Unawatuna is my top pick in Sri Lanka, and learning to pronounce its name is worth every bit of effort. This charming seaside town is packed with winding alleys, three lovely beaches, and a bunch of cozy restaurants and boutiques—all in walking distance.
It’s hard to explain exactly what made me fall in love with the place. It might be the warm vibes from the locals or maybe it’s just the perfect spot to unwind before heading back home. Either way, it’s a place you definitely don’t want to miss.
Unawatuna is about an hour’s drive from Mirissa and about 15 minutes from Galle.
Things to Do in Unawatuna
Central Beach
Unawatuna’s main beach is all about calm waters and relaxed vibes, perfect for serious sunbathing!
If you’re up for some fun, there are locals offering jet ski rides.
Jungle Beach
A little adventure leads you to Jungle Beach, reachable by a 30-minute walk or a boat ride from the town center. You’ll find a small bay with clear waters and a second, quieter cove if you’re up for a bit of rock-hopping or swimming. It’s best to visit in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
Wijaya Beach
This beach is a bit more touristy but still worth a visit.
Here you’ll find the famous wooden swing that lets you swing out over the sea. It costs 500 rupees for three swings and is right next to Dream Cabanas (just Google it).
Another swing nearby is a cheaper option but expect to share the beach with lots of people. If you want to remove someone from your photos, check out my YouTube guide for tips.
Nearby, there’s a rock and a leaning coconut tree that makes for a magical sunset shot. The swing is across the street from here.
Shopping
Unawatuna is the perfect spot for shopping. You can pick up cute souvenirs, beachwear, and even have clothes tailored.
Tip: Each shop has a seamstress who can fix up your purchases in a couple of hours—super handy if you need a quick adjustment.
Beach Parties
Unawatuna does have some beach parties, though they’re not as wild as in Mirissa.
To find out where the action is, just ask your dinner waiter.
Note that sometimes there’s an entry fee if the party’s in front of a hotel.
Galle
The nearby fortress town of Galle is worth a visit. You can explore it on a day trip from Unawatuna or even spend the night there.
Where to Eat in Unawatuna
The Hideout – Mexican Food with Vegan Options
Hidden away on the second floor, The Hideout offers a cool space with delicious Mexican fare. Try the guacamole, tacos, or burritos (the vegan burrito with jackfruit is amazing!). Their dessert crepes with caramelized bananas are a must-try.
Service can be slow, so don’t come starving.
The Society – Great Service and Varied Menu
A solid spot for dinner, The Society stands out for its excellent service and tasty tacos. The prices are also pretty reasonable.
Aloha (Vegetarian)
A small place with a relaxed vibe, Aloha serves up some great smoothie bowls and fresh juices. It’s also got a few vegetarian dishes and is a nice spot to chill.
Yard (Vegan Options)
For the best avocado toast in Sri Lanka, Yard is your place. They pile on the avocados and also offer some decent vegan bowls, though they weren’t a huge hit with me.
Ni Hao Dumplings
A tiny spot with dumplings and bao buns, Ni Hao is a gem. The tofu bao buns are fantastic, and the dumplings didn’t disappoint. I went back for seconds!
Love Gelato
No trip is complete without dessert, and Love Gelato has you covered with fruity vegan ice creams and sweet treats. Perfect for cooling down after a day in the sun.
Where to Stay in Unawatuna
Accommodation in Unawatuna is a bit pricier compared to Mirissa, but staying central is key. Being close to the beach isn’t crucial since everything is just minutes away.
We stayed at a cozy hotel near Parrot’s Rock, but avoid Happy Banana. We were quoted one price online, but when we arrived, they demanded a much higher rate. They wouldn’t honor the online rate and were pretty misleading. We ended up finding a cheaper guesthouse nearby, which, while not glamorous, was a decent budget option.
