What To Do In Mirissa With Your Family
Mirissa and its honey-golden shores are all about fun, sun and adventure! Located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, it’s perfect for an exciting family vacation, whether you’re travelling with toddlers or teenagers; you’re bound to find something to keep the entire brood happy and entertained. Here are some of the things you can do in Mirissa with your family.
Parrot Rock
Parrot Rock is a small islet just offshore from Mirissa beach. Wondering how to get there? Cross over! Grab your little ones’ hands though, as the currents and waves tend to get a tad bit too playful as you try to cross over to Parrot Rock. Once you’ve safely made it to the other side, climb up a narrow, natural path and prepare for a jaw-dropping view of the Mirissa coast! Just be careful not to go near the edge. Additionally, the waters around Parrot Rock are an incredible snorkelling site. Surrounded by small rocks which are covered with coral, this small reef is home to a rainbow of marine life, and snorkelling along the azure waters is the only way to admire it!
Whale Watching
If your kids’ excitement levels shot up after snorkelling around Parrot Rock, there’s no doubt that they’ll be eager to see more marine life! A whale-watching excursion is sure to have them (and you as well) jumping in glee! Mirissa is the premier whale watching location in Sri Lanka. Spinner dolphins, blue whales and sperm whales frequent the waters here, as well as the occasional killer whale. The season for whale watching is from November – April, as this is when the sea is at its calmest and the warm waters are ideal for the gentle beasts of the sea (almost the same reason that brought you to sunny Mirissa!) If you need help planning your excursion, there are quite a few to choose from, or your hotel will be delighted to organise one for you too. Here are 5 things you should know before your whale watching trip with the kids!
Surfing
One of the best things about Sri Lanka is that you can never really miss the surfing season, as the monsoon cycle moves from coast to coast throughout the year, so if you miss the surfing season in Arugam Bay you will still make it in time for Mirissa which is from November – April. If you and your family don’t have any surfing experience don’t worry, there are surf schools dotted all along the coast. Equally, if you and your family are more experienced, you can just rent boards from these centres as well. There are a few surf breaks that cater to all levels of skills. One thing is certain though: the whole family will enjoy it.
Coconut Tree Hill
A short trek away, the picturesque Coconut Tree Hill is where the most iconic Instagrammed picture for Mirissa is taken at. Hop in a tuk-tuk and ask the driver to take you to the Coconut Tree Hill, from there, it’s short ascent before you reach the dramatic viewpoint, on the dome-shaped coconut tree hill. The place is essentially a small rocky cliff that overlooks the ocean and is surrounded by towering trees. Grab a picnic and watch the sunset here after a long day of fun and excitement; a favourite way to end the day for everyone.
