Unawatuna: A Hidden Gem on Sri Lanka's South Coast

Unawatuna: A Beach Town That's Worth the Splurge

summarizeEditor's Summary

Sri Lanka's become a hotspot for Russian tourists, and for good reason. I spent 10 days in Unawatuna, and while it's not without its downsides, the stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and picturesque scenery make it a must-visit destination. The town's off-the-beaten-path charm and relatively uncrowded beaches make it a great alternative to more popular areas like Hikkaduwa. With its rich history, delicious seafood, and laid-back atmosphere, Unawatuna is a true gem on Sri Lanka's south coast. The town's got a lot going for it, from its crystal-clear waters to its lush green hills and palm trees lining the shore.

settingsSpecifications

Fiyat6/10

Kararİyi

Güzellik9/10

HizmetKalitesi8/10

Over the past three years, Sri Lanka's become a hotspot for Russian tourists, and it's easy to see why.

I'll let you in on a secret: there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore, including some UNESCO World Heritage sites.

We chose Unawatuna over Hikkaduwa, which is a more popular area, but we couldn't find any decent accommodations there during peak season.

We spent 10 days at Unawatuna, and here's the lowdown: the place is stunning, but there are some downsides.

The Beach and Ocean

The main draw of Unawatuna is its bay, which makes the ocean much calmer than other beaches on the island. It's a great spot for families, but don't expect a relaxing dip – the waves can be pretty rough, even in season.

The beach is well-maintained, with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby where you can grab a drink and lounge on the beach all day.

I highly recommend checking out Jungle Beach, a secluded spot nearby that's home to sea turtles. It's a real treat to see these incredible creatures up close.

Prices and Service

Now, here's where things get a bit tricky. Prices at Unawatuna are steep, and it's not entirely clear why. Maybe it's because most tourists are European, and the prices are geared towards them? Or maybe the resort just decided to capitalize on its popularity?

Either way, Unawatuna is significantly pricier than Hikkaduwa, from accommodations to food to even fruit smoothies.

The staff at the hotels and restaurants speak excellent English, and menus are often translated, so you won't have to worry about ordering something unexpected.

Is it Worth It?

We only spent 10 days in Sri Lanka, and we barely scratched the surface of what the island has to offer. Next time, we'll probably head to Hikkaduwa to compare the atmosphere, but for now, I'm glad we chose Unawatuna.

It's a great spot if you're looking for a beautiful beach, a developed tourist infrastructure, and a relaxing atmosphere. However, if you're looking for a bit more authenticity and lower prices, you might want to consider alternative options.

Unawatuna's a party destination, especially during peak season, so if you're looking for a more laid-back vibe, you might want to look elsewhere.

The crowds can be a bit overwhelming, especially during peak season, so if you're looking for a more secluded spot, you might want to consider a different area.

I'd recommend Unawatuna to anyone looking for a beautiful beach and a developed tourist infrastructure. Just be prepared for the price tag.

It's a great spot for families, with plenty of activities and amenities available. However, if you're looking for a more romantic getaway, you might want to consider a different area.

The weather can get pretty hot during the day, especially during peak season, so be sure to pack accordingly and stay hydrated.

Despite the downsides, I'd highly recommend Unawatuna to anyone looking for a beautiful beach and a developed tourist infrastructure. It's a great spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

I'd give Unawatuna 4 out of 5 stars. It's a great spot, but it's not perfect. Be sure to do your research and plan accordingly to get the most out of your trip.

The pros: beautiful beach, developed tourist infrastructure, relaxing atmosphere, great spot for families.

The cons: steep prices, crowds, party atmosphere.

live_helpFeatured FAQ

What is Unawatuna like during peak season?

Unawatuna can get pretty crowded during peak season, with lots of Russian tourists flocking to the town. The beaches can be tough to find a spot on, and the accommodation options can be pricey. But it's still worth visiting, with plenty of events and festivals taking place.

What are the accommodation options like in Unawatuna?

The accommodation options in Unawatuna are a bit limited, but there are some great options available, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Just be prepared for higher prices during peak season.

What is the best way to get around Unawatuna?

The best way to get around Unawatuna is with a 4x4 vehicle, as the roads can be rough and difficult to navigate. But there are also plenty of local tuk-tuks available, which can be a fun and affordable way to get around.

What are the top attractions in Unawatuna?

The top attractions in Unawatuna include the stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and picturesque scenery. You'll also find plenty of local restaurants serving up fresh seafood and shops selling local handicrafts.

What is the best time to visit Unawatuna?

The best time to visit Unawatuna is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is cool and dry. Just be aware that the town can get crowded during peak season.

What are the local customs and traditions like in Unawatuna?

The local customs and traditions in Unawatuna are a mix of Sri Lankan and Russian influences. The town has a strong Buddhist influence, and many locals follow traditional customs and practices.

What are the local languages spoken in Unawatuna?

The local languages spoken in Unawatuna include Sinhala, Tamil, and English. Many locals also speak Russian, due to the town's strong Russian influence.

What are the local currency and payment methods like in Unawatuna?

The local currency in Unawatuna is the Sri Lankan rupee. Many local businesses accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.

check_circlePros

•The beaches in Unawatuna are stunning, with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
•The town is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including sea turtles that can often be spotted on the beach.
•The scenery is picture-perfect, with lush green hills and palm trees lining the shore.
•The seafood is fresh and delicious, with a wide range of options available at local restaurants.
•The town has a rich history, with many ancient ruins and artifacts to explore.
•The laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
•The town's got a great selection of local restaurants serving up fresh seafood.
•The scenery is so pretty, it's like something out of a postcard.

cancelCons

•The town can get quite crowded during peak season, making it difficult to find a spot on the beach.
•The accommodation options are limited, and can be quite pricey during peak season.
•The town's infrastructure is still developing, which can make it difficult to find basic amenities like ATMs and internet cafes.
•The roads can be rough, making it difficult to get around without a 4x4 vehicle.
•The town has a strong Russian influence, which can make it feel a bit like you're in a Russian resort town.
•The weather can be quite hot and humid, making it difficult to explore the town during the day.
•The town's not as well-developed as some other areas in Sri Lanka.
•The crowds can be a bit overwhelming during peak season.