Crack open a coconut, slip into a hammock and rock gently in the breeze, allowing the hours, days and even weeks to slip calmly by. Welcome to Mirissa, a
stunning crescent beach. Modest guesthouses abound and there’s a string of
simple restaurants at the back of the sand. Paradise is compromised slightly by an erosion problem on the east side of
Mirissa, which is partly due to a government-built breakwater and partly due to
sand-encroaching construction. In recent years Mirissa has developed a reputation as a party destination for
young travellers, and in high season DJs spin pumping tunes till late several
nights a week. If you’re looking for solitude and zen-like calm, this may not be
the beach for you.

• Mirissa Beach

Avision of tropical bliss, Mirissa Beach boasts powdery pale sand, while its azure
water is framed by an arc of coconut palms. The west side is the nicest and has
the broadest expanse of sand; as the bay curves gently around to the east it
meets up with the roar of the Galle-Matara Rd. Close to the centre of Mirissa bay
is a much-photographed sandbar that connects to a tiny island that you can walk
to at low tide. The western end also has a reasonable right point break for
surfers. The far eastern section of the beach has been lost to coastal erosion and is lined
with unsightly concrete sea defences. There’s also very little shade on the beach
thanks to much of the original fringe of palm trees being chopped down to make
way for beachfront cafes and hundreds of sun loungers. Nearby hotels and restaurants
Numerous places set up tables and chairs right up to the tide line day and night. Wander and compare which one has the freshest seafood. All are good for a beer;
some also serve espresso coffee. You’ll find a thicket of good-value guesthouses and modest beach hotels at the
west end of Mirissa. Options include Poppies and Surf Sea Breeze, among numerous others. Beware of road noise at the east end of the beach and
loud and late music near the beach cafes.