Highlights
- A favourite photo spot above the waves
- Swing out with nothing but sea ahead of you
- Sip king coconut water and watch the sunset
Overview
The rope swings tied to leaning palm trees near Unawatuna became famous on social media, and they are now among the most photographed spots in Sri Lanka. The best known are at Dalawella beach and at Wijaya beach, just east of the main Unawatuna bay.
What you do
You sit on the swing and, with a well-timed photo, look as though you are flying out over the sea. The Dalawella swing is next to a guesthouse, and the owners or staff often charge a small fee or ask you to buy a drink. Prices change, so ask first. Queues can form at busy times.
Best time to go
Early morning is quietest. Late afternoon and sunset give the classic golden-light photo but are the busiest times. The south coast is calmest and sunniest from about November to April.
How long it takes
Allow 30 minutes, longer if there is a queue.
Getting there
Dalawella and Wijaya are a few minutes by tuk-tuk from Unawatuna, along the coast road towards Koggala.
Practical tips
- Hold on firmly; the swing goes out over shallow water and rocks.
- Do not use it in big waves or high wind.
- Keep phones on a strap or let a friend take the photos.
- Wijaya beach also has a natural pool behind the reef, good for a dip on calm days.
See also Unawatuna beach and the Dikwella swing. Plan with things to do in Unawatuna and Unawatuna hotels.
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