Tangalle

Another 48 kilometers to the south of Matara lies Tangalle (or Tangalla) is one of the region’s more developed beach destinations, strung out along one of the South’s most stunning stretches of coastline, with a string of simple guesthouses – and a handful of upmarket hotels and villas – dotted along the coves and beaches that line the oceanfront here. However, tourism has never taken off as much as the entrepreneurial locals would like, and Tangalle remains decidedly low-key in comparison to the resorts further west. Tangalle’s allure is enhanced by the abundance of rewarding attractions in the surrounding countryside, such as the Hoo-maniya blowhole, the giant Buddha and gaudy shrines of Wewurukannala, and the magnificent rock temples of Mulkirigala, all of which can be combined into a rewarding half-day excursion. Furthermore, the nearby beach at Rekawa is Sri Lanka’s premier turtle-watching location, and dedicated ornithologists may be interested in a visit to the little-visited Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, which can be combined with a visit to the mysterious plateau at Ussangoda.

Tangalle’s beaches extend for several kilometres on either side of Tangalle town, a bustling but unremarkable provincial hub with a dusty selection of shops and cafés, as well as the obligatory clocktower and anarchic bus station. The most developed stretch of coast, though still sleepy, is to the east of town, along Medaketiya and Medilla beaches, a long, straight stretch of golden sand lined with a string of guesthouses built in anticipation of a flood of tourists who have yet to arrive. Beyond Medilla, approximately 4 kilometres northeast of Tangalle town, the coastline narrows to a sandspit at idyllic Kapuhenwala beach in Marakolliya, backed by the mangrove-fringed Rekawa lagoon.

The most stunning stretch of Tangalle coastline can be found a few kilometres further west at the village of Goyambokka, with a magnificent rocky promontory flanked by two gorgeous beaches – to the west of the headland, Godellawela Beach (or “Silent Beach,” as it’s popularly known) is an absolute picture, though you’ll have to share it with Amanwella hotel guests.

Surfing is a popular pastime in Tangalle. Because of the beach break that creates gentle waves, many surf camps have set up in the area, making it ideal for beginners. Tangalle’s location between rocks and a hill means that onshore winds, which can usually dampen the mood, have little effect on the waves.