Marakolliya

Marakolliya is one of Sri Lanka's most spectacular and tranquil beach stretches, located just east of Tangalle. Marakolliya Beach is memorable with its extremely wide golden sand strip and dense palm groves. Here, you won't find massive hotel complexes; instead, appealing eco-lodges and guesthouses blend harmoniously with nature. The Indian Ocean surf is often powerful here, making it convenient for long walks but requiring caution for swimming. A major highlight in the immediate vicinity is Rekawa Beach. This beach is world-renowned for sea turtle conservation. At night, under expert guidance, visitors can witness various turtle species nesting in the sand. Behind the coastal strip lies an idyllic lagoon system with mangroves, which can be explored by canoe to spot exotic birds and monitor lizards. The local gastronomy focuses on freshly caught fish and seafood, often served right in the beachside restaurants. Access is typically via Tangalle by tuk-tuk or taxi. Marakolliya is the well-suited sanctuary for independent travelers seeking the authentic beauty of the Sri Lankan south coast away from mass tourism.

Nearby cities

Palatupana

A wild coastal paradise on the edge of Yala National Park, known for its pristine dunes and proximity to exotic wildlife.

Tangalle

A peaceful getaway with pristine coves, mangroves, and deep blue waters, ideal for relaxation away from the crowds.

Dikwella

A relaxed coastal town in southern Sri Lanka, famous for its long sandy beaches and the island's largest seated Buddha statue.

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Suduwella

A hidden gem on the south coast that charms visitors with its pristine beaches and peaceful, village atmosphere.

Haputale

Haputale is spectacularly perched on a mountain ridge, offering breathtaking views of tea plantations and cloud forests.

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Gandara

An authentic fishing village with deep religious roots and pristine coastal stretches away from the main tourist tracks.

Bandarawela

Bandarawela is a quiet highland resort town known for its mild climate, colonial architecture, and tea production.

Knuckles Range

A UNESCO World Heritage site with misty peaks resembling a clenched fist, perfect for trekking.

Dondra

The southernmost point of Sri Lanka, famous for its majestic lighthouse and significant religious history.

Sembuwatta Lake

A paradisiacal man-made lake nestled within tea plantations, famous for its deep blue waters and misty mountain backdrop.

Matara

Matara is a major commercial city on the south coast of Sri Lanka, rich in colonial history and crossed by the Nilwala River.

Badulla

Badulla is situated in a picturesque valley in the Uva Province, surrounded by mist-covered mountains and tea estates.

Maskeliya

A charming town situated by the Maussakelle Reservoir, surrounded by endless tea estates and the gateway to Adam's Peak.

Matale

Matale is an agricultural town nestled in a valley in the center of the island, surrounded by spice gardens.

Walgama

A quiet coastal settlement near Matara, known for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent surfing waves in the Madiha district.

History & landmarks

World's End

A dramatic sheer cliff in Horton Plains National Park offering spectacular views.

Gregory Lake

An artificial lake in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, popular for boating.

Diyaluma Falls

The second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, known for its natural pools at the top.

Kandy Lake

An artificial lake in the center of Kandy city, adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth.

Nine Arches Bridge

A famous colonial-era railway bridge in Ella, surrounded by tea plantations.

Nature

Walawe River

A major river flowing through the south of Sri Lanka, sustaining several national parks and vital irrigation systems.

More places

Lunugamvehera National Park

Established primarily to protect the catchment area of the Lunugamvehera reservoir and to serve as a corridor for elephants.

Bundala National Park

An internationally important wintering ground for migratory water birds in Sri Lanka, famous for large flocks of flamingos.

Yala National Park

Sri Lanka's most famous national park, renowned for its high density of leopards and diverse ecosystems.

Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara

An ancient Buddhist temple built on a massive rock in southern Sri Lanka.

Udawalawe National Park

A prominent national park created to provide a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir.

Samanalawewa Dam

A major hydroelectric power station on the Walawe River, contributing significantly to the national grid.

Kirigalpotta

The second highest mountain in Sri Lanka and the highest one accessible to the general public.

Hakgala Botanical Garden

The second largest botanical garden, located in a cool climate, known for ferns and roses.