Mirissa is a beautiful coastal town in the south of Sri Lanka, famous for its stunning beaches, surfing waves, whale watching, and nightlife. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous trip, or a cultural experience, Mirissa has something for everyone.
In this guide, we will show you the best things to do, where to stay, how to get there, and when to visit Mirissa in 2023.
15 Amazing Things to Do in Mirissa
Mirissa offers a variety of activities for all kinds of travelers, from nature lovers to party animals. Here are some of the best things to do in Mirissa that you should not miss:
Secret Beach
Secret Beach is a hidden gem in Mirissa, where you can enjoy a secluded and peaceful beach with crystal clear water, soft sand, and palm trees. You can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or relax in one of the hammocks or swings. To get to Secret Beach, you need to follow a dirt road from the main road, and then walk down a steep path for about 10 minutes.
Party on the Beach
If you are looking for some fun and excitement, Mirissa is the place to be. Mirissa Beach is the main spot for nightlife, where you can find many bars, restaurants, and clubs that play music and serve drinks until late. You can dance, mingle, and enjoy the fire shows and fireworks on the beach. Some of the popular places to party on the beach are Doctor’s House, Zephyr, and Papa Mango.
Coconut Tree Hill
Coconut Tree Hill is one of the most iconic and Instagram-worthy places in Mirissa. It is a small hill covered with coconut trees, overlooking the ocean and the beach. You can climb up the hill and enjoy the panoramic views of the sunset, the sunrise, or the stars. You can also take some amazing photos with the coconut trees and the blue sky as your backdrop.
Sunset Cruise
Another great way to enjoy the beauty of Mirissa is to take a sunset cruise on a catamaran or a sailboat. You can sail along the coast and watch the sun dip into the horizon, creating a spectacular display of colors. You can also spot dolphins, turtles, and whales along the way. You can book a sunset cruise with a local operator or a hotel, and enjoy some snacks and drinks on board.
Whale Watching
Mirissa is one of the best places in the world to see whales, especially blue whales, the largest animals on earth. You can join a whale watching tour and hop on a boat that will take you to the deep sea, where you can witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. You can also see other marine life, such as dolphins, orcas, sperm whales, and flying fish. The best time to go whale watching in Mirissa is from November to April, when the sea is calm and the whales are more active.
Galle Fort
Galle Fort is a historical and cultural attraction that is worth a visit from Mirissa. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and later fortified by the Dutch and the British. You can explore the fort and see its colonial architecture, museums, churches, mosques, lighthouses, and shops. You can also walk along the ramparts and enjoy the views of the ocean and the city.
Surfing
Mirissa is a paradise for surfers, as it has some of the best waves in Sri Lanka. You can find several surf spots along the coast, suitable for different levels of surfers. Some of the popular surf spots are Mirissa Point, Weligama Bay, and Midigama. You can rent a surfboard or take a surf lesson from one of the many surf schools or shops in Mirissa.
Snorkeling
Mirissa is also a great place to snorkel, as it has a rich and diverse marine life. You can snorkel at Secret Beach, Parrot Rock, or Turtle Bay, and see colorful corals, fish, turtles, and rays. You can also snorkel at Snake Island, a small island off the coast of Mirissa, where you can see sea snakes, eels, and octopuses. You can rent snorkeling gear or join a snorkeling tour from Mirissa.
Turtle Hatchery
If you love turtles, you should visit the Turtle Hatchery in Mirissa, where you can learn about the conservation efforts and the life cycle of these endangered animals. You can see different species of turtles, such as green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and leatherback turtles, and watch them hatch and release into the sea. You can also volunteer or donate to the hatchery and help them protect the turtles.
Parrot Rock
Parrot Rock is a small rock island that is located near the main beach of Mirissa. You can walk to the island during low tide, and climb up the rock for a stunning view of the beach and the ocean. You can also see some parrots and other birds on the island, and snorkel around the rock to see some fish and corals.
Stilt Fishing
Stilt fishing is a traditional and unique fishing method that is practiced in some parts of Sri Lanka, including Mirissa. It involves fishermen sitting on wooden poles that are planted in the shallow water, and using rods and lines to catch fish. You can see the stilt fishermen in action along the coast of Mirissa, especially in the early morning or evening. You can also try stilt fishing yourself and experience the local culture.
Elephant Transit Home
If you want to see some elephants, you can visit the Elephant Transit Home, which is about an hour drive from Mirissa. It is a rehabilitation center that rescues and cares for orphaned and injured elephants, and prepares them for release into the wild. You can watch the elephants being fed, bathed, and treated, and learn about their stories and personalities. You can also support the center by adopting an elephant or making a donation.
Snake Island
Snake Island is another small island that is located near Mirissa. It is named after the venomous sea snakes that inhabit the island, and can be seen swimming in the water or resting on the rocks. You can visit the island by boat, and snorkel around it to see the snakes and other marine life. You can also see some birds and lizards on the island, and enjoy the views of the ocean and the mainland.
Taprobane Island
Taprobane Island is a private and luxurious island that is situated off the coast of Weligama, a nearby town of Mirissa. It is a tropical paradise that has a villa, a pool, a garden, and a staff. You can rent the island for a day or a night, and enjoy the exclusivity and tranquility of the island. You can also swim, snorkel, kayak, or fish around the island, and see some dolphins and whales.
Mirissa Lighthouse
Mirissa Lighthouse is a historical and scenic attraction that is located on a hill near the harbor of Mirissa. It is a white tower that was built by the British in the 19th century, and still functions as a navigational aid for the ships. You can climb up the lighthouse and enjoy the views of the harbor, the ocean, and the town. You can also see some monkeys and peacocks around the lighthouse, and visit the nearby Buddhist temple.
How to Visit Mirissa
Mirissa is easy to reach from any part of Sri Lanka, as it is well connected by road, rail, and air. Here are some of the ways to get to Mirissa:
By Bus
You can take a bus from Colombo, Galle, Matara, or any other major city to Mirissa. The bus journey takes about 3 to 4 hours from Colombo, and costs around 200 to 300 rupees. The bus station is located on the main road, near the beach.
By Train
You can take a train from Colombo, Galle, Matara, or any other major city to Weligama, which is the closest train station to Mirissa. The train journey takes about 2 to 3 hours from Colombo, and costs around 100 to 200 rupees. The train station is located about 6 km from Mirissa, and you can take a tuk-tuk, a taxi, or a bus to Mirissa from there.
By Air
You can take a domestic flight from Colombo, Kandy, or any other major city to Koggala, which is the closest airport to Mirissa. The flight journey takes about 30 to 40 minutes from Colombo, and costs around 10,000 to 15,000 rupees. The airport is located about 20 km from Mirissa, and you can take a tuk-tuk, a taxi, or a bus to Mirissa from there.
Where to Stay in Mirissa
Mirissa has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. You can find something that suits your taste and budget, and enjoy the comfort and convenience of staying in Mirissa. Here are some of the best places to stay in Mirissa:
Cape Weligama: A stunning and exclusive resort that is located on a cliff, offering breathtaking views and privacy. It has spacious and elegant rooms and villas with pools, a spa, a gym, and a restaurant. It also offers free Wi-Fi, room service, and activities such as diving, fishing, and golfing for the guests.
Taprobane Island: A private and luxurious island that is situated off the coast of Weligama, a nearby town of Mirissa. It is a tropical paradise that has a villa, a pool, a garden, and a staff. You can rent the island for a day or a night, and enjoy the exclusivity and tranquility of the island. You can also swim, snorkel, kayak, or fish around the island, and see some dolphins and whales.
Mandara Resort: A chic and contemporary resort that is located on the beach, offering amazing views and access to the water. It has sleek and comfortable rooms and suites with balconies, a pool, a spa, and a restaurant. It also offers free Wi-Fi, room service, and tours such as whale watching, surfing, and cycling for the guests.
Best Restaurants in Mirissa
Mirissa has a variety of restaurants and cafes that serve delicious and diverse cuisines, from local to international. You can find something that satisfies your taste buds and budget, and enjoy the ambiance and service of the places. Here are some of the best restaurants in Mirissa:
Dewmini Roti Shop
Dewmini Roti Shop is a small and cozy place that serves the best rotis in Mirissa. Rotis are thin and flat breads that are stuffed with different fillings, such as cheese, banana, chocolate, chicken, or fish. You can also try their curries, soups, salads, and juices. The prices are very reasonable, and the portions are generous.
Zephyr Restaurant & Bar
Zephyr Restaurant & Bar is a trendy and lively place that serves the best seafood and cocktails in Mirissa. You can enjoy the fresh and tasty dishes, such as lobster, prawns, calamari, or tuna, and the refreshing and creative drinks, such as mojitos, margaritas, or sangrias. You can also enjoy the music, the atmosphere, and the views of the beach and the sunset.
Papa Mango
Papa Mango is a fun and funky place that serves the best pizza and pasta in Mirissa. You can choose from a variety of toppings and sauces, such as cheese, ham, mushrooms, pesto, or bolognese, and enjoy the thin and crispy crust and the rich and creamy flavor. You can also try their burgers, salads, and desserts, such as brownies, ice cream, or cheesecake.
Best Time to Visit Mirissa
Mirissa is a year-round destination, as it has a tropical climate that is warm and sunny throughout the year. However, there are some factors that may affect your travel plans, such as the weather, the crowds, and the prices. Here are some of the best times to visit Mirissa:
November to April
This is the peak season in Mirissa, as it is the dry season and the best time for whale watching. The weather is sunny and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. The sea is calm and clear, and the beaches are crowded and lively. This is also the most expensive time to visit Mirissa, as the accommodation and transportation prices are higher, and the availability is lower. You may need to book in advance and expect some traffic and noise.
May to October
This is the off season in Mirissa, as it is the rainy season and the worst time for whale watching. The weather is unpredictable and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. The sea is rough and murky, and the beaches are empty and quiet. This is also the cheapest time to visit Mirissa, as the accommodation and transportation prices are lower, and the availability is higher. You may find some bargains and discounts, and enjoy some peace and solitude.
Mirissa is a wonderful place to visit, as it has something for everyone. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, the exciting activities, the delicious food, and the friendly people. You can also explore the nearby attractions, such as Galle Fort, Weligama, or Koggala. Mirissa is a place that will make you fall in love with Sri Lanka, and leave you with unforgettable memories.