Hobby trips

Dive centres on Unawatuna beach run short boat trips to coral gardens, rock reefs and wrecks, with beginner courses as well as fun dives.

Walk straight in from the beach to snorkel over the reef, where green turtles come close to shore, especially early in the morning. Keep clear of the glass-bottom boat lanes for clearer water.

A small, sheltered cove below Rumassala hill with calm water for an easy family snorkel.

Bawa’s 1997 hotel on a rocky headland, with Laki Senanayake’s bronze staircase of battling warriors. Visit for tea or lunch.

A 17th-century merchant’s house reworked as a hotel by Teardrop; open courtyards and cool verandas.

An 18th-century mansion and former printing works, now a small hotel with a quiet courtyard.

The Groote Kerk of 1755, its floor paved with old Dutch gravestones. Modest dress; quiet on Sunday mornings.

An Anglican church of 1871 in grey stone, with stained glass and a cool, high nave.

Shipwreck finds from Galle harbour in a VOC warehouse of 1669 by the Old Gate.

A private collection of antiques, gems and old typewriters in a Dutch house on Leyn Baan Street; a gem shop sits at the end.

A white stupa built by Japanese monks on Rumassala hill, with views over Galle harbour.