Whale watching
Morning boat trips look for blue whales, sperm whales and dolphins in the deep water offshore.
South Coast · Sri Lanka
Mirissa, whales, surf and a crescent bay.
Mirissa is a relaxed south-coast beach town and Sri Lanka's best-known base for whale watching. Palm-fringed sand, sunset cafés and nearby surf breaks make it an easy place to end a journey.
What to see
The highlights of Mirissa.
Coconut Tree Hill
A palm-covered headland that is one of the island's most photographed viewpoints.
Weligama and nearby beaches
Gentle surf for beginners at Weligama, and quieter coves along the coast.
Sunsets by the sea
Fresh seafood and beach cafés along the bay.
When to go
Best time to visit
The beach and whale-watching season usually runs from about November to April, when the sea is calmer. From May to September the south-west monsoon brings rougher seas.
How long
How many nights
Two to four nights, depending on how much beach time you want at the end of your trip.
Getting there
Travel by private car
About two and a half hours by private car from Colombo on the Southern Expressway, and around three hours from Yala.
Published Navigeto journeys
Private tours that include Mirissa.
Every route can be changed: the number of nights, hotels, pace and stops.
- Southern Coast Escape4 days · 3 nights
- Premium Coast & Highlands9 days · 8 nights
- Safari to Mirissa8 days · 7 nights
- Sigiriya Island Panorama13 days · 12 nights
- Ella & Mirissa Adventure9 days · 8 nights
- Tea Trails & Twin Coasts10 days · 9 nights
- Ella & Mirissa Retreat9 days · 8 nights
- East Coast Odyssey11 days · 10 nights
- Mirissa Coastal Break4 days · 3 nights
- Caves to Mirissa8 days · 7 nights
Good to know
Mirissa questions, answered.
When can you see whales in Mirissa?
Whale-watching trips usually run from about November to April. Sightings vary from day to day; boats leave early in the morning.
Is Mirissa good for swimming?
In the calmer months the bay is good for swimming. Always follow local advice on currents and flags.
How do I combine Mirissa with the rest of Sri Lanka?
Mirissa works well as the last stop after the hill country and Yala, followed by a drive back to Colombo or the airport.
Start planning
Add Mirissa to your Sri Lanka trip.
Tell us your dates and who is travelling. A Sri Lanka specialist will suggest a route, hotels and a private car, with a clear quotation.
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