Sri Lanka or known in ancient times as the pearl of the Indian Ocean is an island blessed by Mother Nature with impeccable weather and unique natural habitat. Bordered by a few thousand miles of beautiful sandy beaches fringed with mangroves and coconut palms, this paradise is the perfect hideout for tourists looking for the perfect tan and a dip in the sea. From Colombo to Galle one may take the A2 route or better known as Galle road and then continue onto Hambantota. This route hugs the coastline from beginning to end with a large percentage of hotels scattered along the way.

Of the down south beaches, Bentota, a mere 2 km from Colombo boasts a complex of luxury hotels and a rendezvous between sea and river, is a favourite among tourists for its relaxed atmosphere, water sports and also the bit of local culture at the open air theatre; showing mask and folk dancing overlooked by dark palm trees amid the rays of the golden setting sun. Moving further down there is the Beruwala beach and a safe bathing location all year round. Along the way are turtle hatcheries, batik stores, and little wayside shops selling local fruit. One can pay homage to the many temples on the way and admire their beautiful but serene architecture and maybe even gain firsthand knowledge of the art of toddy making.

Ambalangoda is famous for the arts and crafts of mask making as well as home to devil dancing. The famed coral gardens can be witnessed in Hikkaduwa. Put on you're goggles and flippers and explore the array of fish and the exquisite coral rose gardens, and discover a whole new world underwater. Galle is not only sought after for its beaches but also as a cultural heritage site. The Galle fort with its rampart walls and Dutch architecture is the home of some of the best lace makers, ebony makers and gem polishers. Curving east from Dondra Head is Unawatuna, Matara and Hambantota. Unawatuna is fast becoming the new party central and a favourite among young people for the scuba diving and surfing. Tangalle, Koggala, Dikwella, Mirissa (famous for whale watching expeditions), Wadduwa, Weligama are a few other beaches on the southern coast of Sri Lanka.

The Southern hospitality is another factor that adds to the experience. A spicy hot meal of the freshest sea food and a juicy coconut, a true Sri Lankan delicacy, will not go without fail.

One wishing to stay at a Sri Lanka Beach Hotel has many options to choose from. Along the coast are hundreds of hotels of various calibres. Of the Kalutara Hotel, one that provides a comfortable stay is the Mermaid Hotel & Club and perfect for those pilgrims paying homage to the historical Kalutara Temple.