Golden Shores — South Coast

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport. Private transfer south to Bentota (approximately 2 hours). Check in and take your first walk on the beach as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.

Morning on the calm Bentota River lagoon — kayaking, mangrove boat safari through the Madu River ecosystem, and a visit to a cinnamon island. Afternoon relaxing on the ocean beach.

Short drive to Hikkaduwa for a morning of snorkelling at the coral reef sanctuary. Four species of sea turtle feed here year-round — encounters are almost guaranteed. Afternoon at leisure on the beach.

Transfer to Galle. A guided walk through the UNESCO Fort takes in the Dutch Governor's mansion, the lighthouse, ocean-view ramparts, boutique galleries, and the island's finest café scene.

A free day to explore independently — browse gem merchants, visit the Maritime Museum, find the rooftop bar with the longest ocean view, or simply sit on the ramparts and watch the fishing boats.

Transfer to Weligama. Morning surf lesson on the gentle shorebreak — instructors have taught hundreds of first-timers here. Afternoon tuk-tuk to Koggala to photograph Sri Lanka's iconic stilt fishermen.

Pre-dawn transfer to Mirissa Harbour for the sunrise whale-watching boat. Blue whales — the largest animals on earth — are regularly sighted here from November to April, along with spinner dolphins and sperm whales.

A day at Mirissa Beach. Optional afternoon snorkelling trip to the offshore reef. Fresh seafood at the beach restaurants as the sun sets over Parrot Rock.

Final full day of beach relaxation. Optional cooking class, visit to a local spice garden, or tuk-tuk exploration of nearby coastal villages. Farewell seafood dinner.

Morning transfer from Mirissa to Bandaranaike International Airport (approximately 2.5 hours). Farewell to the south coast.