Nestled on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Beruwala is a coastal region that has been loved for centuries with reason varying from being a harbour for trade to being one of the most luxurious tropical getaways of Sri Lanka. Beach hotels in this region boast a glorious view of the wide, crystal blue Indian Ocean, which seems to draw throngs of tourists, as well as locals. The south of the country begins just a hop, step and a jump away from the city or more precisely the iconic Cinnamon Bey, Beruwala, making this coastal city a landmark along Sri Lanka’s west end.
This town has been bestowed this name which is derived from the Sinhalese word meaning ‘the place where the sail is lowered’, and to this day, you can see large ships along the coast. The soft, sandy beach of Beruwala has been dubbed “The Golden Mile” due to the hue of the pristine sand, shaded by palm groves and coconut trees which border the shores.
While you relax on the golden sands of Beruwala, by the vast open sea, you may be able to witness the locals, going about their livelihoods, which include fishing and prawn farming. The salinity of the breeze, the crash of the waves, the voices of the fishermen or beach-goers, the rustle of the coconut trees as they sway in cadence to the wind and the gentle but unmistakable heat of the sun warming every inch of you are the luxuries that Beruwala has to offer.
A short distance from the sea, standing tall on a little island, surrounded by luscious greenery, is the fully functional international lighthouse of Beruwala, which is yours to experience if you’re willing to enjoy a ten-minute boat ride up to it. This lighthouse that is situated 20 feet above sea level provides a magnificent ariel view of the city of Beruwala where you can witness the breathtaking vistas of life of a small, vibrant, tropical coastal town.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+