Mirissa

Palm-fringed beaches and the island's whale capital.

What makes Mirissa.

Mirissa is the south coast's beach-and-whales hub — a relaxed crescent of sand backed by palms, with the famous Coconut Tree Hill on one headland and a row of beachfront restaurants that fill at sunset. The swimming is good and the nightlife mellow, with the tiny Parrot Rock islet sitting just off the main beach. From November to April, Mirissa is the country's premier launch point for blue whale and sperm whale watching, with the deep water of the continental shelf unusually close offshore. Responsible operators run calm-morning departures to find the largest animal that has ever lived, often alongside dolphins and turtles.

Palm-fringed beaches and the island's whale capital.

November – April (south-west dry season; whales Dec–Apr)Best time
6Spots to see
~450KVisitors / year

What to see

Where to explore in Mirissa.

The landmarks and corners worth carving out time for. Each one a reason this place earns its place on the route.

01
Blue whale watching
Morning boats to the offshore shelf where blue and sperm whales feed in season.
02
Coconut Tree Hill
The photogenic palm-crowned headland at the eastern end of the beach.
03
Mirissa Beach
A broad swimmable bay lined with sunset seafood restaurants and bars.
04
Parrot Rock
A small islet just off the beach you can wade and scramble to for a sunset view.
05
Secret Beach
A hidden, sheltered cove west of town reached down a quiet lane, calmer for swimming.
06
Snake Island viewpoint
A rocky headland off Mirissa with a clifftop path and views back along the coast.