Tailor-Made Adventures: Explore the South with Me

01

Rekawa Turtle Watching

The Rekawa Turtle Watch is a heart-warming conservation project dedicated to protecting the sea turtles that nest on our golden shores. Since many turtles choose Rekawa to lay their eggs, this project ensures they stay safe until the hatchlings are ready to head back to the “big blue.”

  • My Tip: It’s a magical night-time adventure that begins with a quick walk across the village roads—just 900m from my gate.

  • Distance: 2.2 km (one way) | Duration: 2 hours

turtles

02

Kayaking in Rekawa Lagoon

Separated from the ocean by only a thin strip of sand, our lagoon is one of the most relaxing spots on the island. It’s a sanctuary of biodiversity, home to eagles, cranes, and the occasional monitor lizard.

  • My Tip: Kayaking here at dawn or sunset is breathtaking. It’s a safe, peaceful adventure perfect for solos, couples, or families.

  • Distance: 1.5 km (one way) | Duration: 2 hours

kayaking

03

In and Around Rekawa

Rekawa is a destination in itself, found blissfully off the beaten path. If you want a slow day, I recommend a cycle trip through the village to see the local way of life or a deep-sea fishing trip if you’re feeling adventurous.

  • Distance: Up to 4 km | Duration: 2 hours

around rekawa

04

Fishing in Rekawa

Experience the Indian Ocean like a local. I can organize a dawn fishing trip for you. I’ll prepare a breakfast pack for you to take on the boat so you can spend your morning out at sea.

  • Distance: 500m (to the boat) | Duration: 2 hours

fishing

05

Mulkirigala Rock Temple

Often called the “Lesser Dambulla,” this ancient site features an impressive series of cave temples with exquisite murals from the Kandyan era. Standing at 107 meters, it’s the tallest rock in the area, surrounded by lush forest.

  • The Challenge: 533 rock-hewn steps will guide you through five terraces of temples to a summit with an incredible view.

  • Distance: 22 km | Duration: 3.5 hours

rock temple

06

Wewurukannala Temple

This temple is home to the island’s largest seated Buddha statue (50 meters high). To reach the top and gaze at the Buddha’s face, you must first navigate the “Tunnel of Hell”—a gallery of life-sized models illustrating the punishments that await those who succumb to earthly temptations.

  • Distance: 25 km | Duration: 3 hours

wewurukannala

07

Hummanaya Blowhole

Witness the power of the ocean at the second-largest blowhole in the world. When the sea is rough, the water pressure builds up and sprays a fountain up to 120 feet into the air!

  • My Tip: I recommend combining this with a visit to Tangalle city to make the most of your trip.

  • Distance: 22 km | Duration: 3 hours

blowhole

08

Surfing at Hiriketiya

Hiriketiya is a horseshoe-shaped bay famous for its “hidden” surf spot. It’s perfect for both beginners and intermediates due to its gentle, low-frequency waves. It’s a great place to learn to ride the waves in a beautiful setting.

  • Distance: 25 km | Duration: 3 hours

sufring

09

Silent Beach & Goyambokka

If you are looking for the most beautiful, quiet beaches in Sri Lanka, these are my favorites. They are wilder and more rocky than commercial beaches—perfect for a peaceful stroll or a sunset drink, though I advise caution when swimming with small children.

  • Distance: 15 km | Duration: 3 hours

silent beach

10

Wildlife Safari to Yala

Yala is Sri Lanka’s most famous national park, and for a good reason. It’s the best place in the world to spot leopards. I will pack your breakfast and arrange a jeep to pick you up before dawn so you can be the first at the gates.

  • Distance: 77 km | Duration: 5 hours

yala

11

Bundala National Park

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a paradise for birdwatchers. Bundala is famous for its flamingos, which migrate here in large flocks. You might also spot elephants, crocodiles, and giant squirrels among the wetlands.

  • Distance: 50 km | Duration: 5 hours

bundala

12

Udawalawe National Park

If you want to see elephants in the wild, Udawalawe is the place. It’s a vast 119-square-mile reserve where herds of elephants roam free. It’s only a 1.5-hour drive from the villa.

  • Distance: 59 km | Duration: 5 hours

udawalawe

13

Mirijjawila Botanical Garden

One of Sri Lanka’s five botanical gardens, this site focuses on tropical plants and medicinal herbs. It’s a peaceful place for a walk. I recommend visiting in the early morning to avoid the mid-day heat.

  • Distance: 30 km | Duration: 3 hours

garden

14

Ridiyagama Safari Park

A unique experience where you travel in protected vehicles through 500 acres of open land. You can see lions, tigers, and elephants roaming freely in zones designed to mimic their natural habitats.

  • Distance: 40 km | Duration: 4 hours

ridiyagama

15

Kalamatiya Bird Sanctuary

One of the oldest and most unspoilt natural locales on the island. With its mangrove swamps and salty lagoons, it’s a must for nature lovers. Bring your binoculars to spot wood-peckers, bee-eaters, and many migratory species.

  • Distance: 14 km | Duration: 3 hours

kalamatiya

16

Galle - The Dutch Fort

Walk through history in this UNESCO-protected fortress city. With its cobbled streets, old churches, and Dutch colonial architecture, Galle is full of charming cafes and souvenir shops. No trip to the South is complete without a walk along the fort walls.

  • Distance: 90 km | Duration: 5 hours

galle

17

Sinharaja Forest Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage site and our last primary tropical rainforest. This is a biodiversity hotspot where you can find waterfalls, exotic birds, and rare butterflies. It is a true treasure of nature.

  • Distance: 80 km | Duration: 7 hours

sinharaya

18

Whale Watching in Mirissa

Join a boat trip for a unique encounter with the majestic Blue Whale. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see these giants swimming in pods. If you’re lucky, you may also see sperm whales and dolphins.

  • Distance: 60 km | Duration: 5 hours

whale
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