← All districts

Southern Province

Matara District

Surf towns, whale coast, hidden coves.

Weligama's beginner surf, Mirissa's blue-whale boats, and Hiriketiya's picture-perfect bay stretch along one of the world's great coastal drives. Palms lean out over the sand from Dondra to Dikwella.

SurfingWhale watchingBeach villages

Main tourist attractions

What to see in Matara

3 destinations — with things to do, best time to visit, insider tips, exact map location, and vetted service providers.

Mirissa Beach

Beach · Southern Province

Mirissa Beach

A crescent of golden sand fringed by coconut palms, Mirissa is the south coast's most beloved beach town. Surf lessons roll in with the morning tide, and blue whales cruise the deep water offshore — Mirissa is one of the world's most reliable spots to see them. Coconut Tree Hill and Parrot Rock frame sunsets that draw crowds every evening.

Full profile & comments →

Things to do here

  1. 1Dawn blue-whale and dolphin watching boat trip
  2. 2Beginner surf lessons on the eastern beach break
  3. 3Snorkel and cliff-jump at Secret Beach
  4. 4Sunset drinks at Coconut Tree Hill or Parrot Rock
  5. 5Stand-up paddleboarding in Weligama Bay
  6. 6Fresh seafood BBQ dinner on the sand

Best time to visit

November to April

Insider tip

Whale watching season runs November through April — depart before dawn.

Exact location

Open in Google Maps →

Service providers near Mirissa Beach

Links open external booking and listing sites. Prices and availability are set by the providers.

Hiriketiya Beach

Beach · Southern Province

Hiriketiya Beach

Hiriketiya is a small, picture-perfect crescent bay framed by palm trees and turquoise water. Once a quiet fishing cove, it has become a favourite surf and yoga retreat while still keeping a laid-back village feel. The left-hand reef break peels gently along the bay, and the beachfront cafés serve smoothie bowls and fresh seafood between sessions.

Full profile & comments →

Things to do here

  1. 1Take a beginner surf lesson in the mellow bay
  2. 2Join a sunrise beach yoga session
  3. 3Swim and snorkel in the calm inner bay
  4. 4Fresh seafood lunch at a beachfront shack
  5. 5Day trip to nearby Dondra Head lighthouse
  6. 6Sunset drinks overlooking the horseshoe bay

Best time to visit

November to April

Insider tip

A horseshoe-shaped bay with gentle left-hand waves — ideal for longboarders and swimmers.

Exact location

Open in Google Maps →

Service providers near Hiriketiya Beach

Links open external booking and listing sites. Prices and availability are set by the providers.

Weligama Bay

Beach · Southern Province

Weligama Bay

Weligama Bay is one of Sri Lanka's most learner-friendly surf beaches, with a long sandy bottom and gentle, rolling waves. The wide bay is dotted with colourful fishing boats, and the town has a relaxed mix of guesthouses, cafés, and local eateries. At the eastern end, Taprobane Island — a tiny rocky islet with a villa — adds a touch of exotic history.

Full profile & comments →

Things to do here

  1. 1Beginner surf lesson in the bay
  2. 2Watch stilt fishermen at dawn or dusk
  3. 3Swim and paddleboard in the calm inner bay
  4. 4Boat trip around Taprobane Island
  5. 5Seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant
  6. 6Day trip to Mirissa or Galle Fort

Best time to visit

November to April

Insider tip

Beginner surfers love the sandy-bottom break — lessons are plentiful and affordable.

Exact location

Open in Google Maps →

Service providers near Weligama Bay

Links open external booking and listing sites. Prices and availability are set by the providers.

Explore other districts

Central Province

Matale

The cultural triangle's rocky heart.

Central Province

Kandy

Sri Lanka's spiritual capital.

Central Province

Nuwara Eliya

Little England in the clouds.

Sabaragamuwa Province

Kegalle

Elephants, rivers, and rainforest edges.

Uva Province

Badulla

Ella's hills, waterfalls, and railway magic.

Southern Province

Galle

Dutch fort walls meet turquoise water.