The 11 Best Tours & Experiences In Unawatuna

Unawatuna is a beach lover’s paradise, famous not only for its golden sands but also for the variety of tours and activities that make your trip truly memorable. Whether you’re eager to explore the underwater world with scuba diving or prefer relaxing with sunset cocktails by Angel Beach, this south coast town offers options for every type of traveler. We especially like the Discover Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners for its friendly introduction to underwater exploration, and the Snorkeling in Unawatuna tour, which offers a relaxed way to see vibrant marine life just off the shore.

Unawatuna is a hub for water sports, cultural excursions, and relaxing evenings, making it a versatile base. For those who want a taste of adventure, the Yala National Park Day Trip offers a safari filled with wildlife. For a more laid-back experience, the Oyster Platter with Wine provides a perfect sunset dining option. Whatever your style, Unawatuna’s tours promise a fulfilling experience.

1. Unawatuna: Discover Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners

At number 1 on our list, the Discover Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners is an ideal introduction to underwater life. This 3-hour tour takes place at Sun Diving Sri Lanka, a PADI 5-Star Dive Resort, located right on the beach in Kotapola. You’ll learn the basics of scuba diving in a friendly, professional setting, with a focus on safety and fun. The training happens in a shallow lagoon, making it accessible even if you’ve never gone underwater before.

What makes this experience standout is the chance to explore the Lord Nelson Shipwreck and see over 50 species of tropical reef fish, including stingrays and octopus. The small group size (limited to just 10 participants) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the patient instructors and the clear waters that showcase the marine life beautifully. Keep in mind, basic swimming skills and comfort in water are required, but no prior experience is necessary.

Bottom Line: If you’ve ever wondered what’s beneath the waves but don’t want to commit to full certification, this beginner-friendly tour offers a safe, fun, and memorable intro.

2. Snorkeling in Unawatuna

For a relaxed, scenic encounter with marine life, the Snorkeling in Unawatuna tour is hard to beat. Costing around $49 per person, it lasts about 2 hours and takes you to some of the best shallow snorkeling spots along Unawatuna Beach and Jungle Beach. This tour suits travelers who want a hassle-free way to see colorful fish, octopus, and other marine creatures without getting fully submerged in diving gear.

The trip includes a short boat ride from the shore, and reviews highlight how kind and attentive the skippers are, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outing. With multiple sites visited, visitors often remark on the variety of fish and the ease of snorkeling even for novices. It’s a good choice for families or those with limited water experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, scenic trip that highlights Sri Lanka’s underwater beauty in an accessible way.

3. Unawatuna The Angel Beach: Sunset & Cocktails Experience

Number 3 on our list is a more relaxed experience — the Sunset & Cocktails at Angel Beach offers a chance to unwind while watching the sun dip into the Indian Ocean. For about $89 per person, you’ll enjoy a selection of tapas and drinks, including signature cocktails and local beers, all while soaking in the stunning sunset views.

This experience also grants you free access to the pool, so you can take a dip before or after enjoying your drink. The atmosphere is casual, perfect for couples or friends wanting a memorable evening without the crowds. Angel Beach is famous for its sunset hours, and this tour captures that magic beautifully.

Bottom Line: A laid-back, scenic way to end the day, ideal for those seeking a peaceful evening with good drinks and spectacular views.

4. Colombo: Galle, Unawatuna, and Madu River Day Trip

The Galle, Unawatuna, and Madu River Day Trip packs a full day of sightseeing into just 9 hours. Starting from Colombo, this tour includes a scenic coastal train ride, a visit to the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, and a tranquil Madu River mangrove safari. It’s a great way to see some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights in one day.

Highlights include exploring Galle’s historic ramparts, spotting turtles at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, and cruising the peaceful river among mangroves. The comfortable private transport and hotel pickup make it convenient, while the well-paced itinerary minimizes rushing. Reviews note the tour’s extensive scope and the opportunity to see diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip with cultural, wildlife, and scenic highlights.

5. Unawatuna: Fun Dive with Gear and Guide for Certified Divers

Number 5 is perfect for certified divers eager to explore Unawatuna’s underwater sites. With a 1-hour duration, this tour offers access to up to 16 dive sites, including rocky reefs and shipwrecks, from the coast. The tour includes all gear and a guide, making it a straightforward way to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich marine biodiversity.

What sets this apart is the variety of dive sites available, tailored to conditions and experience levels. Divers have praised the opportunity to see diverse sea creatures in clear waters after a short boat trip to Rock Island or reef areas. It’s best suited for certified divers looking for a quick but rewarding underwater experience.

Bottom Line: An ideal option for certified divers who want flexible, guided access to some of Unawatuna’s best dive sites.

6. Unawatuna: Rock Island Snorkeling Tour with Equipment

At number 6, the Rock Island Snorkeling Tour offers an easy half-day outing. You’ll hop on a boat from Kotapola and explore rocky reefs teeming with tropical fish, octopus, and other marine life. The tour includes gear, so no need to bring your own, and the trip lasts about 1.5 hours.

This tour is highly valued for its relaxed pace and the chance to explore Rock Island, which is known for its vibrant underwater ecosystem. Reviewers mention the friendly staff and the convenience of gear provided. It’s perfect for those who want a shorter, less intense snorkeling experience but still want to see plenty.

Bottom Line: A straightforward, fun snorkel trip suitable for all ages and experience levels.

7. Unawatuna: The Angel Beach Dip&Dine and Cocktails Experience

Number 7 offers a luxurious way to spend an afternoon — the Dip&Dine at Angel Beach combines beach relaxation with fine dining. Over about 5 hours, you can lounge by the pool, enjoy a delicious 3-course meal, and sip cocktails or local beers while the ocean breeze cools you.

Guests love the laid-back vibe and the chance to unwind without leaving the beach. The highlight is the relaxing atmosphere with good food and drinks, making it ideal for couples or friends wanting a peaceful day.

Bottom Line: A perfect indulgence for relaxing and enjoying Unawatuna’s beachside charm in style.

8. Yala National Park: Day Trip From Riu Hotel Ahungalla

Number 8 is a full-day adventure — the Yala National Park Day Trip offers a safari tour from the Riu Hotel in Ahungalla. It includes private transportation, a 3-hour jeep safari, and the chance to see leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and more.

The tour is a good pick for wildlife lovers and those wanting an active, outdoor experience. The park’s varied habitats mean spotting a range of animals, and reviews highlight the exciting wildlife encounters. Note that this is a long day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with early starts and outdoor activity.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for nature enthusiasts eager to see Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife in their natural habitat.

9. Oyster Platter With Wine By Unawatuna Beach

Number 9 combines gastronomy with scenery — the Oyster Platter with Wine is a 3-hour experience perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Starting at Kingfisher Hotel, you’ll savor fresh oysters paired with a house wine while enjoying the ocean views.

Guests praise the freshness of the oysters and the relaxing beachfront setting, often mentioning how this is an ideal way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. Live music on certain days adds to the ambiance. It’s a good pick for foodies or couples celebrating a special occasion.

Bottom Line: A delectable, scenic dining experience that combines fresh seafood with a laid-back vibe.

10. Surfing in Unawatuna

Number 10 is suitable for those who want to catch waves — the Surfing in Unawatuna tour offers 2 hours on the water, with lessons and guidance available. The beach is known for its good surf conditions and welcoming atmosphere.

While reviews focus on the fun of riding waves, it’s best suited for beginners and intermediate surfers. The tour is convenient for travelers staying in Unawatuna and is a great way to combine physical activity with sightseeing.

Bottom Line: For surf enthusiasts or beginners eager to try their hand at wave riding, this is a fun, accessible option.

11. Scuba Diving in Unawatuna

Finally, for those ready to explore deeper, Scuba Diving in Unawatuna offers 3 hours of guided diving at multiple sites, including reef and wreck dives. With dive sites suited for various experience levels, it’s ideal for certified divers eager to see marine creatures that range from tiny to massive, including blue whales.

Many reviewers highlight the excellent visibility and the variety of sites available. The tour provides all gear and a knowledgeable guide, making it a practical choice for experienced divers seeking a reliable, quality dive.

Bottom Line: An excellent option for certified divers wanting to explore Unawatuna’s underwater world in a guided, organized manner.

How to Choose the Right Tour

Choosing the best experience depends on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. For a gentle introduction to underwater life, Discover Scuba or Snorkeling are perfect. If you want to relax, Sunset Cocktails or Oyster Platter fit the bill. For active travelers interested in wildlife, Yala Safari offers a full-day adventure, while certified divers will enjoy Scuba diving.

Consider your budget, physical activity preferences, and time constraints. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

Unawatuna offers a diverse array of tours that cater to nearly every interest — from underwater adventures and wildlife safaris to relaxing dinners and sunset drinks. For travelers seeking a gentle intro to marine life, the Discover Scuba is a standout, while the Yala Safari is perfect for wildlife lovers. Those wanting a peaceful evening can’t go wrong with the Sunset Cocktails.

No matter your style, Unawatuna’s tours promise memorable moments. Planning ahead and booking early will help you make the most of your time on Sri Lanka’s south coast.