Mirissa travel guide

About Mirissa

Mirissa is a laid-back beach town on Sri Lanka’s south coast, known for golden sand, sunsets and some of the world’s best blue whale watching.

It is the perfect place to finish a tour with a few days of swimming, surfing and seafood dinners on the beach, and it is an easy drive back to the airport on the expressway.

Best time to visit

November to April for calm seas, sunshine and whale watching.

How long to stay

2–3 nights to relax, or longer as the beach finale to your trip.

Getting there

About 3 hours by private car from Colombo airport via the Southern Expressway.

Region

South Coast

Things to do in Mirissa

1. 1

   Whale watching

   Boat trips to see blue whales, sperm whales and dolphins, usually from about November to April. Choose an operator that follows responsible viewing guidelines.

2. 2

   Coconut Tree Hill

   A headland of tall palms above the ocean, one of the most photographed spots in Sri Lanka.

3. 3

   Parrot Rock

   A small rock island off the main beach that you can walk to at low tide for sunset views.

4. 4

   Surfing in Weligama

   A long, gentle bay nearby with beginner-friendly waves and plenty of surf schools.

5. 5

   Secret Beach

   A quiet cove a short tuk-tuk ride from the main beach, good for swimming when the sea is calm.

Local tips for Mirissa

• Whale-watching boats leave early, so plan a quiet afternoon afterwards.
• From May to October the sea can be rough and some beach restaurants close.
• Mirissa pairs well with Galle and Yala on the south coast.

Private transfers to Mirissa

• Colombo Airport to Mirissa: about 190 km, 3 hours
• Yala to Mirissa: about 110 km, 2½ hours