What to Do in Beruwala: Top Things to See & Do

Beruwala is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest coastal towns, quietly positioned along the island’s southwestern shoreline. While many travelers rush toward more famous beach destinations, Beruwala offers something different—an unhurried seaside atmosphere shaped by history, religion, and everyday local life.

If you are planning to visit Sri Lanka and prefer a destination that blends beach relaxation with cultural depth, Beruwala deserves careful consideration.

Beruwala lighthouse

Where Is Beruwala Located?

Beruwala lies in Kalutara District, approximately 60 kilometers south of Colombo. Travel time ranges from 1 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and whether the Southern Expressway is used. It lies along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coastline, near the transition between the island’s western and southern coastal regions, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the southern beaches.

The town is easily accessible by:

• Road via the Southern Expressway
• Coastal railway line from Colombo
• Private transfers from Bandaranaike International Airport

Its convenient location makes Beruwala suitable for short stays or as part of a longer coastal itinerary.

Why Visit Beruwala?

Beruwala stands out for its historical significance, quiet beaches, and multicultural heritage. Unlike resort-heavy towns, it maintains a strong local character while still offering comfortable accommodation and services for visitors.

Travelers visit Beruwala to:

• Enjoy peaceful beaches without large crowds
• Explore Islamic and Buddhist heritage sites
• Experience traditional coastal life
• Use it as a base to explore nearby attractions

It's a fantastic base for unwinding after cultural tours in Kandy or wildlife safaris further south.
Best time to visit Beruwala — The dry season from December to April brings sunny skies, warm temperatures (around 28–32°C), and minimal rain—perfect for beach time and outdoor exploration. January to March is especially pleasant with lower humidity. Avoid the southwest monsoon (May–September) if you prioritize beach activities.

What to Do in Beruwala - Top Things to Experience

Relax on Beruwala Beach

Beruwala Beach is known for its long stretches of golden sand and relatively calm waters, especially during the dry season. The beach is well-suited for:

• Swimming
• Walking at sunrise or sunset
• Casual beach dining

Unlike party-oriented beaches, Beruwala offers a relaxed atmosphere that appeals to families, couples, and travelers seeking tranquility.

A sunset at Beruwala Beach

Visit the Ketchimalai Mosque

One of Beruwala’s most important landmarks is the Ketchimalai Mosque, believed to be one of the oldest mosques in Sri Lanka. Located near the coastline, it reflects the town’s early connection to Arab traders who arrived centuries ago.

Visitors are welcome outside prayer times, and modest dress is required. The site offers valuable insight into the Islamic heritage that continues to shape Beruwala’s identity today.

Take a Boat Trip on the Bentota River

Just a short distance from Beruwala, the Bentota River provides an excellent opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s coastal ecosystems.

Boat safaris often include:

• Mangrove forests
• Monitor lizards and crocodiles
• Birdlife such as kingfishers and herons

These river trips balance relaxation with nature exploration and are suitable for most age groups.

Explore Barberyn Island Lighthouse

A short boat ride from Beruwala Beach takes visitors to Barberyn Island, home to Sri Lanka’s oldest lighthouse. Access to the lighthouse and climbing to the top may depend on weather conditions and local regulations. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding coastline.

This visit combines:

• Scenic photography
• Light adventure
• Maritime history

The island remains lightly visited, adding to its appeal.

Experience Local Markets and Cuisine

Beruwala’s markets reflect the town’s multicultural makeup, with strong influences from Muslim, Sinhalese, and Tamil communities.

What to look for:

• Fresh seafood
• Spices and dried fish
• Local sweets and street snacks

Trying home-style rice and curry or seafood dishes prepared with traditional spices is an essential part of visiting Beruwala.

The unique culture of Beruwala offers visitors memorable experiences of this region

A Practical Traveler's Guide to Beruwala

Beruwala Weather

Beruwala has a tropical coastal climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. Daytime temperatures typically range from 27°C to 31°C (80–88°F), with high humidity influenced by the Indian Ocean.

The town experiences two main weather patterns:
Dryer months with calm seas and plenty of sunshine
Monsoon months are marked by heavier rain and rougher ocean conditions
Rainfall usually occurs in short bursts rather than all-day rain, but sea conditions vary significantly depending on the season.

Best Time to Visit Beruwala

Peak Season: November to April
This is the most popular time to visit Beruwala, offering:

• Minimal rainfall
• Calm seas are ideal for swimming
• Around 8–9 hours of sunshine daily
• December to March is the busiest period, with higher hotel rates, especially during Christmas and New Year.

Shoulder Season: October & Early May
A good balance between weather and cost:

• Occasional, brief rain showers
• Fewer visitors
• Accommodation prices are about 20–30% lower than peak season
• Beach activities are still generally possible.

Monsoon Season: May to September
During the southwest monsoon:

• Regular rainfall, often in the afternoons
• Rough seas make swimming unsafe at times
• Lowest accommodation prices (up to 40–50% off)
• Lush green landscapes and fewer tourists
• Some beachfront hotels may close between August and September, so advance checks are recommended.

How to Get to Beruwala

From Colombo Airport (CMB) - About 55–60 km south.
Private taxi/transfer — Fastest and most comfortable (1–1.5 hours, ~$40–60). Pre-book for meet-and-greet.
Bus — Affordable from the airport to Colombo, then a southbound bus (total 2–3 hours).
Train — Scenic but less direct—train to Aluthgama station (nearby), then tuk-tuk.

From Colombo City — Take the A2 Galle Road by bus, train, or taxi (1–2 hours).

Pro tip — Hire a driver for the day if exploring multiple spots—roads are good, but traffic can be heavy.

Getting Around Beruwala

Tuk-tuks are the primary transport within Beruwala and to nearby areas
Walking: Beruwala beach road allows pleasant walking between nearby hotels and restaurants. Walking from the lighthouse to the southern hotels takes 30-40 minutes along the beach or main road.
Bicycle Rental: Some hotels and guesthouses rent bicycles ($3-5/day). The flat coastal road makes cycling feasible, though traffic can be heavy and chaotic.
Taxi: Available through hotels or by calling local services. More expensive than tuk-tuks but more comfortable, especially for longer journeys or groups.

Sitting Buddha Statue in Kande Viharaya Temple

Day Trips from Beruwala

Beruwala’s location makes it a convenient base for nearby attractions:
Bentota – Water sports and river safaris
Kalutara – Kalutara Bodhiya and coastal views
Kosgoda – Turtle conservation centers
Brief Garden – Landscape design and art

These destinations are easily reached within one hour by road.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Beruwala beach safe for swimming?
Yes, Certain sections of Beruwala Beach, including parts of the so-called ‘Golden Mile,’ are generally calmer due to reefs and shallow waters. However, sea conditions can change, so travelers should always follow local safety flags and advice.

Can I visit Beruwala as a day trip from Colombo?
Absolutely. Thanks to the Southern Expressway, it’s an easy 2-hour drive, making it a perfect day-long beach getaway.

What are advice for the Beruwala trip?
Safety: Swimming is safe, but watch for strong waves in certain areas.
Book accommodation close to the beach for convenience
Transport: Use tuk-tuks or private drivers for short distances
Respect local customs, especially during religious events. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
Activities: Combine beach relaxation with cultural tours and Ayurveda treatments.
Nearby Destinations: Bentota and Kalutara are close by for day trips.

Conclusion

Beruwala may not compete with Sri Lanka’s most famous beach towns in terms of nightlife or large resorts, but it offers something more lasting—authenticity, cultural richness, and a peaceful coastal rhythm.

For travelers who value meaningful experiences over crowds, visiting Beruwala in Sri Lanka provides a rewarding and memorable journey.