com/2022/09/lankagama-in-sri-lanka.html

Best time to Visit

The ideal months to travel to Mirissa are January, February, March, July, August, and September since these are the months with the highest likelihood of bright sky. However, July and August are the busiest months since this is when many families come to town for the summer vacation. The ideal months to travel are February, March, April, June, or September to escape the crowds.

How to Get

Road

From Airport : Take the Katunayake Colombo Expressway (E03) / Outer Circular Highway (E02) / Southern Expressway (E01) to Mirissa (Exit from the 11th interchange Godagama)

Take the Puttalam - Colombo main road (A003) / Colombo – Matara main Road (A002).

Train

From Colombo : Take the Southern Railway (Colombo/Matara) disembark at Weligama station and a 15 minutes Tuk Tuk (Taxi) drive away (The train will stop at Mirissa station but availability of Taxis are unlikely.

Air

If you are travelling by Air you can either charter an Air Taxi or a Helicopter from the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) or from Colombo and land in Koggala Aerodrome which is approx. 22 Kms (14 Miles) to Mirissa.

Google Map:

https://goo.gl/maps/vejehSwXayj6KTGX9