Sanmira Renaissance
Island stay, tailored simply
Explore the Coast
Nearby Attractions
— Discover Wonder
Explore a variety of sights and experiences within a short period!
Sri Lanka is a most diverse little country that offers an amazing variety of sights and experiences for visitors to this little teardrop-shaped Indian Ocean gem. Sanmira Renaissance is located close to many beautiful beaches that beg to be explored, the closest of which is Unawatuna, an attractive sandy bay popular for lounging and snorkelling that was once voted one of the most beautiful in the world. The virtually deserted palm-fringed beaches of Dalawella, Talpe and Mirissa are also a very short distance away.
Other attractions close to Sanmira Renaissanceinclude Kottawa Rainforest, spice and cinnamon plantations and the fabulous tea plantation at Hinduangoda that produces the world's most expensive tea. The Martin Wickramasinghe Museum and turtle hatchery at Koggala, stilt fishermen at Ahangama and the temples at Yatagala and Rumassala are also interesting places to visit.
Unawatuna Beach
An attractive sandy bay popular for lounging and snorkelling that was once voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The virtually deserted palm-fringed beaches of Dalawella, Talpe and Mirissa are also a very short distance away.
Galle Fort
A historical, archaeological and architectural heritage monument recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Walk along the historic walls, explore cobbled streets and discover hidden galleries, cafes and museums.
Madol Duwa
A famous island in Koggala Lake made legendary by prominent Sri Lankan author Martin Wickramasinghe. Take a tranquil boat ride through the lake's lush mangrove swamps and bird islands to reach this storied isle.
Boat Rides
Scenic boat rides on Koggala Lake and surrounding lagoons offer a peaceful escape into nature. Glide past bird islands, cinnamon trees and ancient temples on a guided or private excursion.
Whale Watching
Witness the gentle giants of the deep from Mirissa — just 45 minutes away. Join private sunrise excursions to encounter blue whales and spinner dolphins in their natural Indian Ocean habitat.
Turtle Hatchery & Farm
Visit the local sea turtle conservation projects at Koggala and Habaraduwa. Learn about marine life preservation and witness hatchlings being safely released into the ocean — a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Koggala Lake
A beautiful lake offering nature tours through lush mangroves, bird-watching islands and the Martin Wickramasinghe Museum. This serene waterway is one of the hidden gems of Sri Lanka's southern coast.
Yatagala Viharaya
Discover spiritual tranquillity at Yatagala Viharaya, an ancient Buddhist rock temple set in a peaceful village environment. The sacred Rumassala hill nearby is also steeped in Ramayana legend.
Kottawa Rainforest
Immerse yourself in incredible biodiversity at the Kottawa Forest Reserve, offering rich flora and fauna right at your doorstep. A paradise for birdwatchers, nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Sri Lanka's last remaining primary tropical rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to hundreds of endemic species of flora and fauna, Sinharaja is a must for nature enthusiasts.
Cinnamon Trails
Journey into the hills to explore spice and cinnamon plantations, alongside the fabulous Hinduangoda tea estate which produces some of the world's most exquisite and expensive tea.
Stilt Fishing
Witness the iconic and picturesque stilt fishermen patiently casting their lines into the surf along the Ahangama and Koggala coastlines — a uniquely Sri Lankan sight best seen at dawn or dusk.
Surfing
Catch world-class waves at Unawatuna and the nearby breaks at Weligama and Midigama. Lessons and gear rental available for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly reef breaks to more challenging point breaks.
Diving & Snorkelling
Explore vibrant coral reefs, colourful marine life and historic shipwrecks in the clear warm waters of the Indian Ocean just off Unawatuna beach. Equipment rental and guided dives are available nearby.