Top reasons to visit Unawatuna
- Stunning Beaches: Unawatuna boasts beautiful beaches with soft sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water sports.
- Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling activities like whale watching, jet skiing, and surfing, catering to outdoor enthusiasts.
- Cultural Richness: Explore local temples and churches, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of Sri Lanka.
- Charming Accommodations: A range of lodgings, from guesthouses to luxury hotels, ensures a comfortable stay for every budget.
- Friendly Hospitality: Experience the warm welcome of the locals, enhancing your overall visit to this coastal paradise.
Find great hotels in and around Unawatuna
Discover the perfect retreat in Unawatuna with a variety of accommodation options, from charming guesthouses to well-appointed hotels. Ideal for beach lovers, business travellers, and adventure seekers alike, Unawatuna offers a delightful selection of lodgings near the stunning beach. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing resort or a bustling hotel, you’ll find the ideal base to explore this beautiful coastal paradise.
- Radisson Blu Resort Galle: This luxurious 5-star resort, located approximately 8km from Unawatuna, offers a serene beachside retreat ideal for families seeking relaxation and adventure. With direct access to the beach, guests can enjoy sun-soaked days by the sea. The resort is particularly family-friendly, featuring amenities such as a dedicated children's pool and a complimentary children's club. The spacious rooms are designed with comfort in mind, ensuring a delightful stay for all ages. Its blend of modern comfort and a picturesque location makes it a standout choice for family vacations.
- Thaproban Pavilion Waves Unawatuna: Nestled in the heart of Unawatuna, this 5-star hotel boasts an impressive guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. Renowned for its adventurous spirit, it offers direct beach access along with a variety of thrilling outdoor activities such as fishing, snorkelling, and hiking nearby. The property caters well to families, providing several amenities including a children's pool and babysitting services. With its vibrant atmosphere and opportunities for adventure, Thaproban Pavilion Waves is a compelling option for families and adventure enthusiasts alike.
- Heaven By O: A charming 3-star establishment in Unawatuna, Heaven By O is perfect for travellers seeking a blend of adventure and business facilities. With an impressive guest rating of 9.8 out of 10, this hotel offers easy access to various recreational activities, including hiking and bicycle rentals. Its cosy accommodations ensure a comfortable stay, making it suitable for both leisure and business travellers. The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service contribute to a delightful experience, whether you're exploring the local area or conducting business.
Where to stay in and around Unawatuna
Unawatuna, a charming beach town in Southern Sri Lanka, offers an idyllic escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure. Nestled along stunning coastlines, visitors can enjoy vibrant local culture, luxury accommodations, and friendly hospitality. Explore the enchanting waves perfect for surfing, unwind in dreamy settings, and indulge in a weekend getaway that caters to all budgets. Nearby attractions and hotels enhance the experience, making Unawatuna a must-visit destination for any traveller looking to embrace the beauty of Sri Lanka.
- Galle: Situated a mere 5km from Unawatuna, Galle is a vibrant city that offers a blend of adventure and scenic beauty. The city is known for its year-round appeal, with peak visitor numbers between December and February. Galle is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking picturesque landscapes. Visitors can explore shopping centres, engage in thrilling golf sessions, or simply relax at the nearby beaches. The city is rich in history, featuring notable landmarks such as historic sites and monuments that reflect its colonial past.
- Talpe: Nestled in close proximity to Unawatuna, Talpe is a charming neighbourhood that draws beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. With moderate seasonal fluctuations in tourist arrivals, the best time to visit is from January to March. Talpe offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities, including swimming and beach relaxation. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly beaches and explore historic places that add a cultural touch to their stay. The area boasts shopping centres that cater to both local and tourist needs.
- Fort Galle: Located approximately 3km from Unawatuna, Fort Galle is an enchanting neighbourhood that showcases a rich cultural heritage. The area experiences seasonal visitor patterns, with the highest influx from December to February. Fort Galle is ideal for those interested in culture-themed experiences, outdoor activities, and stunning scenery. The historic fort and monuments in the vicinity make for intriguing exploration, while shopping centres provide modern conveniences. A visit to Fort Galle is a journey through time, coupled with the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Things to do in Unawatuna
Shopping
In Unawatuna, visit local shops for unique souvenirs like handmade crafts and spices. If you're up for a drive, head to Galle, around 8km away, where you can explore the Galle Fort area, offering a mix of boutiques, artisanal shops, and local markets for delightful finds.
Recreation
In Unawatuna, the Sri Lankan Ayurveda Wellness Centre offers tailored Ayurvedic treatments amidst serene surroundings, focusing on holistic healing. Nearby, the Unawatuna Beach Resort features yoga sessions by the ocean, allowing you to rejuvenate while enjoying the gentle sea breeze and picturesque views.
Adventure
Explore the vibrant coral reefs through snorkelling at Unawatuna Beach, where colourful marine life thrives. For a thrilling experience, try your hand at surfing the waves or embark on a boat trip to see the stunning coastline and perhaps spot some dolphins along the way.
Nightlife
Unawatuna's nightlife offers a vibrant blend of beach bars and lively restaurants. Try the beachfront bar, Happy Banana, for a laid-back vibe, or visit the trendy Kingfisher for cocktails and music. For a more energetic scene, the popular No.1. Unawatuna provides a lively atmosphere to dance the night away.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Unawatuna
Unawatuna is a budget-friendly destination, offering free access to stunning beaches like Unawatuna, Jungle, and Dalawella Beach. To save on transport, consider walking or using tuk-tuks for short distances. Visit during the cheaper months of May and September to October, with Saturday being the least expensive day for accommodation. Book hotels about a month in advance, or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Utilise Expedia's search tools to find affordable lodges and combine your hotel with flights and activities for extra discounts.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Unawatuna are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Unawatuna is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Unawatuna is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Unawatuna is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your options according to your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Unawatuna hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Unawatuna
Unawatuna is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers seeking adventure. With an array of attractions such as stunning beaches, cultural temples, and charming churches, visitors can immerse themselves in a rich eco-friendly experience. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore the local culture, Unawatuna has something to offer every traveller, making it an ideal spot for your next holiday in Sri Lanka.
- Jungle Beach: Nestled within Unawatuna, this hidden gem offers a tranquil escape with its pristine sands and lush greenery. Enjoy the serene beach vibes, perfect for swimming or sunbathing while surrounded by nature's beauty.
- Galle Lighthouse: Located just 3km away, this historic lighthouse stands as a symbol of Galle's maritime heritage. Explore the cultural significance of the area while enjoying picturesque views of the coastline, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
- Japanese Peace Pagoda: Situated within Unawatuna, this serene temple invites visitors to reflect and appreciate its architectural beauty. Surrounded by lush landscapes, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and a glimpse into the cultural connections between Sri Lanka and Japan.
Best time to go to Unawatuna
The best time to visit Unawatuna is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Unawatuna
Reaching Unawatuna from Colombo (CMB-Bandaranaike International Airport) is quite convenient, as the airport is located 135km away. Ideal accommodation options nearby include the luxurious Sentido Heritance Negombo, situated 8km from the airport, offering airport shuttle services. Jetwing Beach, another 5-star hotel, is 10km away, also providing easy access to the airport. For a more exclusive experience, the Jetwing Lagoon Wellness, an adults-only luxury resort, is located just 6km from the airport, ensuring a seamless connection for guests. These hotels provide excellent transportation services, making your journey to Unawatuna hassle-free.