Looking for a short, relaxed 5 days Sri Lanka itinerary by the sea? This private tour follows Sri Lanka's quiet south coast from Tangalle to Mirissa, combining nesting sea turtles, a lagoon bird sanctuary, surf beaches and a morning at sea looking for blue whales and dolphins. You travel in your own air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide, so every day runs at your pace.
 
Tour at a Glance
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Tour type: Private tour with car and driver-guide
Route: Colombo Airport – Tangalle – Kalametiya – Rekawa – Mirissa – Galle – Colombo
Best for: couples, families, nature lovers and first-time visitors who want a beach break
Pace: easy, with short drives and plenty of beach time
Tour Highlights
Night turtle watching on the beaches of Tangalle and Rekawa
Catamaran ride through Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary
Surf lessons and the hidden cove of Secret Beach in Mirissa
Whale and dolphin watching off Mirissa
Walking the ramparts of UNESCO-listed Galle Fort
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Colombo Airport to Tangalle
Your driver-guide meets you at the airport and takes the Southern Expressway down to Tangalle. Check in, then unwind on palm-lined Seenimodera beach. After dark, join a guided walk to look for turtles coming ashore to nest.
Day 2: Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary and Rekawa
Start early with a catamaran trip across Kalametiya lagoon, home to herons, kingfishers, painted storks and many migratory birds in season. Spend the afternoon at leisure, then visit Rekawa, one of Sri Lanka's best-known turtle nesting beaches, for a night watch with local conservation guides.
Day 3: Tangalle to Mirissa
A short coastal drive brings you to Mirissa. Spend the day on the beach, book a beginner surf lesson on gentle waves, climb Parrot Rock for the view or walk to Secret Beach, a small cove away from the crowds.
Day 4: Mirissa Whale Watching
Board an early boat to search for blue whales, sperm whales and spinner dolphins. Back on land, relax by the pool or the sea and finish with a fresh seafood dinner at sunset. Read more in our Sri Lanka wildlife and safari guide.
Day 5: Galle and Departure
Drive to Galle and stroll the fort's lighthouse, ramparts, churches and boutique streets. Continue to Colombo for a quick look at the busy Pettah market if time allows, then transfer to the airport for your flight.
 
Why Book This Private Tour
Your own vehicle and driver-guide for the whole trip
Travel on dates that suit you, with no group to wait for
Hotels, pace and stops can be customised, from budget to luxury beach resorts
Muslim-friendly options on request; see our Muslim-friendly Sri Lanka guide
 
Best Time to Visit
December to April is the best time for this south coast itinerary, with calm seas, dry weather and the peak whale-watching season off Mirissa. From May to September the southwest monsoon brings rougher seas and whale trips are limited, so we can suggest an east coast alternative. Turtles nest at Rekawa throughout the year.
Travel Tips
Take seasickness tablets before the whale-watching trip
Never use flash or torches near nesting turtles; follow your guide
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and light clothing
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples
Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorisation; apply on the official Sri Lanka ETA website