The Southern Coast’s Guide On Fun Date Ideas
Planning a fun date can get quite time consuming, especially if you’re in a new country. Sri Lanka is undoubtedly one of the most romantic places in the world, and nowhere is this more apparent than on its southern coast. The beautiful palm-fringed golden beaches of the south offer a myriad of activities which combine adventure, romance and a ‘chilled’ beach vibe. If you’re looking for a fun, slightly unconventional date, here are some ideas.
Learn To Surf in Weligama
Sri Lanka has quickly become one of the world’s best surfing destinations, so surfing is a must when you’re down south. The season for surfing on the south coast is from October to March, this is when the sea is at its calmest and the weather is sunny! If you and your partner have never gone surfing before, then learning to surf would be a fun date; there are numerous surf schools dotted along the beach of Weligama that will teach the two of you the surfing basics and by the end of it you’ll be a pro!
Dolphin & Whale Watching in Mirissa
The calm waters from October to March attract migratory whales and dolphins to the warm blue waters of Sri Lanka. The best place for whale watching on the south coast is Mirissa and there are many tour operators that offer this service. You generally embark on your ocean adventure at around 6 am for the best chance of spotting one of these incredible creatures. To make your whale watching excursion even more romantic organise a private boat just for you and your loved one for a more intimate experience.
River Safari in Bentota
Apart from wonderful beaches, if you delve further inland you will find some of the most fantastic mangroves. Mangroves are well-known biodiversity hotspots, just a short drive inland from places like Balapitiya and Bentota you will find large brackish lakes which are surrounded by lush, thick mangrove forests. These forests are not only great places for bird watching but on your boat safari, there is a good chance you will also see monitor lizards and crocodiles! A boat ride just before sunset will create a beautiful, romantic date.
Beach Hopping
Beach lovers will love that you planned a whole day of beach hopping as your date. There are many wonderful beaches along the south coast and while for the most part, they may look similar, but each has its own personality. If you’re looking for a more party vibe, then check out Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa. For surfers, drop by Midigama beach which is a surfing commune; and if you’re looking to get away from it all, visit Tangalle. Either way, there will definitely be something to suit you and your date’s preferences!
Visit Galle Fort
Galle Fort is undeniably one of Sri Lanka’s best-known sites. Built by the Portuguese in 1588, the fort was later taken over and fortified by the Dutch in 1649. The fort has weathered many storms and long outlived its founders’ stay on the island. Today, it is a time capsule of the colonial era with almost all of the original architecture still standing. There are many quaint restaurants and hotels which have been renovated with a modern touch within a colonial setting. While you’re there, there are a bunch of fun things to do in and around Galle, watching the sun set from the ramparts is the most romantic way to end the night.
Wander Through Geoffrey Bawa’s Estate
This is a great date idea for a couple that is interested in architecture, interior design or a little bit of contemporary Sri Lankan history. Geoffrey Bawa is Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect who virtually coined the term Tropical Modernism. Bawa’s estate, Lunu Ganaga, is nestled in Bentota along the banks of the Dedduwa Lake and his house is surrounded by luscious green vegetation. Enjoy a slow stroll along these gardens with your partner.
Backpacking across the island? Read our guide for couples first!
