The languid village of Mirissa is worth a visit for its lovely beach and relaxing atmosphere, since it has mercifully escaped much of development that has overrun the other beach towns on the South Coast. Busy resorts are conspicuous by their absence; instead tiny shacks and modest guesthouses line the stretch of sand, which is backed by a dense swath of palm trees. In the evening, restaurant tables spill out onto the beach and diners can enjoy their meals while looking out to sea. Giragala or Parrot Rock at the beach’s eastern and boasts great views at sunset.

Mirissa’s popularity has grown in recent years as it has become one of Sri Lanka’s leading whale-watching destinations. In addition, both the western and the eastern ends of the beach are goods for other water sports such as surfing, snorkeling and sport fishing.

Island, the town offers some pretty walks into the jungle; visitors can ask their hotel or guesthouse for direction. The Buddhist Kandavahara temple is located to the south of the beach and is accessed via series of steep steps from the town’s main road. Although the temple is rather ordinary and offers little to see, there are great views of the ocean from this vantage point.