Unawatuna is a beach town on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from Galle Fort. It is known for its palm-lined bay and relaxed atmosphere, and is a convenient base for Galle Fort, ocean activities such as snorkelling and diving, whale watching and cultural tours of the south.
Unawatuna is a beach town on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from Galle Fort in the historic city of Galle. It is known for its palm-lined bay and relaxed atmosphere, and makes a good base for exploring the south.
This guide is written by the team at Elaya Resort, a boutique hillside hotel overlooking Unawatuna. Ask us for current advice when you arrive.
Unawatuna is a beach town on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from Galle Fort. It is known for its palm-lined bay and relaxed atmosphere, and is a convenient base for Galle Fort, ocean activities such as snorkelling and diving, whale watching and cultural tours of the south.
Unawatuna is a beach town on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from Galle Fort in the historic city of Galle. It is known for its palm-lined bay and relaxed atmosphere, and makes a good base for exploring the south.
This guide is written by the team at Elaya Resort, a boutique hillside hotel overlooking Unawatuna. Ask us for current advice when you arrive.
Unawatuna Beach is around five minutes from Elaya, and our complimentary buggy takes guests to and from the shore. Snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing lessons and sunset cruises are available year-round with experienced local guides, and our team can arrange them for you.
Our team can also arrange whale watching voyages. Sea conditions and sightings vary through the year, so ask us about timing for your dates.
Unawatuna Beach is around five minutes from Elaya, and our complimentary buggy takes guests to and from the shore. Snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing lessons and sunset cruises are available year-round with experienced local guides, and our team can arrange them for you.
Our team can also arrange whale watching voyages. Sea conditions and sightings vary through the year, so ask us about timing for your dates.
Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from the resort, makes a rewarding day trip: walk the ramparts and browse the boutiques and cafés on its cobbled streets.
Further afield, guided excursions take you to ancient temples, lush tea plantations and authentic local villages. We arrange private and group tours with expert guides.
Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from the resort, makes a rewarding day trip: walk the ramparts and browse the boutiques and cafés on its cobbled streets.
Further afield, guided excursions take you to ancient temples, lush tea plantations and authentic local villages. We arrange private and group tours with expert guides.
Unawatuna is around 2.5 hours by road from Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport. Elaya Resort can arrange private transfers on request. You can also take the scenic coastal railway to Galle station and then a short taxi ride; Galle Fort itself is 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from the resort.
From Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport, Unawatuna is around 2.5 hours by road; private transfers to Elaya can be arranged on request. You can also take the scenic coastal railway to Galle station and a short taxi ride to the resort.
Unawatuna is around 2.5 hours by road from Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport. Elaya Resort can arrange private transfers on request. You can also take the scenic coastal railway to Galle station and then a short taxi ride; Galle Fort itself is 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from the resort.
From Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport, Unawatuna is around 2.5 hours by road; private transfers to Elaya can be arranged on request. You can also take the scenic coastal railway to Galle station and a short taxi ride to the resort.
At Elaya, The Surf by Elaya serves contemporary Sri Lankan cuisine and fresh seafood caught by local fishermen, with ocean views from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Lavazza Cafe serves coffee, pastries and light refreshments from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Our 28 rooms and suites range from Superior Ocean View rooms to plunge pool rooms and the Penthouse Suite with a private Jacuzzi, all with Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service and daily housekeeping.
At Elaya, The Surf by Elaya serves contemporary Sri Lankan cuisine and fresh seafood caught by local fishermen, with ocean views from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Lavazza Cafe serves coffee, pastries and light refreshments from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Our 28 rooms and suites range from Superior Ocean View rooms to plunge pool rooms and the Penthouse Suite with a private Jacuzzi, all with Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service and daily housekeeping.
Good to know
Quick answers to help you plan. For anything else, our team replies on WhatsApp.
Have something else in mind?
Talk to our teamGalle Fort is 7.3 km, about 20–25 minutes by car, from Elaya Resort in Unawatuna.
Galle Fort toursThe drive takes around 2.5 hours, and private transfers to Elaya are available on request. Alternatively, take the coastal train to Galle station and a short taxi to the resort.
Getting hereEnjoy the beach, snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing lessons, sunset cruises and whale watching, or take cultural tours of Galle Fort, temples, tea plantations and local villages.
ExperiencesAround five minutes. Our complimentary buggy service takes guests between the resort and the beach.
About ElayaCall 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 stayTell us your dates and interests and our concierge team will help you plan your days on the southern coast.
Tell us your dates and interests and our concierge team will help you plan your days on the southern coast.
Book Your Stay