Coconut Tree Hill

Coconut Tree Hill is a small headland on the edge of Mirissa where dozens of tall palms lean out over red earth toward the sea. It looks almost unreal at sunrise or sunset, and it has become one of the most recognizable images of Sri Lanka’s south coast.

The headland itself is small, and you can walk across it in minutes. Its appeal is the view: palms in the foreground, the Indian Ocean on three sides, and fishing boats and surfers below. It is a short, easy walk from Mirissa beach.

What to see and do

• Watch sunrise or sunset through the palms.
• Photograph the headland from the beach below as well as from the top.
• Combine with Mirissa beach for swimming and seafood dinners.
• Book whale watching from Mirissa harbor in season.

Know before you go

• Time needed: Thirty minutes to an hour
• Access: Short walk from the beach; uneven ground and some slopes
• Cost: Free
• Etiquette: Keep away from the cliff edges, take your litter with you, and respect any restrictions posted on the land

Best time to visit

Come at sunrise for the fewest people, or at sunset for warm light, when it is busier. November to April is the best season on the south coast.

Getting there

Walk east along Mirissa beach and follow the path up onto the headland, or take a short tuk-tuk ride. Mirissa is easily reached from Weligama, Galle and Matara.

Nearby

Weligama Bay is a few minutes west, and Hiriketiya Bay lies further east along the coast.