Unawatuna is a coastal town situated in the South of Sri Lanka that has long been popular with those interested in marine life as well as the adventurous visitors wanting to try their hand at diving and snorkelling. Lately however the town has acquired a name for its weekend parties that are highly in demand.
Although situated next to the historic town of Galle with its harbour, the waters in and around Unawatuna are protected by unique twin reefs. One reef shaped as a bay is protected by another shallow reef. This feature ensures that reef fish and marine life attracted to the reefs are commonly found and the calm waters caused due to the reef allow for excellent snorkelling opportunities.
There are many beaches in Unawatuna each of which offers its own unique type of underwater world for the underwater enthusiasts. The Unawatuna Bay along which most of the hotels and home stays are hubs of activity and the PADI dive centre is one of the favourite places that see amateurs and professionals return all year around. The Jungle Beach although somewhat secluded is also quite popular and is ideal for those wanting the best out of snorkelling. Bright yellow, blue and camouflaged black and brown fish of all shapes and sizes and other sea creatures jostle together in a colourful symphony that is a wonder to witness.
The months from October to April are usually the best for visibility; however the ideal warm water temperatures mean that snorkelling can be done during other months as well. Taking a trained expert with you especially on these occasions is advisable due to the sudden rains and winds that the monsoon seasons can cause.
Snorkelling gear can easily be obtained either for purchase or rent from any of the diving schools that line up the coastal areas. Although you may visit Sri Lanka with the idea of enjoying water sports, there may be other activities you would like to pursue. For this type of discerning traveller there are many sri lanka tour packages to choose from. Well known agents or tour operators such as Shanti Travel Sri Lanka are able to balance your interests and match you to an ideal tour with their sri lanka tailor made tours that will complete your stay in Unawatuna.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+