Located towards extreme south in Sri Lanka, Unawatuna is a beach city. 108 km south of Colombo, it is one of the major tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. The city is rich in biodiversity. Unawatuna is bird-watchers’ paradise. You can spot more than about fifty species of birds there on the Rumassala Hills. The rare birds seen there are a variety of bulbuls, barbets, sunbirds, swallows, crows etc. There are a number of coral reefs too that you just can’t afford to miss.
If you love scuba diving, or haven’t tried yet, head to Unawatuna to get a lifetime memory. There are a lot of historical places in Unawatuna like museums and temples. A 2300 years old heritage temple is there in the main city of Unawatuna. You must also visit a peace pagoda near the Jungle Beach. The other adventurous activities that you must try are surfing, water biking, snorkelling, etc.
The local food of Unawatuna is just delicious. You will get the best of sea foods. There are a lot of beach-side restaurants that offers great food and drinks.
The nightlife in Unawatuna is not much famous. Small parties are organised by the resorts on the beaches during weekends. Some happening places for nightlife in Unawatuna are Koha Surf Lounge, 680 Blue, etc.
The other nearby places that you can visit are Dalawla, Thalpe, Weligama, Tangalla, Mirissa and Dondra.
Sri Lanka has a pretty high crime rate. Take good care of your belongings.
Drug abuse is also high in Sri Lanka. You might get drug offers on the beach. Stay away from those issues.
If you love surfing, head towards the west end of the bay as the other parts are really deep.
Don’t allow children to swim in Unawatuna beaches as there is a high chance to drown.
Avoid over friendly strangers.
Unawatuna markets sell gemstones. Make sure to buy the original ones only, as the fake ones are sold for the same prices like the authentic ones.
Don’t carry much cash to the beaches and keep the precious things safe in hotel locker.
You will get drinks on the beach, but drink responsibly.
The legal drinking age in Sri Lanka is 21. You will get a lot of pubs around the city and on the beaches too. But you should drink responsibly without getting into legal issues.
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