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Jungle Beach · Rumassala

Hotel near Jungle Beach – Rumassala & the Japanese Peace Pagoda, Unawatuna

Where we are

Is Elaya Resort close to Jungle Beach?

Yes. Elaya Resort sits on Yaddehimulla Road above Unawatuna Bay, about 0.8 km in a straight line from Jungle Beach. You can walk along Unawatuna Beach and over the Rumassala headland on a forest path, or take our complimentary buggy to Jungle Beach. Unawatuna Beach is around five minutes away by buggy.

Jungle Beach is a small, sheltered cove on the far side of the Rumassala headland, between Unawatuna and Galle harbour. It is popular for swimming and snorkelling and is usually quieter than the main beach. Facilities at the cove are limited, so bring water, sun protection and shoes suitable for a rocky trail.

Elaya Resort is a 28-room boutique hillside hotel at 22/20 Yaddehimulla, Unawatuna 80600. From the resort you can spend the morning at Jungle Beach and be back for lunch with an ocean view, a swim in the pool or an afternoon in your room.

Rumassala

What is there to see on Rumassala?

Rumassala is the forested headland between Unawatuna Bay and Galle harbour. It is home to the white Japanese Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa on the hill above Jungle Beach, and to walking paths through the forest that lead down to the cove. Mornings are usually cooler for walking.

The Japanese Peace Pagoda is a white Buddhist stupa on the Rumassala hillside. It is a calm place to visit, with views over the ocean; as at any Buddhist site in Sri Lanka, dress modestly and remove your shoes where asked.

Rumassala is also linked in local legend to the Ramayana. Our team is happy to explain the routes and can help with transport if you would rather not walk.

Aerial view of Elaya Resort on the hillside above Unawatuna Bay
Ocean days

Snorkelling, diving and the bay

Our team arranges snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing lessons and sunset cruises with experienced local guides, as well as whale watching voyages. Sea conditions vary through the year, so ask our team about timing for your dates.

Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from the resort, so it is easy to combine a beach morning with an afternoon on the ramparts.

Your base

Rooms with a view of the bay

Elaya has 28 rooms and suites across seven categories, from Superior Ocean View rooms to a Deluxe Premier With Plunge Pool and the Penthouse Suite with a private Jacuzzi. Many rooms look straight out over the Indian Ocean.

After a day at the beach, dine at The Surf by Elaya, our ocean-view restaurant serving contemporary Sri Lankan cuisine and fresh local seafood from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, or stop at Lavazza Cafe for coffee and pastries.

The Surf by Elaya ocean-view restaurant at Elaya Resort Unawatuna

Good to know

Questions
guests ask

Quick answers to help you plan. For anything else, our team replies on WhatsApp.

Have something else in mind?

Talk to our team
How do I get from Elaya Resort to Jungle Beach?

Our complimentary buggy can take you to Jungle Beach. You can also walk along Unawatuna Beach and over the Rumassala headland on a forest path; our team can explain the route.

Getting around
Is Jungle Beach good for snorkelling?

Jungle Beach is a small, sheltered cove that is popular for snorkelling. Sea conditions vary, so check locally on the day, and bring water and sun protection as there are few facilities.

Ocean adventures
Can I visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda from the resort?

Yes. The Peace Pagoda stands on the Rumassala hill above Jungle Beach and makes an easy half-day outing from Elaya. Please dress modestly, as at any Buddhist site.

Unawatuna guide
How far is Galle Fort from Elaya Resort?

Galle Fort is 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from Elaya Resort in Unawatuna.

Plan your trip
How do I book directly?

Call or WhatsApp +94 77 277 2943, or email info@elayaresortunawatuna.com, with your travel dates, number of guests and preferred room. Our reservations team will confirm availability and rates for your dates.

Plan your stay

Stay between the beaches

Tell us your dates and we will help you plan your days on Unawatuna Bay, Jungle Beach and Rumassala.