Dalawella Beach Sri Lanka
A serene palm-fringed beach on Sri Lanka's south coast, famous for its gentle waves, abundant sea turtles, and iconic rope swing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for turtles & fewer crowds
Dalawella Beach Sri Lanka
Best Time
Best for turtles & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene palm-fringed beach on Sri Lanka's south coast, famous for its gentle waves, abundant sea turtles, and iconic rope swing.
"The fact that you can meet and see beautiful turtles at random times around the beach is an amazing bonus."
🎯 Go Early for Turtles
See sea turtles up close by visiting Dalawella Beach in the morning. It's free!
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Swims
The calm waters and natural rock formations make it ideal for swimming with kids.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Palm Tree Swing
Dalawella Beach
Capture that quintessential Sri Lankan beach photo on the famous rope swing overlooking the ocean.
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Swimming with Sea Turtles
Dalawella Beach
Witness majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat, often visible close to shore, especially in the mornings.
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Tranquil Beach Vibes
Dalawella Beach
Enjoy the soft sand, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful swim or sunset viewing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Morning Turtle Encounters
+1Best Time for Calm Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Turtles
See sea turtles up close by visiting Dalawella Beach in the morning. It's free!
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Swims
The calm waters and natural rock formations make it ideal for swimming with kids.
📸 Iconic Swing Photos
Don't miss the famous palm tree rope swing for unforgettable vacation snaps.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with nearby Unawatuna for more dining and accommodation options. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Turtles
See sea turtles up close by visiting Dalawella Beach in the morning. It's free!
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Swims
The calm waters and natural rock formations make it ideal for swimming with kids.
📸 Iconic Swing Photos
Don't miss the famous palm tree rope swing for unforgettable vacation snaps.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with nearby Unawatuna for more dining and accommodation options. +1
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Enjoy the soft colors and calm atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dalawella Beach is praised for its beautiful, calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and family visits. The chance to see sea turtles up close is a major highlight, and the iconic palm tree swing offers a fun photo opportunity. While some find it a bit quiet or note seasonal variations in turtle sightings, it's generally considered a pleasant and picturesque spot on Sri Lanka's south coast.
"One of the most beautiful beaches in the Ahangama area, and probably the second best beach in Sri Lanka that I have been to. The fact that you can meet and see beautiful turtles at random times around the beach is an amazing bonus"
Teo Ionita
"Dalawella Beach is a great place for swimming and watching turtles. We've seen 6+ turtles most of the time when we are visiting. The sea is very calm in this place, and you can swim with the kids. If you have snorkels, you can watch beautiful fish around the rocks as well."
Irushan Withanawasam
"Dalawella Beach is great for kids. The water is calm and we even saw turtles. A fun and safe place for the whole family!"
Lakshitha Wijayarathna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take an AC bus from Colombo to Unawatuna, which is a short ride away. From Unawatuna, a tuk-tuk can easily take you to Dalawella Beach. +1
Dalawella Beach is located near Unawatuna on Sri Lanka's south coast. It's a well-known spot, so most local tuk-tuk drivers will know the way.
Public buses are a popular and affordable option for traveling between coastal towns like Mirissa, Weligama, and Unawatuna.
While direct buses might not stop exactly at Dalawella, taking a bus to Unawatuna and then a short tuk-tuk ride is the most common method.
The bus journey from Colombo to Unawatuna can take a few hours, depending on traffic and the type of bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Dalawella Beach itself is free to access. There are no admission fees to enjoy the sand, sea, and observe the turtles.
The iconic palm tree rope swing is a natural feature and typically free to use, though some nearby establishments might offer it as part of their amenities.
Dalawella Beach is open 24/7 as it's a public beach. However, for turtle spotting and the best experience, early mornings and late afternoons are recommended.
The main guideline is to be respectful of the environment and wildlife, especially the sea turtles. Avoid touching them.
Yes, as a public beach, Dalawella is accessible at all hours. However, safety and visibility are best during daylight.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the calm waters, watch and swim near sea turtles, take photos on the famous rope swing, and enjoy the sunset. +1
Yes, the beach is known for its calm waters, especially when the tide is out, making it suitable for swimming and even for families with children.
Many visitors report seeing multiple turtles, particularly in the morning. However, sightings can vary. +1
Early morning offers good light and fewer crowds for the rope swing and turtle spotting. Late afternoon provides beautiful sunset backdrops.
While public restrooms might be limited, many nearby cafes and accommodations offer facilities for patrons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes along Dalawella Beach and in the nearby Unawatuna area, offering local and international cuisine.
You'll find fresh seafood, Sri Lankan specialties, and international dishes. Some places offer great beachside dining experiences.
Exploring local eateries in Unawatuna or trying street food can offer more affordable choices compared to beachfront restaurants.
Many beachside cafes open in the morning, offering breakfast options and coffee, perfect for starting your day.
Grandgers Unawatuna is mentioned for good food and vibes. Levels Unawatuna is also a noted accommodation with dining options. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic palm tree swing, the sea turtles, and the sunset are prime subjects. The beach itself offers beautiful natural scenery. +1
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, provides the most flattering light for beach photography.
Experiment with different angles, including from the beach looking up, or from slightly elevated spots for a wider view.
Yes, you can take photos of the turtles, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid using flash.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the beach landscape and swing. A telephoto lens can be useful for getting closer shots of turtles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond swimming and turtle spotting, the iconic rope swing provides a fun photo opportunity that kids will love. While facilities might be basic, the nearby town of Unawatuna offers more dining and accommodation options that cater to families. Visiting in the morning ensures calmer waters and a better chance of seeing turtles before the crowds arrive.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The natural beauty of the beach, with its soft sand, clear waters, and swaying palms, provides a picturesque setting. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the sea turtles, especially in the early morning light, for truly unique shots. +1Timing is crucial for the best photographic results. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting.
🧘 Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
The opportunity to observe sea turtles in their natural habitat adds a unique element to a solo trip, offering a moment of connection with nature.
+1 Enjoying a quiet sunset with the gentle sound of waves is a perfect way to end the day. The nearby town of Unawatuna offers a good selection of budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, making it easy to find comfortable and affordable accommodation. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Dalawella's Sea Turtles
When visiting, remember to be respectful. While it's tempting to get close, avoid touching the turtles or disturbing their natural behavior. The best approach is to observe them from a safe distance and capture photos without intrusive actions. This ensures the turtles continue to frequent the area for future visitors to enjoy.
Some visitors note that sightings can vary, and there might be times when turtles are less visible, particularly if the seas are rough or during certain seasons. However, the general consensus is that Dalawella offers one of the best chances to encounter these gentle giants in Sri Lanka.
Navigating Sri Lanka's South Coast by Public Transport
For reaching Dalawella Beach specifically, the most common route involves taking an AC bus from major cities like Colombo to Unawatuna. From Unawatuna, a short and inexpensive tuk-tuk ride will bring you directly to the beach. This combination of bus and tuk-tuk is a popular and practical method for many travelers.
While public buses are budget-friendly, they can get crowded, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to keep your belongings secure and be prepared for a more adventurous journey compared to private transport. However, the experience of traveling like a local is often a highlight for many visitors.
Capturing the Iconic Dalawella Beach Swing
+1To get the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The soft, warm light enhances the tropical ambiance and creates beautiful silhouettes. Experiment with different angles; shooting from the sand or slightly elevated positions can provide varied perspectives.
While the swing itself is a major draw, don't forget to capture the surrounding beauty of Dalawella Beach, including the calm waters, the palm trees, and the vibrant sunsets. These elements contribute to the overall charm and make for a well-rounded photographic collection of your visit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit