Mirissa Beach
One of the most attractive beaches on Sri Lanka’s south coast.
Mirissa was historically one of the major fishing ports and is today well-known for its tourism industry. Independent travelers flock to the area, while major hotels remain scarce.
Mirissa, being a party beach, may be fairly boisterous all night long, especially on weekends.
Mirissa has evolved into Sri Lanka’s premier whale-watching location, and it is likely the only area where you may see both blue whales and sperm whales, as well as dolphins, on the same cruise. Because of the abundance of krill all year, the blue whale population, which is not migratory, is quite large. Whale watching season lasts from November to March.
It is not a destination for skilled surfers, but it is one of the greatest places for beginners. Snorkeling and other watersports are also available.
Additional information
Nearby Attractions
The most popular nearby attraction
- Secret Beach
- Weligama Beach
- Snake Farm
- Polhena Beach
- Parrot Rock
- Unawatuna Beach
- Galle Dutch Fort
- Stilt Fishermen
It is a small hidden beach with a bay area just around the corner of the Mirissa main beach.
Distamce:2 Km
Weligama Bay is a popular destination for both novice and experienced surfers. There are several surf schools along the beach where you may also rent surfboards.
Distamce: 5 Km
Thelijjavila Farm is home to a variety of snakes, including kraits, pythons, cobras, vipers, blind snakes, vine snakes, keel-backs, racers, cat snakes, and more.
Distance: 14 Km
The beach is excellent for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. But it is not a popular vacation location due to a lack of lodging.
Distance: 9 Km
Parrot Beach is a little rocky island near Mirissa Beach, positioned across the calm blue seas.
Distance: 900m
The beach is surrounded by a double reef, which reduces the impact of the waves of the Indian Ocean, making it excellent for safe swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Distance: 29 Km
The Galle Dutch Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was originally erected in the 16th century by the Portuguese.
Distance: 40 Km
An age-old fishing technique unique to Sri Lanka. It came into being just after World War II.
Distance: 18 Km
Accommodation
Accommodation (within 10km)
- Star Classified hotels- Yes
- International Chain Hotels- YEs
- Boutique Hotels- Yes
- Resorts- No
- Ayurvedic Hotels- No
- Inns/Guest Houses- Yes
- Hostels- Yes
- Homestays- Yes
- Eco Hotels- Yes
* You might still find preferred accommodation in nearby cities.
Distance
Distance from (estimate)
- CMB Airport- 176km (travel time: 2hrs 40min)
- Colombo City- 150km (travel time: 2hrs 40min)
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress- 299km (travel time: 5hrs 10min)
- Anuradhapura Ancient City- 336km (travel time: 5hrs 45min)
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City- 347km (travel time: 6hrs)
- Kandy City- 247km (travel time: 4hrs 30min)
- Galle Dutch Fort- 34km (travel time: 1hrs)
* The time and distance are only given to give you an idea. There are stopovers between the two locations. The cities listed above are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.
Best Time
Season
- November to April