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Unawatuna, Sri Lanka
Looking for a tropical getaway? Unawatuna, Sri Lanka, is the real deal. This beach town is a stunner, with some of the country's most beautiful coastlines. Whether you're a beach bum, an adventure-seeker, or just looking for a chill vibe, Unawatuna's got you covered. Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters, explore ancient ruins, or simply soak up the sun – the choice is yours.
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My Slice of Paradise in Unawatuna, Sri Lanka
summarizeEditor's Summary
I was torn between a few destinations in Sri Lanka, but the weather ultimately decided for me. I visited in early November, and while the occasional showers weren't a complete rarity, they were mostly at night. The heat and sunshine during my visit were a given, but the humidity was a constant companion. Unawatuna's got a reputation for being one of Sri Lanka's top destinations, and it's easy to see why. The beaches are stunning, the atmosphere is laid-back, and there's no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. From snorkeling to surfing, and with fresh seafood and local markets to explore, Unawatuna's got something for everyone.
settingsSpecifications
Turlar8/10
Plajlar9/10
VerdictMükemmel
HavaDurumu6/10
Karasaltlar7/10
SuSicakligi8/10
BulunduguYer9/10
KafelerVeRestoranlar9/10
I was stuck between a few destinations in Sri Lanka, but the weather ultimately decided for me. I visited in early November, hoping the rain would have subsided by then. While the occasional showers weren't a complete rarity, they were mostly at night, and by morning, the area would be spotless. The heat and sunshine during my visit were a given, but the humidity was a constant companion.
Unawatuna's got a reputation for being one of Sri Lanka's top destinations, and it's easy to see why. The beaches are stunning, the atmosphere is laid-back, and there's no shortage of activities to keep you entertained.
It's worth noting that since Sri Lanka's an island, you'll be swimming in the Indian Ocean, not a sea. The water's always warm, but the ocean can get pretty rough. The beach in Unawatuna often has rocky terrain, so it's a good idea to choose an accommodation that's close to a sandy beach.
Unawatuna's got plenty of hotels right on the beach, but be aware that the town center's got a large sandy beach that's often affected by strong waves. I stayed at the Shanti Beach Resort, which is within a 20-25 minute walking distance from the town center.
What drew me to this resort was its location near a small cove where the ocean is always calm and peaceful. The massive waves would stop short of the shore due to the rocks, making it an ideal spot for swimming.
The area's also home to a ton of cafes and restaurants serving up authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. We were particularly fond of the seafood dishes – fresh catches of the day, succulent prawns, and local roti with a variety of fillings.
One of the standout features of this beach is that massive turtles would swim up to the shore, making the experience even more thrilling. The yellow sand, crystal-clear water, and abundance of palm trees creating a cozy shade – it was absolute perfection. I spent 10 incredible days here and it was truly unforgettable! We'd spend our days lounging on the beach and taking leisurely strolls along the shoreline, and in the evenings, we'd watch the sunset right from the beach.
The area's also teeming with cafes and restaurants serving up authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. We were particularly fond of the seafood dishes – fresh catches of the day, succulent prawns, and local roti with a variety of fillings.
And let's not forget the incredible variety of fresh fruits – you can indulge in them all day long!
We also went on a few excursions, and I have to say, finding them wasn't hard at all. As we strolled down the main street of Unawatuna, we were bombarded with plenty of options.
We took a two-day excursion to Sigiriya, which was packed with a ton of interesting locations. I even managed to squeeze in a safari trip to Yala National Park, where I spotted plenty of animals in their natural habitat.
This place is truly a nature lover's paradise!
For shorter trips, public transportation is readily available. Our closest city, Galle, is just 7km away, and we took a quirky bus to get there.
One of the best things about Sri Lanka is that you can exchange currency pretty easily - I swapped dollars and euros for rupees at the airport, a bank, or even a jewelry shop. We even exchanged some rubles for rupees at a local store and they were super helpful. The prices for food and souvenirs are really reasonable too.We had an amazing time in Unawatuna, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing beach vacation.
live_helpFeatured FAQ
What's 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 sunny and dry. However, the shoulder season, from May to June and September to November, can also be a great time to visit, with fewer crowds and lower prices.
What are the must-try activities in Unawatuna?
Some of the must-try activities in Unawatuna include snorkeling, surfing, and whale watching. You can also take a boat tour to the nearby islands or explore the local markets and shops.
What's the local cuisine like in Unawatuna?
The local cuisine in Unawatuna is a fusion of Indian, Chinese, and Sri Lankan flavors. You can try popular dishes like hoppers, string hoppers, and pittu, or indulge in fresh seafood and coconut-based desserts.
Are there any safety concerns in Unawatuna?
As with any tourist destination, there are some safety concerns in Unawatuna. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables. Also, be respectful of the local wildlife and keep a safe distance.
Can I get around Unawatuna without a car?
Yes, you can get around Unawatuna without a car. There are plenty of tuk-tuks and taxis available, or you can walk or bike along the scenic coastal road.
What's the best way to stay connected in Unawatuna?
The best way to stay connected in Unawatuna is to purchase a local SIM card or rent a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. You can also use public Wi-Fi at cafes and restaurants, but be mindful of your data usage and security.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka?
Yes, you can get a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka. However, it's essential to check the latest visa requirements and regulations before your trip.
What's the local culture like in Unawatuna?
The local culture in Unawatuna is a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. You can experience the local culture by attending a traditional dance performance, visiting a local temple, or participating in a cultural festival.
check_circlePros
- •The beaches are truly stunning, with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
- •The laid-back atmosphere makes it easy to unwind and relax.
- •There's no shortage of activities to keep you entertained, from snorkeling to surfing.
- •The seafood is fresh and delicious, and the local cuisine is a must-try.
- •The people are friendly and welcoming, making it easy to meet new friends.
- •The scenery is breathtaking, with lush green forests and rolling hills.
cancelCons
- •The humidity can be a challenge, especially during the peak sun hours.
- •The occasional showers can be a bit of a downer, but they're mostly at night.
- •The ocean can get pretty rough, so it's essential to be mindful of your surroundings.
- •Some areas can get a bit crowded, especially during peak season.
- •The local wildlife can be a bit aggressive, so it's crucial to keep a safe distance.
- •The weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to pack accordingly.
