Sri Lanka’s Tangalle Beach in the southeast region of the island is a tranquil haven for those seeking respite from the daily urban grind. With its calm waters, white shores and lush green backdrop, there’s plenty to explore at the beach and the surrounding areas. Here’s a quick guide to discovering the charms of Sri Lanka’s Tangalle Beach.
Location and History
Tangalle Beach is located approximately 205 kilometres southeast of Colombo, with the closest city being Matara, which is 35 km away. The beach’s white sands stretch on for kilometres with bays and beaches along the north and south sides. Tangalla was initially a fishing village which was greatly affected by the 2004 tsunami, and although the beach is recognised as one of the ‘jewels of the south coast’, Tangalle beach is not heavily populated with tourists, making it a perfect spot to relax, enjoy breathtaking sunsets or the snacks and drinks at the various cafes and restaurants that line the beach. Guests staying at the nearby Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort will find the beach just a short distance away both on foot and by car.
How to Get There
There are multiple ways to reach Tangalle from Colombo. The fastest is by a 3-hour drive via the southern expressway, where you can exit at the Beliatta expressway and drive for another 9 km south. You can also take the public bus to Matara (EX 01) and then take a second bus to Tangalle. Note that the highway bus ride may take 3 to 4 hours with non-highway buses taking longer. A third option is to use the train to reach Beliatta which is 9km away from Tangalle; you can then find your way for the rest of the journey.
The best time to visit Tangalle Beach is during the high season which falls from November to April, when the weather is warm and dry, making it perfect to enjoy the waters and relax on the beach. You can also visit from May to October if you want to avoid tourist crowds, although the sea can be rougher during this time of the year.
Activities to Enjoy
There are several activities to enjoy by which you can explore the waters at Tangalle Beach. Surfing is one of the popular things to do in Tangalle as it offers a variety of surf breaks for different skill levels so that beginner and experienced surfers can make the most of their time there. Scuba diving and snorkelling are great for those looking to explore beneath the waves. Those who venture into the depths can discover vibrant marine life at Shipwreck Point, while the reefs of Mulgirigala Beach are perfect for snorkelling enthusiasts.
Additionally, kayaking at Tangalle Lagoon is ideal if you want to venture further away from the beach. It gives you the perfect opportunity to explore the lagoon and the rich mangrove environments that harbour various plants and animals.
Image via Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort
Nearby Attractions
Apart from the sandy shores of Tangalle Beach, there’s plenty to explore in the surrounding regions as well. The Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project is a short drive away from Tangalle and offers the perfect opportunity to witness sea turtles arriving on the shore at night to lay their eggs.
The Mulkirigala Rock Temple is situated towards the northeast of Tangalle within a grove of coconut trees and jungle on a rocky hill. Reaching the temple requires a climb up 500 stone steps but the journey is rewarded with the magnificent sight of a reclining Buddha statue along with other sculptures, and paintings that date back to the 18th century.
There is also ample opportunity to witness the region’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty. The Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary is home to several bird species and is ideal for bird-watching enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Ussangoda National Park is a special designated area with unique geographical and archaeological features. It is commonly known for its intriguing red soil and lack of vegetation, although there are plenty of small animals and birds that visit the area.
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