Rekawa Beach In Sri Lanka, it is near a small fishing village called Rekawa. The unique beach falls on the Southern Coast and is between two climate zones making it biodiversity-rich. While one side of the beach is part of the dry zone, the other consists of a large lagoon full of lush greenery. A part of Rekawa Beach is best known for being the nesting grounds for five species of sea turtles, along with a range of flora and fauna that decorate it. A beach that celebrates tranquillity and nature, Rekawa Beach is a place to be with your friends and family.
About Rekawa Beach In Sri Lanka
Rekawa Beach is an eco-tourism spot today that is known for its efforts in protecting and conserving sea turtles. However, things were not always this way. Earlier, the illegal stealing of turtle eggs was rampant as that was many Sri Lankans’ sole source of income. Now, the same people are safeguarding the beach’s shores and ensuring everything happens smoothly. The turtle conservation programme started in 1996 and has flourished into a beautiful way to watch one of nature’s most incredible moments.
In Sri Lanka, five species of turtles make their way to nests and lay eggs. These are the Hawksbill Turtle, Leatherback Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, Green Turtle, and Loggerhead Turtle. All of these come to the Rekawa Beach nest, making it a top destination where you can watch the precious marine turtles in their natural habitat. But that is not all. You can find an array of other flora and fauna, such as crustaceans, arthropods, reef fish, molluscs, coral reefs, seagrasses, annelids, marine algae, and hydrozoans on the beach. It is a treasure-trove of marine life’s best!
Must Read: Sigiriya Museum
Things To Do At Rekawa Beach In Sri Lanka
From basking in the sun to taking a stroll through the warm sands. Here are a few things to do at the Rekgawa Beach in Sri Lanka
Bask In The Sun
Rekawa Beach, Sri Lanka, is a secluded beach where you can enjoy some alone time. Just bring a towel and relax while looking at all the beauty surrounding you. From the gentle waves to the many tree shades of green, you will be happy to see nature take its course here. It is a completely captivating experience that you do not want to miss!
Explore By Walking
Walk around the beach to explore the small things that make Rekawa the charming beach. You can witness the rustic and simple life that the locals live. You can watch the mangrove-filled lagoon encompassing one side of the beach and the shrubs that comprise the greenery. Watch the stunningly vibrant birds flock to the beach during the mornings.
Suggested Read: Little Adam’s Peak In Sri Lanka
Watch Turtles
Turtle watching is the main reason tourists come to Rekawa Beach, Sri Lanka. Watch them in their natural state as they make their way out of the beach onto the shores. You can also witness the nesting process and lay eggs. The peak season is from April to July, while the low season is from October to January. It is one of the most unforgettable turtle-watching experiences!
Lagoon Tour
The Rekawa Beach Lagoon is a stretch where you can enjoy the tranquil waters without being disturbed by noise. It is full of mangroves and is bustling with aquatic, plant, and animal life. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the beach while admiring the panoramic views around you. You can explore the lagoon by canoeing and kayaking.
Suggested Read: Bomburu Ella Waterfall
Photography
Rekawa Beach in Sri Lanka is excellent for photography, thanks to the absence of crowds most of the time. The beach offers untouched scenes that are perfect for capturing with your lens. Watching the splendid sunset and marvellous sunrise should be on your itinerary as these scenes are breathtaking. Do not forget your DSLR when coming here!
Turtle Watching At Rekawa Beach In Sri Lanka
The turtle watch programme is always open but the best time to visit is from April to July as it is the high season when you can see anywhere from 5 to 15 turtles from sunset to sunrise. From October to January, the low season is when you hardly see one or two marine turtles. You do not need to book in advance but purchase the ticket before entering the turtle portion. The programme allows you to watch only one turtle up close that arrives before midnight to ensure the other turtles are not being disturbed. Sometimes, you may not see a turtle despite waiting, and in such cases, you can return your ticket to get a refund or donate by not asking for a refund.
Turtle Watch Timings: 8:30 pm to 11:30 pm (entry allowed till 9 pm)
Turtle Watch Fees: INR 140 (Locals), INR 140 (Foreign tourist children), INR 420 (Foreign tourist adults)
Suggested Read: Hakgala Botanical Garden
Tips For Visiting Rekawa Beach In Sri Lanka
- Always wear sunscreen.
- Dress comfortably but modestly, as Rekawa is a village area.
- Wear clothes that are a dark shade and do not reflect.
- Carry a mosquito repellent if you plan on exploring the beach at night.
- Avoid smoking, drinking, and taking drugs at the beach.
- Always keep your belongings safe and close to you.
- Avoid throwing trash near the beach area, and put it in dustbins only.
- Do not touch the turtles or the hatchlings.
- Do not carry torches that emit yellow or white light when going for turtle watching.
- Never use flash when taking photographs of the turtles.
- Always stay in the group you have been assigned to watch turtles.
- Wear water-safe shoes as your feet can get wet, especially during high tides.
- Nest protectors do not speak a lot of English, so be patient.
How To Reach Rekawa Beach In Sri Lanka
Flight: You can travel from Colombo to Hambantota by plane and then go to the beach in a taxi or tuk-tuk, 40 km away.
Train: You can board a train at Colombo and come to Matara by train. Then you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach the beach as the distance is about 55 km.
Car: You can hire a driver or rent a car from Colombo to Hambantota. Shared vans and taxis are also available, but they do not run as frequently, so it may be difficult to book one.
Further Read: Things To Do In Matara
Rekawa Beach must be on your itinerary for your trip to Sri Lanka if you want to watch one of the most magical processes take place! As the site of nesting for marine turtles, you can witness how they come up to the shore and make their way to lay eggs. Get ready to be enchanted like never before!
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source: Shutterstock
Frequently Asked Questions About Rekawa Beach In Sri Lanka
What are the beach timings?
The beach is always open but the section where the turtles make their way to the shore is closed from around 7 pm to 6 am daily.
Is there an entry fee for entering the beach?
There is no entry fee. However, if you want to see the sea turtle portion of the beach you need to pay an admission ticket; INR 140 (Sri Lankans and Foreign tourist children) and INR 420 (Foreign tourist adults).
On what days can we watch the turtles?
The turtle conservation programme is open every day. Hence, you have a chance to witness these amazing creatures daily.
Is Sri Lanka more affordable than Maldives?
Yes, it is much cheaper in comparison making it a perfect tourist destination.
Is Rekawa good for surfers?
The Rekawa beach is not ideal for surfers due to the absence of swells. You can go to other beaches in the area, such as Hiriketiya, Mirissa, and Weligama, for surfing.
People Also Read:
