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Where to stay in Mirissa
Mirissa is a small beach town on Sri Lanka's south coast, between Galle and Matara. Life centres on one curved bay with palm trees, restaurants and the harbour where whale-watching boats leave, so most visitors stay on the beach or on the hillsides just behind it.
Mirissa Beach
Guesthouses and small hotels along the main beach put you close to the evening seafood barbecues, beach bars and Parrot Rock. Coconut Tree Hill is a short walk along the coast. It is lively in high season and quieter at the eastern end.
Hillside above the bay
Villas and boutique guesthouses on the hills behind the bay have terraces overlooking the sea. They are calmer than the beachfront and often have pools, but you will walk up steep lanes or take a tuk-tuk back from the beach.
Near the harbour and Secret Beach
The western side, near the fishing harbour, is handy for early whale-watching departures. A short walk away, Secret Beach is a small, rocky cove good for snorkelling in calm weather. Guesthouses here are simple and peaceful.
One thing to think about
The south coast's main season runs from about November to April; from May to October the sea is rough, swimming can be dangerous and some places close. Rooms on the main coast road can be noisy with buses and traffic.
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Mirissa are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Common questions
When is whale-watching season in Mirissa?
The main season runs from about November to April, when the sea is calm and blue whales are often seen, along with sperm whales and dolphins. Boats leave early in the morning from Mirissa harbour. Choose an operator that follows responsible whale-watching guidelines.
Is Mirissa good for swimming?
In the dry season, from about November to April, the bay is usually calm and good for swimming, with gentle waves for beginner surfers at the eastern end. Outside the season currents can be strong. Swim where locals swim and watch for warning flags.
What is near Mirissa?
The fortified town of Galle is about 45 minutes west, and Weligama's surf beach is next door. You can see the stilt fishermen at Koggala, the turtle hatcheries along the coast and the beaches of Hiriketiya and Tangalle further east.
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