Travel Guide to Matara Beach
Experience the tranquil beauty of Matara Beach, where golden sands and vibrant culture await every traveler in Sri Lanka's southern paradise.
A brief summary to Matara Beach
- Matara, LK
Serenity on the Sands: Discover Matara Beach
Matara Beach, situated along the stunning southern coastline of Sri Lanka, is a haven for beach lovers and adventure seekers. This picturesque beach boasts soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters that gently lap against the shore, making it the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The vibrant atmosphere is complemented by the lush palm trees swaying in the breeze, creating a serene environment for relaxation. The beach is well-known for its breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple, providing an enchanting backdrop for evening strolls. Beyond lounging on the beach, Matara offers a variety of water sports for the adventurous spirit. From surfing the gentle waves to snorkeling among colorful marine life, there's no shortage of activities to keep you engaged. Local surf schools provide lessons for beginners, ensuring a fun and safe experience for all. The nearby coral reefs offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore the underwater world teeming with vibrant fishes and corals. Matara Beach is not just about natural beauty; it’s also rich in culture and history. Explore the nearby ancient temples and colonial architecture that reflect the region’s heritage. The local markets are bursting with flavors and colors, where you can sample traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and shop for handcrafted souvenirs. As you soak in the sun, the sounds of local musicians and the aroma of street food will enhance your experience, making Matara Beach a destination that captivates all your senses.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography and fewer crowds.
- Try local seafood dishes at the beach shacks for an authentic taste of Matara.
- Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated while enjoying the sun to make the most of your beach day.
- Check the local surf conditions if you plan to surf, as the waves can vary throughout the year.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Mirissa, head towards the main road, Galle-Matara Road (A2). You can find this road by walking towards the beach and then turning left. Continue walking along the beachfront until you reach the main road. Once you are at Galle-Matara Road, turn left and walk along the roadside. You will pass by several local shops and cafes. Keep walking straight for about 7 kilometers. You will know you are approaching Matara when you start to see more local businesses and residential areas. Eventually, you will reach the entrance to Matara Beach, where you can enjoy the scenic views and relax on the sandy shores.
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Tuk-Tuk
From your location in Mirissa, find a tuk-tuk service. You can easily hail one from the main street, or ask your hotel to arrange one for you. Once you are in the tuk-tuk, ask the driver to take you to Matara Beach. The journey will take around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The driver will take you along the Galle-Matara Road (A2), which is the most direct route. Enjoy the views as you pass through local villages and landscapes. The tuk-tuk will drop you off right at Matara Beach, where you can explore the area.
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Public Bus
To reach Matara Beach by public bus, start at the bus stop in Mirissa, which is located near the main road. Look for a bus heading to Matara. The buses are frequent, and the fare is quite cheap (usually around 20-30 LKR). Board the bus and enjoy the ride, which takes approximately 30-40 minutes. The bus will stop at the main bus station in Matara. Once you arrive, exit the bus and head towards the coastline. Matara Beach is a short walk from the bus station; simply follow the signs or ask locals for directions. It's about a 10-minute walk to reach the beach.
Attractions Nearby to Matara Beach
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Paravi Duwa Bridge | පරෙවි දූව පාලම | மாத்தறை புறாத்தீவு பாலம்
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Buddha's Statue
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පරෙවි දූව විහාරස්ථානය - Parewi Duwa Temple
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Matara Fort
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The Shrine of Our Lady of Matara
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Crocodile Watching And River Safari Matara
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Nilwala River
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Hotel Nawathana
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Nilwala Park
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Matara Beach Park | මාතර වෙරළ උද්යානය
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Star Fort - Matara | තාරකා කොටුව - මාතර
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Matara Bodhiya | මාතර බෝධිය | மாதாரா போ மரம்
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Tsunami Memorial
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Nilawala Estuary
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Weheragampita Rajamaha Viharaya/වෙහෙරගම්පිට නාලන්දා පිරිවෙන
Landmarks nearby to Matara Beach
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Matara Beach
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Matara Paravi Duwa Beach
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පරෙවි දූව විහාරස්ථානය - Parewi Duwa Temple
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Sky Lite 3D Cinema - Matara
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Parevidoowa temple
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Matara Rest House
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Matara Fort
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Matara Clock Tower
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මාතර තානායම
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The Shrine of Our Lady of Matara
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City Centre
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Dutch Reformed Church, Matara
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Crocodile Watching And River Safari Matara
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Nilwala River
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The Dutchman's Street