Southern Province
Koggala, about 20–30 minutes east of Galle, is known for Sri Lanka's iconic stilt fishermen, who perch on wooden poles in the shallows. You can also take a boat trip on Koggala Lake and relax on the long beach. Nearby Ahangama has surf and cafés. Some stilt fishermen now pose for photos in return for a tip, so agree on it before photographing.
Check current details before travelling: prices, opening hours, access and seasonal conditions change.
Along the south coast around Koggala and Ahangama, between Galle and Weligama.
Some ask for a tip to pose. Agree on it before taking photos.
In season (roughly November to April), in calm conditions. Check locally.
About 20–30 minutes by car.
Galle Fort is a living walled town on a headland of the south coast. First fortified by the Portuguese and greatly expanded by the Dutch, its ramparts now enclose churches, mansions, galleries and cafés, and it remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Unawatuna is a sheltered bay just east of Galle, lined with palms, beach restaurants and guesthouses. Its position makes it a convenient beach base for exploring Galle Fort and the south coast.
Weligama is a broad bay on the south coast whose gentle, rolling waves make it one of the most popular places in Sri Lanka to learn to surf.
Mirissa is a crescent of sand on the far south coast with a laid-back strip of cafés, guesthouses and seafood restaurants. It is best known as the main departure point for whale-watching boats in season.
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