Coconut Tree Hill Mirissa
A picturesque red-rock promontory adorned with swaying coconut palms, offering breathtaking ocean vistas and iconic sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful, fewer crowds, great sunrise
Coconut Tree Hill Mirissa
Best Time
Peaceful, fewer crowds, great sunrise
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque red-rock promontory adorned with swaying coconut palms, offering breathtaking ocean vistas and iconic sunset views.
"The view of the endless ocean framed by rows of tall swaying coconut trees is absolutely breathtaking."
🌅 Sunrise for Solitude
Visit before 6 AM to enjoy the sunrise in peace, avoiding the midday heat and crowds .
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Arrive by 5:15 PM for the best light to capture stunning photos before the sunset crowds arrive .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Spectacle
The red-rock promontory
Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon, silhouetting the iconic palms.
Sunrise Serenity
The red-rock promontory
Experience the tranquil beauty of dawn with fewer crowds and soft, golden light painting the scene.
Instagrammable Paradise
The entire hill
Capture postcard-perfect shots with swaying coconut trees against the vast ocean backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Perfect Shot
Free Entry, Unforgettable Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunrise for Solitude
Visit before 6 AM to enjoy the sunrise in peace, avoiding the midday heat and crowds.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Arrive by 5:15 PM for the best light to capture stunning photos before the sunset crowds arrive.
🍹 Sunset Bar Views
Enjoy a drink at a nearby bar while watching the sunset for a relaxed experience.
🚶♀️ No Entry Fee!
Enjoy the breathtaking views and photo opportunities completely free of charge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunrise for Solitude
Visit before 6 AM to enjoy the sunrise in peace, avoiding the midday heat and crowds.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Arrive by 5:15 PM for the best light to capture stunning photos before the sunset crowds arrive.
🍹 Sunset Bar Views
Enjoy a drink at a nearby bar while watching the sunset for a relaxed experience.
🚶♀️ No Entry Fee!
Enjoy the breathtaking views and photo opportunities completely free of charge.
🌴 Iconic Photo Spot
This is Sri Lanka's most Instagrammable spot, perfect for capturing tropical vibes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Coconut Tree Hill's breathtaking ocean views and iconic palm trees, calling it a must-visit for its stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset. While the beauty is undeniable, be prepared for significant crowds during peak sunset hours, and consider visiting early morning for a more peaceful experience.
"Coconut Tree Hill in Mirissa is one of the most stunning spots I’ve ever visited! The view of the endless ocean framed by rows of tall swaying coconut trees is absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunrise and sunset. It’s the perfect place to relax, take in the beauty of nature, and capture some incredible photos. The atmosphere is peaceful, with the sound of the waves below adding to the charm. A must-visit landmark in Mirissa that truly captures the tropical paradise vibe of Sri Lanka!"
Kavinda Deshan
"Coconut Tree Hill in Mirissa is another beautiful place in the Matara area. It is especially good for watching the sunrise and sunset. We went there around 12 pm 😁, but I wouldn’t recommend visiting at that time because it’s very hot and difficult to capture good photos under the strong sunlight. Early morning or evening is the best time to enjoy the view."
Pramuditha Bandara
"A visit to Coconut Tree Hill is an absolute must when you're in the area. The best part? There are no tickets or entry fees; it's completely free to visit.
We went specifically to watch the sunset, and it did not disappoint. The scenery was truly beautiful, offering stunning panoramic views. It's an incredible spot for photography—we were able to take so many great photos with the silhouettes of the coconut trees against the colorful sky.
My recommendation is to go around 5:15 pm. This gives you plenty of time to find a good spot, take some cool photos in the golden hour light, and then relax to watch the entire sunset unfold. It's a breathtaking and unforgettable experience that I would highly recommend to everyone."
Amshikaa Vijayakumar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Coconut Tree Hill is easily accessible in Mirissa. If you're coming from Colombo, you can take a bus or a train to Mirissa. From the main Mirissa beach area, it's a short walk or a quick tuk-tuk ride to the base of the hill.
No, Coconut Tree Hill is very close to Mirissa town and the main beach. It's a prominent landmark, so most locals and tuk-tuk drivers will know exactly where to take you.
Many hotels in Mirissa are within walking distance or a short tuk-tuk ride. If your hotel is near the beach, a pleasant walk is often the best way to enjoy the coastal scenery.
While there isn't dedicated parking, you can usually find space for tuk-tuks or scooters along the road leading to the hill. Be mindful of local traffic.
Yes, cycling is a great option if you're staying nearby. The roads are generally flat and scenic, making for a pleasant ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or entry fees required to visit Coconut Tree Hill. It's a public space that you can enjoy for free.
Coconut Tree Hill is accessible at all hours, as it's an outdoor natural landmark. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours, especially sunrise and sunset, is recommended.
For the best photos and a more peaceful atmosphere, aim for sunrise or the hour before sunset. Midday can be very hot and crowded.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting. The main draw is the natural light for views and photography.
There is no specific dress code, but it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain and potentially warm weather.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most magical light for photography. The soft, warm glow creates stunning silhouettes and vibrant skies.
Expect iconic shots of the coconut palms against the ocean, dramatic sunset or sunrise skies, and panoramic views of the coastline. It's a prime spot for 'Instagrammable' content.
Experiment with different angles from the red rocks and the pathways. Getting closer to the trees or framing them with the ocean in the background are popular choices.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions during sunrise and sunset. However, a smartphone camera is often sufficient for great shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and be mindful of other visitors. Respect privacy and avoid flying over private property.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no formal restaurants directly on the hill, there are several beach bars and cafes nearby, like The Sunset Bar, where you can enjoy drinks and snacks while taking in the view.
You'll find a range of options from fresh seafood to local Sri Lankan cuisine at the restaurants and cafes along Mirissa beach. Many offer ocean views.
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and water, especially if you plan to stay for a while. Just remember to clean up after yourself and dispose of any trash responsibly.
Most restaurants in Mirissa offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, often featuring fresh local vegetables and fruits. It's always a good idea to ask about options.
Prices can vary, but generally, you can find affordable meals at local eateries. Beachfront cafes and bars might be slightly more expensive but offer great ambiance.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The main activities are enjoying the stunning ocean views, taking photos, and watching the sunrise or sunset. It's a place for relaxation and soaking in the natural beauty.
No, it's not a hike. It's a small hilltop that's easily accessible with a short walk from the base.
It can get quite crowded, especially during sunset. For a more peaceful experience, visiting at sunrise is highly recommended.
There are no public restrooms directly on the hill. You might find facilities at nearby cafes or bars.
The path to the top is relatively short and not steep, but it is uneven terrain. Visitors with mobility issues might find it challenging, but it's generally manageable for most.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
💑 Couples
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
When shooting, experiment with different perspectives. Try framing the coconut trees with the vast ocean as a backdrop, or capture the unique red rock formations. A wide-angle lens is ideal for encompassing the panoramic views, but even a smartphone camera can capture breathtaking shots. Remember to be patient, especially during sunset, as it can get crowded. Consider visiting early in the morning for a more serene and less crowded photography session.
Beyond the classic shots, look for details: the texture of the palm leaves, the patterns of the waves crashing against the rocks, or the local life around the area. The atmosphere of Coconut Tree Hill is as much a part of the experience as the visuals, so try to capture that too.
The Best Times to Visit for an Unforgettable Experience
Conversely, sunset is a popular spectacle, drawing larger crowds. If you opt for sunset, aim to arrive by 5:15 PM to secure a good vantage point and capture the 'golden hour' glow before the main event. The vibrant colors of the setting sun over the ocean are truly mesmerizing, and many visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere, often accompanied by music from nearby beach bars.
Visiting during midday is generally not recommended. The strong tropical sun can make it very hot and uncomfortable, and the harsh light can be challenging for photography, often leading to washed-out images. Therefore, planning your visit around the cooler, more photogenic hours of dawn or dusk will greatly enhance your experience at this iconic Sri Lankan landmark.
Beyond the View: Local Vibe and Nearby Attractions
Mirissa itself is a vibrant coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and delicious seafood. A short distance from Coconut Tree Hill, you can explore Mirissa Beach, which is popular for swimming and sunbathing. For adventure seekers, Mirissa is also a prime location for whale and dolphin watching tours, which typically depart in the mornings.
If you're looking for more exploration, the historic city of Galle is a popular day trip from Mirissa, offering colonial architecture and boutique shops. The proximity of Coconut Tree Hill to these other attractions makes it an excellent starting point for a day of discovery in the South of Sri Lanka.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit