Spot sea turtles at Turtle Bay
Mirissa, Sri Lanka • 
Popular
Popular
Best months to visit
Jan, Feb, Mar
23°C – 30°C, warm and sunny with minimal rainfall, high crowds, peak season
23°C – 30°C, warm and sunny with minimal rainfall, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Walking required; not wheelchair accessible.
Walking required; not wheelchair accessible.
Value for money
High
Free access and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Free access and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Magical Moments
Couples loved the romantic, natural setting. Swimming with turtles was unforgettable.
Amazing Wildlife
Witnessing turtles in their natural habitat was a highlight! A must-do for couples.
Scenic Beauty
Stunning location with clear waters. Perfect for a relaxing and memorable day.
Unclear Waters
Some couples noted occasional water quality concerns, impacting the experience.
Overcrowded Beach
Early mornings are best, as it can get busy. Not always a private experience.
Inconsistent Sightings
Some couples were disappointed; turtle sightings are not guaranteed on every visit.
How to book
ViatorRECOMMENDED
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GetyourguidePremium Experience with Hotel Pickup
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before
4h - 5h
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USD 70
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KlookPrivate Full-Day Tour
Non-refundable
8h - 10h
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USD 120
per_person
BOOK
Hours of operation
Monday
08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Tuesday
08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Wednesday
08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Thursday
08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Friday
08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Saturday
08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Sunday
08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
A traveler embarks on adventure at Turtle Bay.
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
MEDIUM
23-31°C
December in Mirissa features warm temperatures with average highs around 31°C and lows near 23°C. Rainfall decreases to 171mm over approximately 10 days, and the sea temperature is around 28°C.
December in Mirissa features warm temperatures with average highs around 31°C and lows near 23°C. Rainfall decreases to 171mm over approximately 10 days, and the sea temperature is around 28°C.
Open
High demand during the peak season may require advance bookings for accommodations and activities.
High demand during the peak season may require advance bookings for accommodations and activities.
Recommended
December marks the start of the peak tourist season in Mirissa, with improved weather conditions and a reduction in rainfall. The area becomes more vibrant, and most businesses are fully operational. It's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance due to increased demand.
December marks the start of the peak tourist season in Mirissa, with improved weather conditions and a reduction in rainfall. The area becomes more vibrant, and most businesses are fully operational. It's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance due to increased demand.
January
HIGH
23-30°C
Warm and sunny with minimal rainfall.
Warm and sunny with minimal rainfall.
Open
High demand may limit availability; advance booking recommended.
High demand may limit availability; advance booking recommended.
Recommended
January offers ideal conditions for beach activities and whale watching, but expect larger crowds and higher prices.
January offers ideal conditions for beach activities and whale watching, but expect larger crowds and higher prices.
February
HIGH
23-32°C
Warm and sunny with minimal rainfall.
Warm and sunny with minimal rainfall.
Open
High demand may limit availability; advance booking recommended.
High demand may limit availability; advance booking recommended.
Recommended
February maintains excellent weather for outdoor activities and marine excursions, accompanied by high tourist influx.
February maintains excellent weather for outdoor activities and marine excursions, accompanied by high tourist influx.
March
HIGH
23-32°C
Warm and sunny with minimal rainfall.
Warm and sunny with minimal rainfall.
Open
High demand may limit availability; advance booking recommended.
High demand may limit availability; advance booking recommended.
Recommended
March offers favorable conditions for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts, though with substantial tourist presence.
March offers favorable conditions for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts, though with substantial tourist presence.
How to get there
Bus
Recommended
Regular buses operate along the coastal route, with stops in Mirissa town. From Colombo, buses bound for Matara (route #2) or Tangalle (route #32-4) are suitable options.
Taxi
Recommended
Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Pickme offer direct routes to Turtle Bay Beach Resort from Colombo (2-3 hours via Southern Expressway).
Train
Recommended
The closest railway stations are in Weligama and Matara. From Colombo or Galle, take a train to Weligama or Matara station, then a tuk-tuk or taxi to Turtle Bay.
Bike
Bike rentals are available for exploring Mirissa and its surroundings at your own pace.
Car
Driving from Colombo, use the Southern Expressway (E01) to reach Mirissa. Parking is available near Turtle Bay.
Shuttle
Shuttle services are available for longer distances.
Walking
Turtle Bay is easily accessible on foot for those staying nearby, as it is situated directly on the beach.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required