Are you looking for the best things to do in Mirissa? Then you’re in the right place.
After days of sightseeing and road-tripping around Sri Lanka, I was ready to slow down. I wanted beaches, easy mornings, and sunset cocktails—and Mirissa delivered exactly that.
This little town on the south coast of Sri Lanka has a super relaxed vibe. It’s popular with younger travelers, really tuk-tuk friendly, and full of beach bars, surf schools, and laid-back cafés.
It’s also the perfect base to explore nearby gems like Weligama, Unawatuna, and Galle—all just a quick tuk-tuk or scooter ride away.
But here’s the thing…
There’s way more to Mirissa than just lounging on the beach.
In this Mirissa travel guide, you’ll find my favorite places to visit in Mirissa, plus a bunch of fun and easy day trips if you want to see more of the South Coast.
I’ve included honest tips from my trip, must-visit spots (yes, including Coconut Tree Hill), where to snorkel with turtles, and how to plan your time without feeling rushed.
So if you’re wondering how to make the most of your trip—this guide has you covered.
How to get to Mirissa
Getting to Mirissa is pretty easy, whether you’re coming from the hill country or the coast.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the best routes:
- From Galle: Galle is only 50 km away from Mirissa. You can catch a direct bus or tuk-tuk. It takes less than an hour and the ride is along the coast.
- From Colombo: Take the train down to Weligama, then hop in a tuk-tuk for the last 15-20 minutes to Mirissa. It’s one of the most affordable and scenic ways to travel.
- From Ella: There is a bus that connects Ella to Matara (~6h). From Matara, get on a tuk-tuk ride (~30 min) to reach Mirissa.
- From Kandy: Quite far from Mirissa. There’s no direct train, but you can get a train or bus to Colombo first, and then continue from there to Weligama or Matara.
The best way to explore Sri Lanka—hands down—is by renting your own tuk-tuk.
It gives you total freedom to go at your own pace, find hidden beaches near Mirissa, and stop for those random roadside coconuts. It’s especially useful if you’re planning to explore the south coast beyond Mirissa.
I’ve written a full guide on how to rent a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka (including how to get licensed). And if you’re booking through TukTukRental.com, don’t forget to use my promo code ATICKETTOTAKEOFF for 5% off.
Trust me, once you’re cruising down the coast in your own tuk-tuk, you’ll get why this is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka.
Best place to stay in Mirissa
My Recommendation: Banana Bunks Mirissa
For a delightful stay, consider Banana Bunks Mirissa. This charming accommodation offers spacious, clean, and comfortable rooms with unique indoor/outdoor showers.
Guests can enjoy the pool and dining options at the adjacent Petti Petti Beach Club, known for its good vibes, delicious food, and music.
The location is excellent, just a short walk across the road to the beach. Plus, the staff was always helpful and extremely polite, ensuring a pleasant stay.
Other Accommodation Options in Mirissa
Mirissa has many other options available, whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking to treat yourself.
From hostels with rooftop hangouts to boutique stays right by the beach, here are a few more great places to stay in Mirissa that cover all price ranges.
Map of Places to visit in Mirissa
Need help visualizing your trip? Check out this handy map with what to do in Mirissa.
📌HOW TO USE THE MAP: Click on the top left corner to access the various layers of the map. You can select the layers you’re interested in and also find out more about each point of interest by clicking on it in the left-hand sidebar or on the pin on the map. Add the map to your Google Maps by clicking on the star next to the title. To access the map, simply go to Google Maps ‘Saved’ and click on ‘Maps’!
Activities & Tours in Mirissa
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Best things to do in Mirissa
If you’re wondering what to do in Mirissa, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re here to chill, explore, or squeeze in a few day trips, there’s a little something for everyone.
Here’s a round-up of the best things to do in Mirissa, based on my own trip and everything I loved (or wish I’d known earlier!).
1. Visit Coconut Tree Hill
This is the most Instagrammed spot in Mirissa—and for good reason. Coconut Tree Hill is a small cliff covered in perfectly spaced palm trees, overlooking the ocean.
The views are especially stunning at sunset, when the sky turns pink and orange. It’s an easy walk from Mirissa Beach. Just head toward the eastern end, past the fisheries, and you’ll see a small path leading up.
It can get crowded. If you’re going for photos, try to visit earlier in the day to beat the crowds (and the harsh lighting).
2. Discover Secret Beach
Hidden behind a hill and a short walk from the main road, Secret Beach is a peaceful little cove that’s worth the detour. It’s much quieter than Mirissa Beach and the water is usually calm since it forms a bay—perfect for swimming or just floating around.
You’ll find a small café/restaurant right on the beach, and the best part is—you don’t need to pay for the sun umbrella and loungers. You just need to order something from the café. It’s a bit pricier than most places in Sri Lanka, but honestly, it’s worth it for the setting.
I ended up having lunch there (pretty basic and not amazing), but relaxing at this beach was one of those moments that felt kind of priceless.
It’s not totally secret anymore, but it still feels like a little escape from the buzz of town.
3. Swim at Mirissa Beach
This is the main beach in town and probably where you’ll spend the most time. It’s long, clean, and super easy to access from most accommodations.
Mornings are ideal for a peaceful swim, before the beach bars set up their loungers and the music kicks in. Later in the day, the vibe gets more social, with people grabbing drinks or just catching some sun.
If you’re not sure what to do in Mirissa at night, this beach becomes the heart of the action after dark.
4. Climb Parrot Rock
Parrot Rock is a small rocky island just off Mirissa Beach, and it’s one of the best viewpoints around—especially for sunrise or sunset.
You’ll need to cross through a shallow bit of water to get to it, so keep an eye on the tide. It’s totally doable during low tide, but can get sketchy when the water’s high.
Wear sturdy sandals or flip-flops. It’s a short climb, but the rocks can be slippery, and there’s not much grip if you’re barefoot.
5. Surf at Weligama Bay
Wondering, “is Mirissa good for surfing?”. It’s decent, but Weligama—just 10 minutes away—is way better for beginners.
The waves at Weligama Bay are gentle and consistent, making it one of the best spots in Sri Lanka to learn. You’ll find plenty of board rental shops right on the beach, plus locals offering surf lessons at super affordable prices.
Even if you’re not into surfing (or totally suck at it like I do), Weligama’s still a great place to hang out, people-watch, or grab a smoothie by the beach.
🎫 Want to learn to surf in Weligama? Book a private surf lesson with a local instructor—perfect for beginners and a fun way to ride your first wave.
6. Go Whale Watching
This is hands down one of the most unique things to do in Mirissa. From November to April, the south coast becomes a prime spot to see whales, dolphins, and—if you’re really lucky—even orcas.
Tours usually start early in the morning, around 6.30 am, and last a few hours. Make sure to book with a company that follows responsible whale-watching practices. You want to support ethical tourism, not overcrowded boats that stress the animals.
Bring motion sickness pills just in case—the sea can get rough even when it looks calm from shore.
Since I visited in September I didn’t get to do this activity which is a shame.
🎫 Spot whales and dolphins off the coast of Mirissa on this boat tour—breakfast included onboard!
7. Snorkel with Sea Turtles
If you’ve never swum alongside a sea turtle before, this is your chance.
The best time to go is early morning when the water is clearer and there are fewer people around. You can rent gear on the beach, but if you already have your own snorkel set, definitely bring it.
Seeing turtles in their natural habitat is one of those moments that sticks with you—just remember to keep your distance and never touch them.
🎫 Dive into the clear waters of Mirissa and snorkel alongside graceful sea turtles in their natural habitat. For an unforgettable experience, consider booking this snorkeling tour.
8. Grab a Bite or Drink at Petti Petti by Banana Bunks
If you’re looking for a chill spot to eat, drink, or just hang out for a bit—Pettit Petti is a solid pick. It’s part of Banana Bunks, one of my favorite places to stay in Mirissa, and the vibes here are always on point.
They serve everything from fresh juices and smoothie bowls to burgers, cocktails, and really good coffee. The space is cozy and stylish, perfect for a slow breakfast or early evening drink before heading to the beach bars.
What makes it even better? They’ve got direct beach access and a pool where you can lounge during the day—even if you’re not staying there. It’s a great alternative if you want something more laid-back than the louder beachfront spots.
9. Take a Day Trip to Yala National Park
If you’ve got a full day to spare, Yala is totally adding to your itinerary. It’s the most famous national park in Sri Lanka, known for its leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and birdlife.
I didn’t do Yala myself, but I did go on a safari in Minneriya, and it was easily one of the highlights of my trip. There’s just something unforgettable about seeing wild elephants up close in their natural environment. Honestly, I think a safari is a must-do on any trip to Sri Lanka.
You can book a tour directly from Mirissa. It’s a long day—but totally worth it if you’re into wildlife and want to see a wilder side of the island.
🎫 Want to spot leopards and elephants? Book this Yala safari tour from Mirissa for an epic wildlife adventure.
10. Chill at the famous Wijaya/Dalawella Beach
These two beaches sit right next to each other—and honestly, it’s hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. Together, they’re one of the best coastal spots near Mirissa for a relaxing afternoon.
Dalawella Beach is home to the iconic palm tree rope swing you’ve probably seen all over Instagram (you have to pay a small fee to use it, though).
Just a few steps away, you’ll also spot the famous Frog Rock poking out of the ocean—a cool little landmark that makes this stretch of beach feel extra special.
It’s also a great spot to see sea turtles swimming near the shore. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot them just a few meters out. Just make sure to keep your distance and avoid touching or chasing them—they’re beautiful to watch, but they need their space.
Sunsets here are incredible, or so I’ve heard—I had cloudy skies the day I went, so the view wasn’t as epic as I’d hoped. But even without the golden light, it was still such a peaceful spot to unwind.
11. Walk along Koggala Beach
If you’re in the mood for a quieter beach experience, Koggala Beach is perfect. It’s one of those long stretches of coastline that feels endless—and it’s rarely crowded.
You won’t find many beach bars or loungers here. It’s more about peaceful walks, reading a book under a palm tree, or watching the waves roll in.
It’s also one of the nicest beaches near Mirissa if you’re after something super low-key and local.
12. Explore Koggala Lake
Just inland from the beach, Koggala Lake is a total change of scenery.
You can take a boat tour around the lake, which usually includes stops at Cinnamon Island and a few lesser-known spots. It’s a nice break from the beach if you’re feeling sunburnt or just want to explore a different side of the south coast.
13. Take a Day Trip to Galle Fort
If you’ve got time for just one cultural day trip, make it Galle Fort. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colonial architecture, boutique shops, and oceanside cafés.
You can walk along the fort walls, visit local shops, and grab a bite at one of the trendy spots tucked into old Dutch buildings. Sunset from the lighthouse or ramparts is a must.
I’ve written a full guide to the best places to visit in Galle Fort—so if you’re heading that way, don’t miss it!
14. Visit Unawatuna
Unawatuna is a bit more lively than Mirissa. It’s got a bigger beach, a wider choice of restaurants, and a slightly more upbeat vibe.
You’ll find great swimming, snorkeling, and beach bars—plus easy access to Jungle Beach and the Peace Pagoda. It’s only a 45-minute tuk-tuk ride from Mirissa, making it perfect for a half-day trip.
If you’re staying longer on the south coast, Unawatuna is also a fun place to spend a couple of nights.
15. Relax at Jungle Beach
Tucked between Unawatuna and the Peace Pagoda, Jungle Beach really lives up to its name. You’ll need to follow a short jungle trail to reach it—but once you do, it’s rather calm, shady, and absolutely beautiful.
The path to the beach is a bit uneven, so I’d recommend wearing proper shoes. That said—I managed it with a sprained ankle, so you’ll probably be just fine.
It’s not completely hidden anymore, but it still feels like a little slice of paradise. Great for swimming or just laying low with a book.
There’s a beachfront restaurant nearby, along with a few small local vendors. While it’s not the cheapest spot around, it’s a great place to grab a fresh coconut and take in the view. I ended up trying the food at the restaurant too—nothing fancy, but pretty decent if you’re after a casual meal by the sea.
16. Hike to the Japanese Peace Pagoda
Just a short walk from Jungle Beach, the Japanese Peace Pagoda is a beautiful white stupa sitting high above the coast.
The walk up takes about 10-15 minutes and rewards you with sweeping views over the ocean and nearby beaches. It’s peaceful, uncrowded, and makes for a nice break from the sand.
Even if you don’t visit the temple, this is a great spot for admiring the views.
How to plan the perfect Mirissa itinerary
If you’re short on time but still want to soak up the best of the south coast, this 2-day Mirissa itinerary blends chill beach moments with a bit of adventure.
I haven’t included every place mentioned above—but these were my favorite spots and the ones I’d go back to in a heartbeat.
Day 1: Sunrise, Secret Beach & Galle Fort
Morning
- Start your day early with sunrise at Coconut Tree Hill. It’s way quieter in the morning and you’ll have the place mostly to yourself.
- If the tide’s low, climb up Parrot Rock for a different view over Mirissa Beach. If it’s high, I’d skip it.
- After all that, head to Petti Petti for a proper breakfast.
- Then make your way to Secret Beach for a slow morning. Swim, grab a lounger (just order something from the café), and enjoy lunch with a view.
Afternoon
- After lunch, hop in a tuk-tuk and head to Galle Fort. It’s about an hour away and packed with history, colonial architecture, cute cafés, and little boutiques to wander through.
- On your way back to Mirissa, stop at Dalawella Beach for sunset. Swing on the famous rope swing, snap a photo with Frog Rock, and soak in the last light of the day.
Day 2: Whales, Waves & Jungle Hideaways
Morning
- If you’re visiting between November and April, start your day with a whale-watching tour—one of the most unforgettable things to do in Mirissa.
- Not whale season? No problem. Head to Weligama for a private surf lesson—the waves are perfect for beginners. If surfing’s not your thing, go on a turtle snorkeling tour instead.
Afternoon & Evening
- After your morning adventure, wind down at Jungle Beach. You’ll need to follow a short jungle trail to reach it, but it’s calm, shady, and a great spot to lay low for a few hours.
- If you missed the sunset at Dalawella Beach the night before, you could totally go again—it’s that good. Either way, this is the perfect place to wrap up your time in Mirissa.
Best time to visit Mirissa
The best time to visit Mirissa is usually between November and April. This is when you’ll get the sunniest days, calmer seas, and peak whale-watching season. The ocean’s clearer during these months too—perfect if you’re planning to snorkel or want a good shot at spotting turtles near the shore.
From May to October, it’s technically the rainy season. A lot of people will tell you to avoid the south coast during this time. In fact, when I told locals up north I was heading to Mirissa in September, they were pretty convinced it would be a washout.
But here’s the truth: it turned out totally fine.
Sure, we had a bit of rain here and there—but it was never enough to ruin the day. Most showers passed quickly, and we still got to explore, hang out at the beach, and enjoy the town. I didn’t get that sunset shot on the rope swing at Dalawella Beach (clouds had other plans), but I still found it stunning in its own moody, peaceful way.
Sea conditions can be rough during the off-season though, which can affect snorkeling and turtle sightings. I didn’t get to see the turtles myself—mainly because the waves were too strong. But I can only imagine how magical it must be when the water’s calm and clear.
So, if you’re flexible and don’t mind the chance of a few rain showers, visiting outside of peak season can actually be pretty great—fewer crowds, lower prices, and plenty of room to breathe.
How many days to spend in Mirissa
You can see the main sights in just 2 days—that’s what I did. It was enough to hit the highlights like Coconut Tree Hill, Secret Beach, and even fit in a quick day trip.
But if your idea of a good time includes long beach days, lazy mornings with smoothie bowls, and exploring spots like Unawatuna or Galle at your own pace, I’d say give yourself 3 to 5 days.
Mirissa isn’t a place you want to rush through. It’s got that easygoing vibe that makes you want to slow down, stay another night, and just be.
Frequent Questions about Mirissa
» Is Mirissa worth visiting?
Yes, Mirissa is definitely worth visiting. This laid-back beach town on Sri Lanka’s south coast offers stunning beaches, whale watching, surfing, and easy access to nearby hotspots like Weligama and Galle. It’s a great mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit on any Sri Lanka itinerary.
» Is Mirissa expensive?
Mirissa feels more expensive than other parts of Sri Lanka. While it’s still affordable compared to Western destinations, food, drinks, and accommodation prices are slightly higher here—especially at beach cafés and touristy spots.
» Is Mirissa a party place?
Mirissa isn’t a full-on party town, but it does have a fun and social beach vibe. You’ll find casual beach bars with music, cocktails, and fire shows at night—perfect for a laid-back evening out without the crazy club scene.
» What is the currency in Sri Lanka?
The currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). As of March 2025, 1€ = 319 LKR.
To make purchases with a currency other than the one I usually use (Euro), I always use the Revolut card, which has many advantages.
One of the biggest advantages of the Revolut card while travelling is the fact it does not charge extra fees for using a different currency. I recommend making a Revolut Card for your next trip.
» Can I use a card to pay in Sri Lanka?
It’s best to carry cash for small purchases, especially in local markets or rural areas, as card payments may not always be accepted.
ATMs are widely available in Colombo and major cities, and international cards are usually supported. I used my Revolut Card and it worked perfectly.
» Where to withdraw money without paying fees in Sri Lanka?
To minimize fees when withdrawing money in Sri Lanka, consider using ATMs from Bank of Ceylon. They are widely available across the country and often have lower transaction fees for international cards.
If you use a Revolut Card, you won’t be charged any fees at all.
» What documents do you need to visit Sri Lanka?
To visit Sri Lanka, you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. Most travelers are also required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival, which serves as a visa.
The ETA can be applied for online and is usually processed within a few days. When I visited, it was 45€. You can also apply for a visa once you arrive in Sri Lanka. I know some people who did it.
Always check the latest visa requirements for your country before traveling to Sri Lanka.
» How to have internet in Sri Lanka?
Staying connected in Sri Lanka is easy, and using an eSIM is one of the best options. eSIMs allow you to activate mobile data on your phone without needing a physical SIM card. Airalo is a popular choice, offering plans starting at just 5€ for 1GB of data.
Alternatively, you can purchase a physical SIM from providers like Dialog or Mobitel at the airport or in the city. Both options ensure you have reliable internet access throughout your trip.
Final thoughts on Mirissa
So there you have it—some of the best things to do in Mirissa, from laid-back beach days to once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters. Whether you’re here to surf, spot whales, or just slow down for a few days, there’s no shortage of places to visit in Mirissa that’ll leave you with unforgettable memories.
Every traveler experiences this beach town a little differently—and that’s the beauty of it.
Been to Mirissa already or planning your first trip?
I’d love to hear what you’re most excited about—or what you loved most if you’ve already been. Drop your questions, tips, or favorite Mirissa moments in the comments below!
Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊
