Would you like a beach escapade like no other? Travel to the southern region of the where you will come across the charming coastal town of Beruwala. There is a wide tapestry of attractions from serene gardens and golden beaches. The vibrant culture and historical landmarks will leave you mesmerized as you explore Sri Lanka's coastline on your well planned Sri Lanka holiday.
This seaside town will leave you with unforgettable memories as you can partake in many activities such as diving beneath the Indian Ocean, uncovering ancient relics, going fishing with the local villagers, and exploring the rainforest nearby. Keep reading this in-depth guide to uncover the 20 best attractions in and around Beruwala.
Getting here is a hassle-free journey especially via the highway, but if you want picturesque views of the ocean and have plenty of time to spare taking the Galle-Colombo road is highly recommended.
The Bandaranaike International Airport is around 90 km away from Beruwala and a 1 ½ hour drive via the Expressway. If you are taking the other route it will be at least a 2 to 2.5 hour ride depending on traffic but a worthy journey for the scenic vistas.
One of the most famous railriders is from Colombo to Galle, however, you can take a train from the Fort Railway Station all the way to Beruwala to witness incredible views of the Indian Ocean. The trains run daily and take about 2 hours.
https://seatreservation.railway.gov.lk/mtktwebslr/
Usually running from Colombo's Pettah Bus Stand to Beruwala are public and private buses. The trip takes two hours, and for extra comfort there are air-conditioned express buses available.
For the fastest and most comfortable option, you can hire a taxi or if you are traveling with Arabiers you can book our Airport transfer service for a seamless journey to Beruwala. The Expressway (E01) allows for a quicker journey, reducing the time it takes to travel to around 1.5 hours.
As the former residence of renowned landscape architect Bevis Bawa, this garden and house is a testament to artistic brilliance and horticultural mastery. You can take a stroll across the garden that spans over five acres. Seamlessly blending Italian, English, and Sri Lankan design elements, it creates a tranquil retreat for those who want to feel serenity among the sculptures, pathways, and lush greenery.
96 kilometers away from BIA
An entrance fee is applicable, which includes a guided tour of the garden and main house.
Open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
A stretch of golden sand kissed by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, this is an ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming. Feel your body relax as you walk between the swaying palm trees and calming waves that crash onto the shore. The Beruwala beach is also a great place to sit back and read a book as you enjoy the gentle breeze around you.
95.6 kilometers from Bandaranaike International Airport.
the beach is open to the public so no fees
Accessible 24/7
This historic lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1889. It is situated on Barberyn island which delivers amazing views of the coastline. You can get here by boat and take the time to see this beautiful piece of land. You will feel like you entered a fairytale as you walk around and explore remnants of the colonial era from the lighthouse to abandoned structures.
96 kilometers away
Access to the island may require a small fee for the boat ride.
Boat services typically operate from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
If you are an adventure lover this is the place to go for exciting water activities. Just south of Beruwala, this beach provides both a tranquil ambiance for those wanting a relaxing nook as well as a plethora of water sports for sports enthusiasts. Flanked by the Bentota river, there are so many attractions around such as river cruises and estuary explorations.
100 km away from BIA
No entry fee as the beach is open to the public
Open 24/7
If you are interested in colonial era landmarks, travel to Kalutara to witness this breathtaking Edwardian mansion built in the early 20th century. The Richmond Castle is an architectural marvel where western and Eastern design elements merge to create a masterpiece. The garden is equally impressive so take a guided tour to learn more about this castle's history and significance.
80 kilometers from Bandaranaike International Airport.
You will need to pay an entrance fee which includes a guided tour of the mansion.
Open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Housing one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world, this temple is a must visit spot to add to your bucket list. The Kande Viharaya Temple was built in 1734 and contains many ancient relics and frescoes, as well as a Bo tree believed to be over 300 years old.
The temple is built on top of a hill, which is how it got its name as “Kande” means mountain. It is a sacred site with many worshippers coming to pray on a daily basis.
95 kilometers away from BIA.
There is no entry fee but donations are appreciated.
Open from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Fishermen carry their daily catch to the busy Beruwala Fish Harbour and a great place for those who enjoy fresh seafood. Get a genuine glimpse into the local fishing industry and have a chat with the locals as you look around.
95 kilometers away from the airport.
Free
Best time to visit is early morning (around 5:00 am to 7:00 am) when the fish auction takes place.
As a country with a long and rich history that includes spice trade, the nation is made of numerous ethnicities including Muslims. Take a look inside one of the oldest and most historically significant mosques that sits atop a rocky hill. The Ketchchimalai Mosque is believed to have been constructed in 1024 AD, by Arab traders. It offers gorgeous views of the coastline and Arabic architecture.
95 kilometers from the Bandaranaike International Airport.
Free
Open, but visiting hours may be restricted during prayer times.
Dating back to the 10th century, this Mosque is believed to be the oldest in the country and is a significant historical and religious landmark especially among the Muslim community. The mosque reflects Arab influence on the country as well as Sinhalese and Islamic craftsmanship.
95 km away
Free
Open 24/7 but avoid visiting during prayer times.
As one of the most sacred Buddhist sites on this island, it is a revered pilgrimage site housing a Bodhi tree and a striking white dagoba (stupa) that is said to hold sacred relics. You can find this temple along the banks of the Kalu Ganga.
The complex is unique with hollow stupa, allowing visitors to explore its inner chambers adorned with murals depicting Buddhist teachings. It is an important cultural landmark with a serene atmosphere and is a must-visit for an otherworldly spiritual experience.
80 kilometers from BIA
Free
Open from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Would you like a glimpse into the traditional Sri Lankan livelihoods of people residing in fishing villages? Take this opportunity to explore the fishing villages around Beruwala. As a visitor you can witness the daily routines of local fishermen, including net weaving, boat building, and fish drying.
Varies depending on the village as most are within 90 to 100 km from the airport.
Free
Best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon when fishermen are active.
A conservation center dedicated to protecting sea turtles along Sri Lanka’s southern coast. It plays a key role in safeguarding endangered turtle species, including Olive Ridley, Green, and Hawksbill turtles.
The hatchery collects turtle eggs from beaches, incubates them safely, and releases hatchlings into the ocean to increase their survival chances. You can learn about the conservation efforts, observe baby turtles, and even participate in releasing them into the sea. Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is an educational and heartwarming experience for nature lovers and eco-tourists.
110 km away
A small fee is charged to support conservation efforts.
Open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Situated off the coast of Beruwala, this vibrant underwater ecosystem offers an unforgettable experience for snorkelers and divers. Teeming with colorful marine life, this protected reef is home to corals, tropical fish and many more sea creatures. The clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing visitors to admire the beauty of the coral formations and the diverse species that inhabit them. Male sure to make a pit stop here to get a peek into Sri Lanka’s underwater treasures.
95 kilometers from BIA.
Boat tours to the sanctuary have a fee.
Best visited during daytime as tour operators typically run from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
When it comes to water activities, it's not just Beruwala but even the neighboring beaches offer a plethora of sports. As a paradise for water sports you can tick off so many recreations from your must-do list such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, kayaking, and parasailing. This is a top destination for adventure seekers as they can also partake in windsurfing and wakeboarding for a thrilling and memorable time.
Varies depending on the beach; most water sports centers are within 100 kilometers.
Prices vary depending on the activity you want to do.
Most operators function from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
With clear waters, vibrant corals and rich marine life, beruwala tops the list for mesmerizing diving and snorkeling experiences in Sri Lanka. With so many centers and dive sites available, it does not matter whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver. Give it a try to explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and schools of tropical fish.
95 km from the Bandaranaike International airport.
Fees vary based on dive center and equipment rentals.
Morning hours are best for diving as there is better visibility.
As a coastal town this region is swimming in seafood so food lovers can rejoice as they can munch on a delicious meal by the beach. As a visitor, you must try the Sri Lankan rice and curry and street food delights. As a haven for foodies, try an array of fresh fish cooked in various styles from fine dining to local eateries. Get to know the friendly locals and if you're lucky, gain an authentic local meal and new friends and you check out the cuisines.
Varies depending on the restaurant or street food stall.
Varies depending on the restaurant or street food stall.
Most restaurants operate from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Take river safaris to deep-sea fishing trips, when you spend your vacation in Beruwala. There are so many boat rides to choose from in this area as the waterways offer a range of boat tour experiences, from tranquil river cruises to fishing excursions. Whether it's exploring mangrove forests, spotting exotic birds, or enjoying the ocean breeze, all these tours offer a unique perspective of the coastal and inland landscapes.
Varies depending on the location since most boat tours depart from Beruwala Beach or Bentota River.
Fees vary according to the tour type and duration.
Most tours run from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
A hidden gem for nature enthusiasts, this lush tropical forest is a biodiversity hotspot to a range of flora and fauna. Take a jungle safari to uncover the island’s untouched beauty that includes rare bird species, medicinal plants, and endemic wildlife.
The Yagirala Rainforest is an ideal place for trekking, wildlife photography and nature enthusiasts. Managed by the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, this is a protected rainforest where travellers explore its dense canopy through guided treks, discover waterfalls, medicinal plants, and majestic creatures inhabiting this area.
85 kilometers away from BIA
A small fee may apply for guided tours.
The most ideal time is during daylight hours.
Offering a vast array of precious and semi-precious stones, such as sapphires, rubies, and moonstones, Beruwala is a major center for Sri Lanka's gem trade. Buyers, dealers, and gem collectors congregate in the gem market to examine and buy genuine Sri Lankan gemstones.
95 kilometers away.
however, purchasing gems will depend on individual pricing and negotiations.
Open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Some shops may have different hours.
This is an ancient Buddhist temple in Beruwala, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. It is believed to have been built during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great and is renowned for its sacred relics, including a tooth relic of Arahat Maha Kassapa. The temple features intricate stone carvings, ancient murals, and a dagoba that reflect the country ’s rich Buddhist heritage. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a peaceful retreat for devotees and visitors alike. Galapata Raja Temple is a must-visit for history lovers and those seeking spiritual tranquility.
100 kilometers away from Bandaranaike International Airport.
No entry fees but donations are welcomed.
Open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
