'Powdery sands, towering palms and a heavenly coral-reefed bay - Beruwela is nothing short of beach holiday bliss.'
If Sri Lanka has one all-out beach resort, Beruwela is it. Just north of Bentota, it's a plum spot for serious beach lovers thanks to its dazzling combination of sun, sea and sand. The Beach is something else. Soft golden sand that feels like warm talcum powder underfoot. Giant palm fronds rustling lightly in the tropical breeze. All in a breath–stoppingly beautiful corralled bay. Put simply, it's gorgeous. When you fancy swapping the scenery for a taste of authentic Sri Lankan food, tuck into a spicy prawn korma or scented coconut fish curry at one of the cheap and cheerful cafes edging the sands. Follow it with a sticky rice pudding drizzled in sweet palm treacle. And as a fitting finale, order a glass of the locally made firewater, arrack, fermented from the sap of the coconut palms swaying above you. Delicious. While you're here take time to visit Aluthgama. Squeezed between Beruwela and Bentota, this vibrant little town brims with fascinating food, souvenir and sari stalls. It also boasts a lively fish market where fishermen offload the morning's catch from outrigger canoes. Slightly quieter attractions include the atmospheric Kachimalani Mosque, built where the first Muslim traders arrived on the island in the 11th century. And if you fancy messing about in a boat, take a trip to the picturesque nearby island to climb its lighthouse and wallow in the stunning views. We promise you won't forget them in a hurry.
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Beruwela hotels and apartments
Our hotels and apartments in Beruwela include Eden Resort And Spa, Neptune and Riverina Hotel.
More Sri Lanka holiday destinations
Looking for holidays in Sri Lanka? Our Sri Lanka holiday destinations include Ahungalla, Bentota, Beruwela, Colombo, Kalutara, Negombo, Wadduwa and Waikkal.
Beaches
This idyllic holiday resort is set on a long stretch of honey-coloured sand. Tall palm trees sway gently in the breeze and border Beruwela's pretty bay. The coast curves around to a small cluster of rocky islands which act as a natural breakwater and ensure that the warm, turquoise waters of the sea are always blissfully calm. Windsurfing and deep sea fishing can be undertaken here.
Eating out
There is a small selection of restaurants that serve international dishes and excellent seafood. However, it's worth seeking out an eatery that serves traditional Sri Lankan fare. The island is famous for its curry dishes which can be very hot indeed, although adjustments will often be made to suit Western palates. Chicken, mutton, beef, fish and vegetable curries feature on most menus and are served with Sri Lankan rice. It is typical to eat a curry with a 'parripu', red lentil dahl, or a similar pulse side dish.
Nightlife
There are plenty of bars where you can while away an evening enjoying a fruity cocktail.
Shopping
The roads leading into Beruwela are dotted with shops selling handicrafts and jewellery. The beach is home to a number of huts that sell everything and anything from clothes to wooden carvings. You may want to try out your haggling skills here and secure a real bargain.
Local information
The resort boasts beautiful landscaped gardens where you can relax and get back to nature. It's also well worth exploring the lush inland vegetation which overflows with tropical flowers. Beruwela is considered to be the first Muslim settlement established in Sri Lanka - it was founded by Arab traders as far back as the 8th century. Close to the lighthouse on the beachhead stands a famous mosque which serves as a living reminder of Sri Lanka's colourful past.
Location
58km south of Colombo
Transfer time
2 hours 45 minutes approximately, depending on flight arrival times
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