Mirissa

Mirissa (මිරිස්ස) is a small coastal town on Sri Lanka's south coast with a crescent shaped bay of golden sand, palm trees and a relaxed tropical atmosphere. It is the island's best known base for whale watching.

From the harbour, boats head out to deep water where blue whales, sperm whales, spinner dolphins and other marine life are often seen, as busy shipping lanes and an underwater canyon lie close to the coast. Sightings can never be guaranteed, and responsible operators keep a respectful distance from the animals. On land, Coconut Tree Hill, a red earth headland of slender palms, and Parrot Rock at the end of the beach are favourite viewpoints at sunset. Show more

The bay is good for swimming in calm conditions, and small surf breaks, snorkelling spots with sea turtles and the quieter Secret Beach lie nearby. Beach restaurants serve fresh seafood in the evening, and Weligama's surf beach and the town of Matara with its old fort are short rides away.

Mirissa is on the coastal railway between Galle and Matara. Two or three days suit beach life and a whale watching trip. The whale season off the south coast runs from November to April, which is also the dry and calm season, while seas are rough during the southwest monsoon.