Would you like to be able to see dolphins, whales and other cetaceans in their natural habitat: the ocean? If so, you cannot miss the mirissa beach, from Sri Lanka, one of the most beautiful - by many considered the most - corners of the country.
Mirissa, the whale sanctuary, is located at the southern tip of the island, only about 200km from the equator. This secluded crescent-shaped beach is a privileged place, where you can relax and forget all the hustle and bustle of the afterlife. Something that all travelers who travel thousands of kilometers from all over the world seek to get lost in this destination.
Watching the whales and dolphins swimming in Mirissa up close is one of the most exciting water activities that can be done in Sri Lanka during a vacation, because this is one of the best places in the Indian Ocean, and perhaps the world, where these animals are better seen.
Here we will see blue whales, Bryde's whales, sperm whales, fin whales, and several different species of dolphins. In addition, here you can also see turtles and several exotic species of fish, such as bluefin tuna and flying fish. The whale watching season in Mirissa starts in November and ends in April, during the warmest season, the austral summer. The boats leave early in the morning, since in the afternoon it is more difficult to spot the cetaceans, and they last about four hours.
How to get to Mirissa?
To get to this beautiful beach for tourists, you have to leave from the city of Tangalle and head towards Mirissa. Buses take you from one place to another every day, so you will have no problem getting there. Of course, it is important that you know that the journey takes about 2 hours, so do not forget to take a good book, or another hobby so that the minutes go by more quickly.
Is there accommodation in Mirissa?
Of course. Being a special place for visitors, there is no shortage of places to stay, both on the main road and near the beach. Prices may vary depending on the number of tourists, but in general it's very cheap.
The accommodations in the area of the road are the cheapest (they can cost 800 Hindu rupees, which is equivalent to approximately 11 euros) but if you can avoid them, you will surely enjoy your trip more, since this area is very noisy.
To find the ideal area, you must go north, near the coast. There for 1000 rupees (13,30 euros) you can have a decent room, with bathroom, wifi, bathroom with hot water, and above all, clean. Being a bit off the road, the atmosphere is very quiet. What's more, you will be very close to such a magnificent beach.
Where to eat cheaply in Mirissa?
Before or after going to see one of the most beautiful sights in Sri Lanka, How about we fill our stomachs? The truth is that in Mirissa there are not many places to eat, except for the dozens of beach bars that you will find on the beach, but there are some.
On the main road there are two restaurants, where you can order different dishes at a surprising price: about 200 rupees (about 3 euros). It's interesting, isn't it? The only thing is that if you want to drink beer, you will have to wait to get to Mirissa beach, since they only serve it there, and by the way, very cheap too: about 2 euros.
What to do in Mirissa?
When you go to a spectacular tropical destination there are many things to do. You can take advantage of see free the turtles of the Sry Lanka Navy, Practice surf, fish, go snorkelling in the bay behind the island or climb the buddhist temple.
Mirissa, the whale sanctuary
But most tourists who travel here do so for one reason only: see the whales and other cetaceans in the wild. The tour costs about 3000 rupees (40 euros), and lasts between 3 and 4 hours, although you can save 500 rupees if you buy your ticket directly at the port.
The success rate, that is, the chances of finding a cetacean are very high, 95%. Most of the time they are seen early, already on the coast, but other times we may have to be more patient. Everything will depend on how far these animals have gone to look for food.
They leave early in the morning and return around noon, moment that you can take advantage of and eat a good plate of curry rice.
So now you know, if you want to enjoy an unforgettable experience, on an island with an enviable climate and exotic animals, go buying your ticket to Sri Lanka, and you'll see how much fun you have 🙂.