A crescent-shaped bay of golden sand fringed by coconut palms, Mirissa is one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved beach destinations on the southern coast. It serves as the island’s premier whale watching hub, with blue whales and sperm whales regularly sighted in the waters offshore between November and April. The beach itself is a haven for swimming, surfing and socialising, with a charming collection of cafes, seafood restaurants and beach bars lining the shore.