Unawatuna is located just 6km to the southeast of Galle and is a beautiful escape with orange-sand (yes, orange) beaches and turquoise waters. It is a great place for ocean-lovers to stay while remaining close to everything Galle has to offer. There are many activities in Unawatuna, including but not limited to, surfing, diving, cooking classes and beach yoga.

Where To Stay
There are hostels, hotels and resorts to choose from in Unawatuna. Unlike many other destinations in Asia, Sri Lanka is genuinely a year-round vacation destination. But, in the southwest region, rainy season can be between May and September, so this is the season to get a great deal in Unawatuna. I visited Unawatuna during this time of year and only experienced a very small amount of rainfall, but I was able to lock in a great deal on accommodations with the most delicious Sri Lankan breakfast included daily.

What To Do

• Japanese Peace Pagoda
  The Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa that was built to inspire peace after WWII. It was designed by Fuji and constructed by Nipponzan Monks to remind people from all race and creeds to be peaceful to others. Dress appropriately when visiting the pagoda.
• Beach Nightlife
  Most recently, Unawatuna has begun to compete with Hikkaduwa as Sri Lanka’s beach-party capital. Many discos and bars have begun to line the beach to give travelers a unique nightlife experience.

• Handunugoda Tea Museum and Virgin White Tea Plantation
  This small, family owned Virgin White Tea Plantation also has a comprehensive museum on its grounds. The Handunugoda Tea Museum shows the tea process first-hand and has information and samples of Sri Lanka’s famous teas and other teas from around the world. This tea estate also sells its own tea blends – my personal favorite is the lemongrass tea.