Sri Lanka’s Southern coast offers travelers an array of opportunities with its perfect beaches, crumbling colonial Forts steeped in history, emerald green tea plantations, white wattle and daub Buddhist temples and interior lakes, lagoons and tropical jungles. Choose from diving the rich underwater landscapes and ship wrecks to deep sea fishing. Experience the wonders of observing the majestic whales and playful dolphins that migrate to the Southern coast during the season. Whale watching excursions leave from Mirissa harbour which is 20 minutes from Iyla.
Try your hand at surfing either in Ahangama or Weligama. Ahangama beach is walking distance from Iyla and offers gentle curls and soft sand perfect for beginners. There are several surfing schools offering lessons and board rental.
Cycling tours through the villages and into the interiors offer the opportunity to view rice fields, rubber plantations, mangroves and lakes and encounter village life. Take a boat or kayak out on nearby Koggala Lake, its tranquil lagoon edged by fragrant cinnamon gardens and tropical wildlife. Alternatively visit a tea plantation and hike through the rich tea gardens. A fresh way to experience Ceylon tea!
A visit to the Galle Fort is a must. This UNESCO world heritage site transports you back in time to the Dutch Colonial period. Walk the narrow, cobblestone streets, peak into the courtyards of the beautiful old homes, shop for gorgeous gems including the stunning deep blue Ceylon Sapphire in the jewellery boutiques, and sip a tea or a cheeky gin and tonic while watching the sunset over the ramparts. The diverse population of artists, artisans and designers living in Galle have made it a hub of creativity and enterprise.
For excursions further afield try a day trip to Uda Walawe or Yala nature reserves to spot leopard, elephant, deer, crocodiles and sloth bears. Sri Lanka also offers wonderful opportunities for bird watching given the a variety of endemic species as well as migratory birds.