The nature in Sri Lanka varies from tropical beaches to cooler mountain areas, with endless rolling hills of tea plantations. While tourism is currently one of the fastest growing industries in the country, the white beaches are also receiving their fair share of attention. One of these locations is Tangalle Beach in the South Coast of the country. During the period from November to April, it can be difficult to find accommodation, even though that is all that there really is, apart from the beach. Surely there are plenty of amazing beaches to explore in the world, but it is not very often that you would get the whole 11 km (7 miles) beach to yourself, while still being only a minute away from your accommodation, and small shops. This is what you get during the low season (from May to September) in Tangalle, not forgetting about the lower prices and friendly locals happy to see a tourist!
Find an accommodation near the beach
During low season, the average temperature reaches 28 ºC (82.4 ºF), and humidity rises up to 90%; however, this is all doable once you stay in close proximity to the sea. Another reason for staying on the beach is that it is actually very relaxing to fall asleep with the sound of the waves, despite the fact that they occasionally sound like thunder when they hit the rocks and shore. The beach where most of the accommodation providers are located is called Medaketiya Beach. The prices start from 13 USD during low season, for a stay with the local families. One of these recommended homestays is Ananda Home Stay, run by a lovely Sri Lankan family where the mother is famous for her rice and curry! The food in the south is spicier than in other parts of the country, and often the best meals are found in home kitchens. If you are looking for a more formal and larger accommodation, the Ibis Guest House is another good alternative.
Fight the waves
During low season the waves will reach a height of three to four meters (ten to thirteen feet), so hold on to your bikinis and dive in! But do remember that once they hit you from both sides, it’s good to know a few tips and tricks to stay safe! It’s fine to fight them until they suck you in, but once they do, let them take you back to the shore. There is another beach close by called Parey Beach, which is better for swimming and snorkeling, but unfortunately there are many rocks at the bottom.
Don't miss the pink moment
The most beautiful time of the day at Medaketiya Beach is at sunset when the sky turns pink, and the mist of the sea fills the air. This is the time to relax at the hammocks (for instance at Harmony Beach Bungalows), order a cold beer, listen to waves, and watch the dogs play on the beach. When the sun sets, the beach will be filled with small, as well as bigger crabs, so make sure you carry a flashlight and flip flops with you! Apart from crabs, you also get the mosquitoes, which seem to be immune to the local repellents (citronella oil), so it’s best to bring your own from home.
Authenticity of low season travel
When you don’t have the tourist crowds around you, there is much more you can actually do with the locals. Beach restaurants are not busy, so often the employees spend their days playing beach volley and board games - why not join them! Tangalle is a small town, and you’ll get to know the people fast, so don’t be put off by the heat and occasional monsoon rain during low season. In fact, rain during the high temperatures is incredibly enjoyable!
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