Unawatuna & Jungle Beach Day
A full beach day at Unawatuna and Jungle Beach near Galle on Sri Lanka's south coast. Swim and snorkel in a sheltered bay, hike to the Japanese Peace Pagoda on Rumassala hill and relax on a hidden jungle cove.
- Location: Unawatuna
- Duration: Full Day
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best time: November to April, when the south coast has calm, clear water and sunny days. Snorkel in the morning when the sea is calmest. From May to September the sea is rougher and swimming may be limited.
About this experience
The Unawatuna & Jungle Beach Day is a full day of swimming, snorkelling and easy walking on the coast just east of Galle. Unawatuna is a sheltered bay protected by a reef, and Jungle Beach is a small cove tucked beneath the forested Rumassala hill. It suits families, couples and beach lovers. What will you do? 1. Unawatuna Beach – swim in calm water, snorkel over the reef and enjoy beachside cafés. 2. Rumassala and the Japanese Peace Pagoda – a white stupa on the hilltop with views over Galle harbour and the fort. 3. Jungle Beach – a short walk or tuk-tuk ride through forest to a small, quieter cove for swimming and snorkelling. 4. Optional: lunch in Unawatuna and a sunset visit to Galle Fort's ramparts. What is the legend of Rumassala? In the Ramayana story, Rumassala is said to be a piece of the Himalayan mountain carried by Hanuman, which is why the hill has so many medicinal plants. Is it safe to swim at Unawatuna? Unawatuna is one of the safest swimming beaches on the south coast in season, thanks to its reef. Conditions change in the monsoon, so always check local flags. What can you see when snorkelling? Colourful reef fish, and sometimes sea turtles close to shore. How far is Unawatuna from Galle and Mirissa? About 6 km from Galle Fort (15 minutes) and 30 km from Mirissa (40 minutes). Why book with Figo Holidays? Figo Holidays is a Colombo-based destination management company running private tours across Sri Lanka and the Maldives. We arrange private transport, licensed guides and timings that avoid the heat and crowds, and build this experience into a tailor-made itinerary.Highlights
- Sheltered swimming at Unawatuna Bay
- Snorkelling over the reef
- Hidden Jungle Beach cove
- Japanese Peace Pagoda on Rumassala
- Views over Galle harbour
- Possible sea turtle sightings
- Beachside lunch
Travel tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, water and snorkel gear (or rent it locally). Don't touch or stand on coral. Wear sandals for the forest path to Jungle Beach. Keep valuables secure while swimming. Check flags before entering the water.