Sri Lanka · Beach & Island

4-Day Southern Sri Lanka Beach Tour with Galle Fort and Whale Watching

4 Days Round trip from Colombo Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Relax on the golden beaches of Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Bentota
02 Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort and its historic streets
03 Experience seasonal whale and dolphin watching along the Mirissa coast
04 Cruise through mangroves on a Madu Ganga river safari and visit a turtle hatchery

Discover Sri Lanka's stunning southern coastline on a four-day journey blending beaches, culture, and nature. Explore the historic streets of Galle Fort, relax on the golden sands of Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Bentota, and enjoy scenic coastal drives. Experience seasonal whale watching in Mirissa, cruise through mangroves on a Madu Ganga river safari, visit a turtle hatchery, and enjoy relaxed beach time with guided sightseeing throughout this balanced itinerary. It suits couples, families, and leisure travellers seeking coastal charm in comfort.

Discover Sri Lanka's stunning southern coastline on a four-day journey blending beaches, culture, and nature.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Colombo, Galle, Bentota, Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, Kosgoda, Unawatuna

Languages Arabic, English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Colombo to Hikkaduwa, Tsunami Memorial and Beach Time

06:30 AM - Pickup from Colombo by private vehicle.
09:00 AM - Arrive in Hikkaduwa.
09:30 AM - Visit the Tsunami Photo Museum and Tsunami Memorial.
Learn about the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and its impact on Sri Lanka.
11:00 AM - Explore Hikkaduwa Beach and the Coral Sanctuary.
Free time for swimming, snorkeling (optional), or relaxing by the beach.
01:00 PM - Lunch at a beachside restaurant in Hikkaduwa.
02:30 PM - Leisure time at the beach.
04:00 PM - Check in at the hotel and enjoy free time.
07:30 PM - Dinner at the hotel or a nearby beach cafe.
09:00 PM - Overnight stay in Hikkaduwa.

Day 02

Hikkaduwa to Galle Fort and Unawatuna

07:30 AM - Breakfast at the hotel and check out.
08:30 AM - Depart for Galle.
09:30 AM - Enjoy a guided walking tour of Galle Fort.
Visit the Lighthouse, Dutch Reformed Church, ramparts, and historic streets.
12:30 PM - Lunch inside Galle Fort.
02:00 PM - Visit Jungle Beach or the Japanese Peace Pagoda.
Enjoy scenic coastal views and natural surroundings.
04:00 PM - Check in at the hotel in Unawatuna.
05:30 PM - Take a sunset walk along Unawatuna Beach.
Enjoy fresh coconut drinks and beach relaxation.
07:30 PM - Dinner at the hotel or a popular beachfront restaurant.
09:00 PM - Overnight stay in Unawatuna.

Day 03

Whale Watching in Mirissa and Transfer to Bentota

05:30 AM - Early morning departure to Mirissa.
06:00 AM - Check in for the whale watching cruise.
Whale and dolphin watching tour (approximately 4-5 hours).
Available seasonally from November to April, weather permitting.
11:00 AM - Return to shore and enjoy brunch or snacks at a beach cafe.
12:30 PM - Relax at Mirissa Beach.
Optional activities such as surfing or swimming.
03:00 PM - Depart for Bentota (approximately 2.5-3 hours' drive).
06:00 PM - Check in at the hotel in Bentota.
07:30 PM - Dinner at the hotel.
09:00 PM - Overnight stay in Bentota.

Day 04

Bentota, Madu River Safari, Turtle Hatchery and Colombo

07:30 AM - Breakfast at the hotel.
08:30 AM - Depart for the Madu Ganga River Safari.
09:00 AM - Enjoy the Madu River boat safari.
Cruise through mangroves, visit Cinnamon Island and small temples, and observe local wildlife.
11:00 AM - Visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery.
Learn about sea turtle conservation and hatchery operations.
12:30 PM - Lunch at a beachside restaurant.
01:30 PM - Leisure time at Bentota Beach.
Optional water sports or relaxation by the beach.
03:30 PM - Begin the return journey to Colombo.
06:30 PM - Drop off at your Colombo hotel or the airport.

Where this trip takes you

Galle Fort, Hikkaduwa Beach, Mirissa whale watching, Madu Ganga mangroves

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Colombo 7 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver
Pickup and drop-off from your Colombo hotel or the airport
Hotel accommodation as per the selected category
Breakfast at hotels
Guided sightseeing as per the itinerary
All government taxes and service charges
Tour assistance throughout the journey

What's Not Included

International or domestic flights
Visa fees
Lunches and dinners unless specified
Entrance fees not mentioned under inclusions
Snorkeling, surfing, and water sports charges
Personal expenses such as laundry, beverages, and tips
Expenses caused by weather, road conditions, or unavoidable circumstances
Galle Fort walking tour
Madu River boat safari
Whale watching cruise ticket (seasonal activity)

What to bring

Light, comfortable clothing suitable for tropical weather
Swimwear and a beach towel
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
Comfortable walking sandals or shoes
Personal medications and basic first-aid items
Camera or smartphone for photos
Cash for personal expenses and optional activities
Reusable water bottle

Know before you go

Whale watching is seasonal and operates from November to April, subject to sea conditions.
Snorkeling and water activities depend on weather and sea visibility.
Hotel check-in time is usually after 2:00 PM, and check-out is before 12:00 PM.
Early morning starts are required for whale watching days.
Modest clothing is recommended when visiting cultural or religious sites.
Always follow safety instructions during boat rides and water activities.
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, especially during whale watching.
Itineraries may be adjusted due to weather or operational conditions for safety.

Logistics