Koggala Beach: Your complete guide to planning your next vacation

Koggala is a tiny beach town on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, located in Galle District, Southern Province, and governed by a Municipal Council. Koggala is bounded on one side by a reef and on the other by a large lake. Koggala features one of Sri Lanka’s longest beaches and is close to Unawatuna’s famed tourist resort, yet Koggala is relatively uncrowded as a tourist destination and is generally unknown. Koggala Beach, one of Sri Lanka’s numerous beaches, has become a famous tourist destination due to the breathtaking view of its coastline. It’s not only a great location to relax and unwind while listening to the waves kiss the beach every few seconds, but it’s also a great place to get some surf lessons and have a leisurely stroll, making it one of the best locations to visit in Koggala.

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

In contrast to many other Asian countries, Sri Lanka can legitimately claim to be a year-round vacation destination. Between May and September, the south-western monsoon sends rain to the south-west of Sri Lanka, whereas the dry season lasts from December to March. The weather along the country’s north and east coasts are affected by the north-eastern monsoon, which delivers wind and rain between October and January and drier weather between May and September. During October and the first part of November, there is also an inter-monsoonal period when rain and thunderstorms might occur around the island. This clears up as December approaches, with temperatures rising by the day throughout the second part of November. The period from December to mid-April, like with many South-East Asian locations, is considered the peak season for general weather and hence overall tourist numbers. While there are valid reasons for this, there are also advantages to travelling outside of this time period, with the shoulder season frequently bringing the best of both worlds. 

Also read: The Do’s and Don’ts guide for your Sri Lanka vacation

Things to do in Koggala Beach

1. Surfing
2. Handunugoda Tea Estate
3. Diving and Snorkelling
4. Wickramasinghe Folk Art Museum

1. Surfing

Koggala Beach is a prominent surfing destination in Sri Lanka. The best place to surf here would be between Ahangama and Midigama. The beach here has a few brief but strong beach breaks to the right. Because of the powerful undercurrents in the ocean and the medium cross-onshore conditions, this place is best suited for advanced and experienced surfers. The wave break’s quality is normal and frequent. While surfing here, it is possible to see sea turtles or even white sea sharks.

2. Handunugoda Tea Estate

Handunugoda Tea Estate, a family-owned plantation in the country’s southern half, provides the famed ‘Herman Teas from Ceylon’ range of teas. The farm is well-known for producing premium teas from entire tea leaves. The plantation provides excursions through its lush green fields, allowing tourists to get a close look at tea growing. On request, they may also organize tours in SUV sedans. To add to the enjoyment, you may take a tour of the plantation on the back of their tamed horse named Attorney.

3. Diving and Snorkelling

Koggala Beach’s beautiful, clear waters make it one of the greatest and most sought-after snorkelling locations in all of Sri Lanka. The easy and fun water activity provides a peek of the country’s magnificent marine biodiversity. The coral gardens, sea turtles, and colourful fish provide a spectacular underwater picture to witness. There are several snorkelling schools along the area of Koggala Beach.

4. Wickramasinghe Folk Art Museum

Following the death of famed Sri Lankan writer Martin Wickramsinghe, the author’s residence was transformed into a public museum. The museum, which is well built, provides an insight into Sri Lankan traditional culture and history. It exhibits a variety of historical items, ranging from Buddhist artefacts to those chronicling the country’s agricultural and other local businesses’ growth and development. The home is surrounded by a beautiful, groomed garden with a variety of indigenous trees and bushes teeming with birdlife.

Places to visit near Koggala beach

1. Mirissa
2. Beach of Bonavista
3. Hikkaduwa

Also read: Top Places To Visit In Koggala During Your Sri Lanka Vacation

1. Mirissa

Mirissa beach is another excellent snorkelling location in Colombo. This one-of-a-kind beach has traditionally been one of the first to see whale sightings. The pricing is, however, a little on the high side. Nonetheless, it turned out that this particular place was an excellent diving destination. There are around 5 diving places at Mirissa beach that are suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. PADI preparatory classes are available for beginners, and there are also travel centres. The rest of the material may be found on the internet or in neighbouring local travel companies.

2. Beach of Bonavista

This beach is a hidden treasure trove in Sri Lanka that travellers may find on their own without the assistance of a guide. The beach is pleasant, and it provides a variety of local foods as well as superb lodging. Many of the local lures are close to this beach, so getting there from a hotel shouldn’t take long.

3. Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is a national cultural beach centre and one of the top sites to visit in Koggala. It is located in the city of Colombo, which is promising since snorkelers will soar across the motorway before embarking on an underwater excursion through diving. Any day of the week, one may pay a visit to the south coast town and experience the beverages and fish from the mouth. And one can just appreciate the light from the campfire. Travelling to Hikkaduwa for snorkelling is an experience that should be cherished and valued. This location is ideal for both experienced snorkelers and those who are new to diving and have learned the basics from expert instructors who are still available throughout the season.

Plan your trip with Pickyourtrail

Pickyourtrail, a reputable travel service, can help you plan your trip to Sri Lanka. Explore the Sri Lanka Tour packages or create your own with the help of qualified Sri Lanka Guides. To learn more, visit Pickyourtrail