It is the jewel of southern Sri Lanka’s coast. From whale watching to surfing, Mirissa offers a lot more than you know. Located between Galle and Tangalle, this laid-back seaside town offers the right balance of excitement and beach solitude. Its beautiful bay makes a stunning crescent beach, and dense coconut palms fringe its edges. Mirissa whale watching is the most anticipated experience as it sits alongside one of the world’s great cetacean migratory routes. It is the best place to see blue whales and sperm whales in Sri Lanka. Spinner dolphins too swim in its waters. Surfing conditions here are ideal, and it attracts pro-surfers and beginners alike. Mirissa nightlife is just as exhilarating!
At a glance
Top Attractions
Hidden Gems
- Dondra Lighthouse is at the southernmost point of Sri Lanka and is near Mirissa.
- Waters near the Mirissa reef are great for snorkelling and for spotting sea turtles.
- Jet skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing are popular water sports to try out here.
- Weligama beach is only 10 minutes away, and it is a fantastic surfing spot.
- Mirissa beach near the lifeguard tower is a turtle hatching ground during some months.
Where to Shop in Mirissa
Shop while sipping aromatic local coffee at Podi Kade, a souvenir shop. Buy Sri Lankan gems at Roosara, swimwear at Lazy Ride, and branded surf equipment at Dylan’s.
Where to Eat in Mirissa
Known for their quality seafood, Mirissa restaurants offer a range of dining options. Zephyr, Margherita Italiano, Little Tuna, Wood Space, Shady Lane, Dewmini Roti Shop, Sunset Bar, are R&R Hotspot top eateries here.
Top Accommodations
Sri Sharavi Beach Villas
On the coveted southern coast of Sri Lanka, set in a serene hideaway on Kamburugamuwa beach in the whale watching hotspot Mirissa is Sri Sharavi Beach...
Imagine Villa
This colonial-style contemporary hotel is an exotic beachfront gem in Mirissa on the south coast of Sri Lanka, where the whales roam in its endless bl...
Casa Mirissa
Casa Mirissa is one of the most stylish boutique hotels in Sri Lanka and is located on the very southern coast, where it is famous for whale watching....
Best Times to Visit
October to April is the best time for surfing, and November to April is whale watching season.