Mirissa built its reputation on whale watching — its harbour is the main departure point for boat trips to see blue and sperm whales offshore — but the crescent beach, coconut-tree viewpoint and laid-back bar scene keep travellers around well beyond the early-morning boat trips.
Mirissa's harbour is Sri Lanka's main whale-watching departure point — full details in the whale watching in Mirissa guide.
A small headland of wind-bent palm trees overlooking the ocean, one of the most photographed viewpoints on the south coast.
A stretch of relaxed beach bars and restaurants along the main beach makes Mirissa a popular base for evenings as much as daytime activities.
Mirissa's whale watching boats depart at dawn — round out the day with beach yoga or a short drive to Weligama.