Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna Beach, Unawatuna Overview

Unawatuna is one of the most popular attractions in Sri Lanka, which draws both tourists as well as the locals to its everlasting beauty. This banana shaped beach, with its golden sand, sparkling water, and lush palm trees is the perfect place to relax and spend some quality time with your family. There are sunbeds available for you to sit back relax and enjoy your day with a drink.

The beach brings the local culture to life and is a great place to take a dip into the ocean to relax after a hot summer day. Thus, you will find many Sri Lankan families visiting the beach for a cooling afternoon swim. The beach is also lively with many hip and trendy restaurants, and small kiosks to purchase many different products and tasty food items. You can also visit the famous Japanese Peace Pagoda Statue while taking a stroll on the west side of the beautiful beach. So, head out to the famous Unawatuna beach, soak in the beauty and relax by sipping on your cold and refreshing cocktail.

Things to do at Unawatuna Beach

1. Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda:

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The Japanese Peace Pagoda is one of the three main stupas which built in Sri Lanka, which was created by the Japanese monks. The stupa is a beautiful structure to relax and meditate and get connected to your inner self. Also, visit the stupa for its breathtaking 360-degree view of the jungle and the bay. The stupa is a 2 km walk from the beach, or you can also take a tuk-tuk to reach the place.

2. Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya:

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One of the less visited places in Unawatuna is the Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya Temple. Visit the temple for some quiet time and to admire the beauty of the reclining Buddha. The temple has beautiful murals which adorned the walls. You will also find some monks who have been living there for over 1500 years, which makes the place feel livelier.

3. Swim in the ocean:

The ocean waters are subtle and well suited to take a relaxing swim in the afternoon with your family to cool off after a hot summer day. The best part about the activity is that it makes you feel energized and refreshed, and the best part- it's free! So you don't feel guilty even after you have gone a little overboard with your budget.

4. Surf or Paddle Board in the Sea:

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Get your adrenaline going by going surfing or paddle boarding in the ocean. If you can't surf, there is also the option for paddle boards available, and you may even get a lesson or two to learn the basics. Surfing is also one of the best ways to catch up on your fitness while checking off an item off your bucket list.

Shopping in Unawatuna Beach

Located behind the Unawatuna Beach is a beautiful street market, which is the ultimate paradise for every shopper. You are sure to find different varieties of trinkets, clothes, souvenirs, and jewellery for yourself or your loved ones which help you take back something to remember the trip by or also use the items during your stay.

Some of the famous shops to visit are 'Made in Ceylon' which is a renowned gift shop, New World Craft for jewellery, Sea Horse Divers, which is known for its paddle boards.

Nightlife at Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna beach offers one of the best party scenes with laid back vibes. If you are someone who enjoys relaxing on the beach with a cocktail, Unawatuna is the place for you. Some of the most famous places with beach parties in Unawatuna are Happy Banana, Thaproban Beach House, and Sea View.

Local Food and Restaurants

Sri Lankan cuisine has evolved into its authentic food with the influence from countries like Netherlands, Portugal, and England, also quite similar to South Indian foods but with its charm and uniqueness. The individual items include rice, fish and local curries along with some delicious flatbread.

1. Mati Gedara: Budget-friendly place for a buffet (veg and non-veg)
2. mmmh Surcé & Salé: Modern and hip café, recommended for breakfast and lunch. Do try their Nutella crepes and coffee.
3. Catamaran: Beautifully presented dishes, famous for its crunchy vegetables and fries. Yum!
4. Jina's Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurant: Every vegetarian's dream come true set in a beautiful garden, famous for its Indian food, Mexican and western dishes.
5. Roti Shop: A simple street shop offering tasty Rotis and delicious bread.