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Unawatuna

Sri Lanka · Coast · LKR · 6.014300, 80.249100
Family friendly 7.5/10 · Rank 383 of 2 709
Best season: December-March

Best for

Unawatuna is a popular resort for those seeking beautiful beaches, snorkelling and proximity to historic Galle. It is recommended for couples, families with children and active travellers. Least suitable for those seeking privacy and quiet — there are many tourists here.

Best season

December-March

Daily budget
$101.00 (≈ 8 476 ₽ · ≈ 31 310 LKR)
For 7 days
$707.00 (≈ 59 331 ₽ · ≈ 219 170 LKR)
Unawatuna is a picturesque resort village on the south coast of Sri Lanka, located near Galle. The city is famous for its crescent-shaped bay with white sand and turquoise water, surrounded by palm trees. It is a popular spot for diving, snorkelling, and a relaxing getaway.
Summer
31.0°C
Winter
23.0°C
Sea
29.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

moderate

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Local people are welcoming and accustomed to a large flow of tourists. Unawatuna is a cosmopolitan resort, with many foreigners. The atmosphere is lively and friendly.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful golden sand beach
  • Coral reef for snorkelling
  • Proximity to Galle
  • Good restaurants
  • Developed infrastructure
  • Opportunity to see stilt fishermen
  • Active nightlife

Cons

  • Many tourists
  • Noisy in high season
  • High prices
  • Beach can be overcrowded
  • Rainy season from May to September
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
31.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
31.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
26.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
29.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
23.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
27.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
29.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-September
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
calm
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
crystal clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Unawatuna Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
Present
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Unawatuna is a safe resort. The beach is protected by a coral reef, making the water calm. The main risks are jellyfish during the rainy season.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins — inhabit coral reefs near Unawatuna, stings are painful but not fatal
  • Special swimming shoes recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • The coral reef is located 100-200 metres offshore. Snorkelling is recommended, but caution is advised.

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found during the monsoon season. Caution is advised.

Sharks — details

  • Blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) — found on Unawatuna reefs, harmless to humans
  • Reef sharks — common inhabitants of Unawatuna waters, usually not dangerous to humans
  • Marine life includes reef sharks, barracuda, rays and moray eels
Attractions

Unawatuna Beach

A famous crescent-shaped beach with golden sand and turquoise water. Protected by a coral reef, ideal for swimming.

Jungle Beach

A hidden beach in the jungle with crystal clear water. A popular spot for snorkelling and privacy.

Galle Fort

A 16th-century historic fortress, a UNESCO site. 15 minutes from Unawatuna.

Stilt Fishermen

Traditional fishermen sitting on poles in the water. An iconic sight of Sri Lanka.

Turtle Farm

A sea turtle conservation centre where you can see turtles and release them into the sea.

Rumassala Temple

A Buddhist temple on a hill with a view of the ocean. A quiet place for meditation.

Best areas

Beach Area

The main resort area with hotels, restaurants and direct beach access.

Galle Area

A historic area with a fortress and colonial architecture. 15 minutes away.

Must-try food

Rice and curry

A traditional Sri Lankan dish — rice with spicy curry of vegetables, fish or meat.

Kottu roti

Chopped roti with vegetables, egg and meat, fried on a griddle. Popular street food.

Hoppers

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk. Served with egg or sweet syrup.

Fish curry

Spicy curry of fresh fish with coconut milk and spices. A signature dish.

Coconut sambal

A spicy condiment made from grated coconut, onion and chilli pepper. Served with rice.

Ceylon tea

The famous Ceylon tea, served with milk or lemon.

Where to go next

Galle

A historic city with a 16th-century fortress, a UNESCO site. 15 minutes away.

Hirikaduwa

A popular surfing beach. 30 minutes away.

Kosgoda Turtle Farm

A sea turtle conservation centre. 40 minutes away.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт имени Бандаранаике (CMB).
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Visa
Visa requirements
ETA required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-March
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$18.00
≈ 1 511 ₽ · ≈ 5 580 LKR
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$77.00
≈ 6 462 ₽ · ≈ 23 870 LKR
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$104.00
≈ 8 728 ₽ · ≈ 32 240 LKR
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$180.00
≈ 15 106 ₽ · ≈ 55 800 LKR
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$140.00
≈ 11 749 ₽ · ≈ 43 400 LKR
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 21 700 LKR
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 1 860 LKR
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 4 650 LKR
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 930 LKR
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 1 085 LKR
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 155 LKR
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 2 170 LKR
Burger
Average price for a burger
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 1 550 LKR
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 1 085 LKR
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 1 550 LKR
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 12 400 LKR
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 310 LKR
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 1 240 LKR
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 10 850 LKR
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 2 480 LKR
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 4 650 LKR
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 13 950 LKR
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 21 700 LKR
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 13 950 LKR
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 3 720 LKR
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 3 100 LKR
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Frequently asked questions
Unawatuna: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-March. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Unawatuna: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +31.0°C, during the day — up to +31.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Unawatuna: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +23.0°C, during the day — up to +29.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Unawatuna: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +29.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Unawatuna: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-September. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Unawatuna: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, crystal clear water. The most popular beaches: Unawatuna Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Unawatuna: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Unawatuna: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: corals, jellyfish. Unawatuna is a safe resort. The beach is protected by a coral reef, making the water calm. The main risks are jellyfish during the rainy season.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Unawatuna: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $101.00 (≈ 8 476 ₽ · ≈ 31 310 LKR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Unawatuna: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $18.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $77.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $104.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $180.00 per night, an apartment — $70.00 per night, a villa — $140.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Unawatuna: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $6.00, dinner at a restaurant — $15.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $3.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Unawatuna: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $40.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.00, a short taxi ride — $4.00, car rental — $35.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Unawatuna: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Unawatuna Beach — A famous crescent-shaped beach with golden sand and turquoise water. Protected by a coral reef, ideal for swimming.; Jungle Beach — A hidden beach in the jungle with crystal clear water. A popular spot for snorkelling and privacy.; Galle Fort — A 16th-century historic fortress, a UNESCO site. 15 minutes from Unawatuna.; Stilt Fishermen — Traditional fishermen sitting on poles in the water. An iconic sight of Sri Lanka.; Turtle Farm — A sea turtle conservation centre where you can see turtles and release them into the sea.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Unawatuna: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Rice and curry — A traditional Sri Lankan dish — rice with spicy curry of vegetables, fish or meat.; Kottu roti — Chopped roti with vegetables, egg and meat, fried on a griddle. Popular street food.; Hoppers — Bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk. Served with egg or sweet syrup.; Fish curry — Spicy curry of fresh fish with coconut milk and spices. A signature dish.; Coconut sambal — A spicy condiment made from grated coconut, onion and chilli pepper. Served with rice.; Ceylon tea — The famous Ceylon tea, served with milk or lemon.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Unawatuna: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Beach Area — The main resort area with hotels, restaurants and direct beach access.; Galle Area — A historic area with a fortress and colonial architecture. 15 minutes away.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Unawatuna: is a visa required?
Visa: ETA required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Unawatuna: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт имени Бандаранаике (code CMB). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $40.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Unawatuna: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — LKR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $101.00 (≈ 8 476 ₽ · ≈ 31 310 LKR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Unawatuna: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Unawatuna: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Unawatuna: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Galle — A historic city with a 16th-century fortress, a UNESCO site. 15 minutes away.; Hirikaduwa — A popular surfing beach. 30 minutes away.; Kosgoda Turtle Farm — A sea turtle conservation centre. 40 minutes away.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.5/10
Overall rank: 383 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 251

Best season

December-March

Useful information

Currency: LKR
Coordinates: 6.014300, 80.249100