Koggala Beach
A serene, wide beach known for its powerful surf, traditional stilt fishermen, and a vital sea turtle conservation project.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas & fewer crowds
Koggala Beach
Best Time
Calm seas & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, wide beach known for its powerful surf, traditional stilt fishermen, and a vital sea turtle conservation project.
"An amazing long wide white beach with few restaurants, bars and small hotels, way less developed but even more beautiful.
"🌊 Respect the Waves
Koggala's waves can be strong; swim with caution or opt for calmer spots.
🐢 Turtle Hatchery Visit
Support conservation! See baby turtles make their way to the sea.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Traditional Stilt Fishermen
Along the beach
Witness the iconic sight of fishermen perched on stilts, a unique cultural practice and a photographer's dream.
Sea Turtle Hatchery
Koggala Beach
Support conservation efforts by visiting the hatchery and learning about sea turtle protection. A touching experience for all ages.
Vast, Uncrowded Sands
Koggala Beach
Enjoy the tranquility of a long, wide, and often empty beach, perfect for relaxation and soaking in the coastal beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waves (or Watch Them)
Turtle Conservation Spotting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Respect the Waves
Koggala's waves can be strong; swim with caution or opt for calmer spots.
🐢 Turtle Hatchery Visit
Support conservation! See baby turtles make their way to the sea.
📸 Capture the Fishermen
The stilt fishermen are a unique photo opportunity.
🧘♀️ Relax on Empty Sands
Enjoy the peaceful, less developed vibe of this long beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Respect the Waves
Koggala's waves can be strong; swim with caution or opt for calmer spots.
🐢 Turtle Hatchery Visit
Support conservation! See baby turtles make their way to the sea.
📸 Capture the Fishermen
The stilt fishermen are a unique photo opportunity.
🧘♀️ Relax on Empty Sands
Enjoy the peaceful, less developed vibe of this long beach.
🚗 Explore Nearby Gems
Koggala is a great base for visiting Unawatuna and Mirissa.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Koggala Beach is praised for its vast, uncrowded sands and the unique sight of traditional stilt fishermen. While many enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and surf potential, some visitors note that the strong waves and currents make it less suitable for swimming, especially for families.
"Nice and really empty beach. Few restaurants, where you can for example rent sunbeds.
Beach not for swimming, waves were one of the biggest we saw in the area and were warned by restaurant owner, that there are strong currents. Still tryed to do some swimming, but the waves kept pushing us down and everything was full of sand."
Anne Sivonen
"The beach is so beautiful. There are shallow areas with less strong sea waves so can have a bath even. There are so many beautiful scenes you can enjoy. Lovely place"
Paramee M Rathnaike
"An amazing long wide white beach with few restaurants, bars and small hotels with some sunbeds options.
Way less developed than the surrounding places but, in my opinion, even more beautiful. Perfect place to relax and unwind 🌞🌴"
Elena Bartolini
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus from Colombo to Koggala, which is a common and affordable option. Alternatively, a taxi or private car offers more comfort and directness. The journey typically takes around 3-4 hours depending on traffic.
Yes, Koggala Beach is well-connected by local buses running along the southern coast. These buses are frequent and a great way to experience local travel.
Tuk-tuks are readily available for short distances between Koggala and nearby towns. For longer trips, local buses or taxis are also convenient options.
Most buses heading south along the coast will pass through Koggala. Look for buses going towards Matara or Tangalle, and inform the driver you wish to alight at Koggala Beach.
Koggala Beach is a well-known landmark. Once you reach Koggala town, signs will direct you to the beach, or you can ask locals for assistance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Koggala Beach itself is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sands and ocean views freely.
Yes, there is usually a small entrance fee for the Sea Turtle Farm & Hatchery to support their conservation work. It's a worthwhile contribution.
The Sea Turtle Farm & Hatchery typically operates during daylight hours. It's best to check their specific opening times upon arrival or online if available.
Some restaurants and hotels along the beach offer sunbeds, often with a small rental fee or a minimum spend on food and drinks.
Yes, there are several hotels and guesthouses located directly on or very near Koggala Beach, offering convenient access to the shore.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic stilt fishermen are a must-capture subject. Also, the long, wide expanse of the beach, especially during sunrise and sunset, offers stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone photography can yield spectacular aerial shots of the vast beach and coastline. However, always be mindful of local regulations and privacy concerns.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues. Sunsets are particularly dramatic.
Generally, photography is allowed at the Sea Turtle Farm & Hatchery, but it's always polite to ask staff if you're unsure, especially when photographing specific exhibits or staff.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing the stilt fishermen from a distance. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant ocean shots.
🎫 🏊♀️ Swimming & Water Activities
Koggala Beach is known for its strong waves and currents, making it less suitable for casual swimming, especially for families with young children.
Koggala Beach is a popular surf spot, particularly for those who enjoy bigger waves. Lessons are often available from local surf schools.
While Koggala itself can be rough, nearby beaches like Habaraduwa or parts of Unawatuna might offer calmer waters for swimming.
Besides surfing, you might find opportunities for bodyboarding or simply enjoying the powerful waves from the shore.
Yes, several surf schools and shops along Koggala Beach offer surfboard rentals and lessons for all skill levels.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a few beachside restaurants and cafes offering local Sri Lankan cuisine and some international options. They often provide sunbeds for patrons.
Given its coastal location, fresh seafood is often available. Enjoy grilled fish or other local specialties prepared by the beachside eateries.
Most Sri Lankan restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like rice and curry, vegetable rotis, and dhal. Vegan options can usually be requested.
Prices are generally reasonable, especially at local eateries. Expect to pay more at hotels or more upscale restaurants.
Some guesthouses and small cafes offer breakfast. For more variety, you might need to travel to nearby towns like Unawatuna or Weligama.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏄♀️ Surfers and Wave Lovers
Don't Miss: Catching a wave during the prime afternoon swell.
🧘♂️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing and Coastal Adventures
Key Takeaway: Koggala is a surfer's paradise, but be mindful of the strong currents if you're not an experienced swimmer.
Conservation at the Sea Turtle Hatchery
Why Visit: It's an educational and emotionally rewarding experience that contributes to a vital cause.
The Charm of Uncrowded Beaches
Insider Tip: Embrace the quiet! Koggala is perfect for unwinding and enjoying the simple beauty of the Sri Lankan coast.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit