Unawatuna Beach Sri Lanka
Golden sands, calm blue waters, and vibrant sunsets make Unawatuna Beach a Sri Lankan coastal gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful swims & sunrise views
Unawatuna Beach Sri Lanka
Best Time
Peaceful swims & sunrise views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Golden sands, calm blue waters, and vibrant sunsets make Unawatuna Beach a Sri Lankan coastal gem.
"Unawatuna Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, clean golden sand, clear water, and a perfect place to relax or take a swim."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunset views are stunning! Grab a drink at a beach cafe and soak it all in.
🤿 Snorkel & Dive
Explore the underwater world with snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Sands & Calm Waters
Unawatuna Beach
Relax on soft, golden sand and swim in the clear, usually calm blue waters. Perfect for a serene beach day.
Jungle Beach Seclusion
Jungle Beach, Unawatuna
A hidden gem offering a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, surrounded by lush greenery.
Dalawella's Iconic Swing
Dalawella Beach, near Unawatuna
Capture the perfect shot on the famous palm tree rope swing with the ocean as your backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunset views are stunning! Grab a drink at a beach cafe and soak it all in.
🤿 Snorkel & Dive
Explore the underwater world with snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities available.
🌴 Swing into Fun
Don't miss the iconic rope swing at Dalawella Beach for unforgettable photos!
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tricky on weekends; arrive early for a good spot near the beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunset views are stunning! Grab a drink at a beach cafe and soak it all in.
🤿 Snorkel & Dive
Explore the underwater world with snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities available.
🌴 Swing into Fun
Don't miss the iconic rope swing at Dalawella Beach for unforgettable photos!
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tricky on weekends; arrive early for a good spot near the beach.
💰 Negotiate Boat Trips
Boat rides are available; discuss your preferences and agree on prices beforehand.
🧼 Check Facilities
Some cafes offer sunbeds and food, but check for proper washroom and changing facilities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Unawatuna Beach is widely praised for its beautiful golden sand, clear waters, and stunning sunset views, making it a relaxing spot for swimming and unwinding. Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere with numerous cafes and restaurants offering good food and drinks. However, some reviews mention concerns about cleanliness and parking difficulties during peak times.
"Unawatuna Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, clean golden sand, clear water, and a perfect place to relax or take a swim. The sunset views are absolutely stunning, and there are plenty of beach cafés and restaurants around to enjoy good food and drinks with a view.
It’s great for families, couples, and even solo travelers who just want to chill. The water is usually calm and safe for swimming, especially in the morning. Evenings can get a bit crowded, but the atmosphere is lively and fun.
Parking can be a little tricky during weekends, and it’s better to go early if you want a good spot near the beach. Overall, a must-visit beach for anyone traveling to the south coast peaceful, scenic, and full of good vibes! 🌊☀️"
Usama Sherifdeen
"Unawatuna Beach is truly a must-visit destination for both Sri Lankans and foreign travelers alike. The natural beauty of this beach is breathtaking — its distinct curved shoreline and gentle sea waves offer a relaxing, eye-pleasing atmosphere that immediately captures your attention.
We felt we could easily stay here for days without doing anything — it’s that visually pleasing and peaceful. Just being by the shore, listening to the waves, and taking in the view is more than enough to make time feel like it’s standing still. It’s the kind of place that naturally encourages you to slow down and simply enjoy the moment.
For those seeking a bit more activity, boat rides and other water-based experiences are available. These are typically offered by local boat operators, and prices are flexible based on direct negotiation. It’s best to discuss your preferences and agree on the details before heading out.
There’s a good mix of local vendors, eateries, and accommodations nearby, making it easy to plan a comfortable stay. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Unawatuna delivers both in its own charming way.
Overall, this is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka — highly recommended for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to experience nature, comfort, and coastal bliss all in one place."
Chathura Jayasinghe
"Unawatuna Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, famous for its golden sand and calm blue water. It’s perfect for swimming, relaxing, and watching the sunset. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, making it a great place to spend the whole day enjoying the sea and the atmosphere."
Buddika Gunathilaka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take an AC bus from Colombo to Unawatuna for about $3. Alternatively, a tuk-tuk to the bus station then a bus is also an option.
Tuk-tuks are readily available for getting around Unawatuna and to nearby beaches like Jungle Beach.
Jungle Beach is a short tuk-tuk ride from Unawatuna Beach, offering a more secluded experience.
Yes, AC buses run from Colombo directly to Unawatuna, making it an accessible destination.
Dalawella Beach is located near Unawatuna, and while walkable, a short tuk-tuk ride might be more convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Unawatuna Beach is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access it.
Activities like boat rides and snorkeling tours are typically arranged with local operators on-site, and prices are negotiable.
Jungle Beach is also a public access beach, so no entry fees are required.
Beach cafes and restaurants generally operate from morning until late evening, with hours varying.
The popular rope swing at Dalawella Beach usually costs around 500 LKR per person.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim, relax on the golden sand, enjoy water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, and take boat rides.
Yes, the water is usually calm and safe for swimming, especially in the mornings.
It's a lively beach with a vibrant atmosphere, especially in the evenings, offering a mix of relaxation and fun.
Absolutely! The beach, sunsets, and the rope swing at nearby Dalawella Beach are very photogenic. 
Jungle Beach offers a more secluded and tranquil escape compared to the busier Unawatuna Beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are many beach cafes and restaurants offering delicious seafood, local Sri Lankan dishes, and international options.
Grandgers Unawatuna is recommended for its good food and vibe. Many beach bars also offer dining.
Many cafes offer smoothie bowls and other options that can cater to vegetarian and vegan diets.
Levels Unawatuna offers hotel stays with dining options, providing a beach view experience.
While some restaurants can be pricier, local eateries and smaller cafes offer more budget-friendly choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The main beach, especially during sunset, Jungle Beach for its natural beauty, and Dalawella Beach for the rope swing are prime photo locations.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while evenings provide stunning sunset colors.
Be prepared to wait as it's popular. Ensure you have a good angle and capture the motion.
The elevated viewpoints from some cafes or hotels can offer panoramic views of the beach.
Unawatuna is ideal for landscape, sunset, lifestyle, and travel photography, capturing its coastal charm.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When dining, look for cafes that offer a variety of options to suit picky eaters. While not explicitly mentioned for families, the general availability of seafood and international dishes should cater to most preferences.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some beach bars might be pricier, exploring local eateries and smaller cafes can provide delicious and affordable meals.
📸 Instagrammers & Content Creators
+1 Don't miss the iconic rope swing at Dalawella Beach for those viral-worthy photos and reels. Jungle Beach offers a more natural, less crowded backdrop for unique content. Consider staying at places like Levels Unawatuna for scenic hotel views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Unawatuna's Coastal Gems
Just a short distance away, Jungle Beach offers a more secluded and tranquil escape. This hidden cove is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful retreat from the main beach's buzz. It's an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter connection with nature.
Further along the coast, Dalawella Beach is famous for its iconic palm tree rope swing. This picturesque spot has become a must-visit for travelers looking to capture that quintessential Sri Lankan beach photo. The swing, set against the backdrop of bending palm trees and the ocean, offers a unique and memorable experience.
Activities and Water Sports
Boat rides are also readily available, offering a different perspective of the coastline. It's advisable to discuss your preferences and negotiate prices with the local boat operators before setting out to ensure a satisfactory experience.
For those seeking a bit of fun and iconic photo opportunities, the rope swing at Dalawella Beach is a major draw. This activity, while simple, provides a thrilling experience and creates fantastic memories and photos.
Dining and Evening Vibes
Many beach bars and restaurants come alive in the evenings, offering a lively atmosphere with music and drinks. Places like Grandgers Unawatuna are noted for their good food and enjoyable ambiance.
For those looking to celebrate, Unawatuna has been known to host events like New Year's Eve parties, with options ranging from more family-friendly gala dinners to lively beach bar celebrations. [^R]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit