Beruwela is famous for the Golden Mile of Sri Lanka – a strip of beach which is known as Sri Lanka’s resort destination par excellence, perfect if you’re looking for a nice tropical holiday with the heaving beaches, bland food and characterless accommodation. Big resort hotels stand shoulder to shoulder along the broad and still attractive beach, separated by the stout fences and armed guards from any contact possible contact with the ordinary life of Sri Lanka outside, while the locals poke their noses through the fences and ogle the fantasy of foreign luxury within the hotel premises. Things are a lot better and quieter at the northen end of the beach, which preserves a fine swathe of relatively unspoilt sand and offers a couple of reasonable budget options. There are lifeguards all along the main stretch of Beruwela beach, flags outside the resort hotels indicate whether it’s safe to swim or not.tempor non tincidunt elementum orci, fringilla. Scelerisque nunc ullamcorper elementum etiam pulvinar sit commodo placerat massa.

TouringSriLanka
TouringSriLanka
TouringSriLanka
TouringSriLanka

Beruwela

Although some areas of the coast here – the main section of Beruwela beach in particular – are now eminently missing due to the devastating Indian Ocean Tsunami which happened in December 2004, there are still exceptions, including a cluster of excellent (though relatively expensive) boutique hotels at the quiet end of Bentota, and a handful of attractive (and much cheaper) guest houses on the beautiful lagoon which backs the busy little town of Aluthgama, sandwiched between Bentota and Beruwela. Many of the hotels here are the work of local architect Geoffrey Bawa.gravida.

Historical Background:

Beruwela, just north of Bentota, is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest coastal settlements with a rich Islamic and trading legacy:

  • First Muslim Settlement: Beruwela is believed to be where Arab traders first settled in Sri Lanka in the 8th century. It still hosts one of the country’s oldest mosques, the Kechimalai Mosque.

  • Fishing & Trade Port: Its natural harbor served as a maritime gateway, linking Sri Lanka to the Middle East and India for centuries.

  • Historic & Cultural Appeal: Its reputation as the cradle of Islam in Sri Lanka attracted cultural travelers.

  • Golden Beaches: The wide, gentle beaches became ideal for families and couples seeking quiet escapes.

  • Development of Resorts: Major resorts were established along Moragalla Beach, drawing both domestic and foreign tourists.

  • Proximity to Bentota: Its closeness to more active towns like Bentota offered balance — peace with accessibility.

  • Water Sports & Ayurveda: Growing interest in Ayurvedic retreats and water activities boosted the area’s popularity.

Beruwela has grown into a peaceful beach destination with strong cultural identity and family-friendly appeal:

  • It’s known for its golden beaches, calm seas, and a blend of Muslim and Sinhalese cultures.

  • The town offers both historical exploration and modern coastal leisure.

  • Geography: Situated at the mouth of the Bentota River, Beruwela features shallow beaches, lagoon-like waters, and coral-rich areas.

  • Climate: Warm and humid year-round, with ideal conditions between December and April.

Attractions in and around Beruwela:

  1. Moragalla Beach – Calm and quiet, ideal for swimming and beginner water sports.

  2. Kechimalai Mosque – An iconic white mosque on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea.

  3. Beruwela Harbour – A colorful fishing port bustling with local life and fresh catches.

  4. Brief Garden – Former estate of Bevis Bawa, featuring exotic gardens, sculptures, and colonial charm.

  5. Beruwela Lighthouse – Located on Barberyn Island, accessible by boat.

  6. Ayurveda Centers – Wellness retreats offering detox programs, massages, and natural therapies.

  7. Cinnamon Island Boat Tours – Visit small islands and learn about cinnamon cultivation.

  8. Snorkeling & Windsurfing – Calm waters perfect for easy aquatic adventures.

  9. Tsunami Relief Projects – Community centers and craft markets initiated after the 2004 disaster.

  10. Local Muslim Cuisine – Enjoy unique dishes like biryani, watalappam, and spiced seafood specialties.

Things to do in Beruwela

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