South Coast
Beruwala
One of Sri Lanka's oldest harbour towns, now a quiet beach stop.
Why Visit
A historic harbour with one of the oldest Muslim communities on the island, paired with a calm, palm-lined beach that makes an easy final night before departure.
A beach town on the west coast where a rocky harbour and a long-established Muslim fishing community sit alongside a stretch of resort beach — often the first or last coastal stop on a south coast route.
History
Beruwala is traditionally associated with the arrival of some of the earliest Arab traders on the island, whose settlements along this stretch of coast are often cited among the roots of Sri Lanka's Muslim community, alongside other early trading points further north and east. The town's rocky harbour, sheltered by a small headland, has been used by fishing boats for centuries and still functions as a working harbour today. Like Bentota just to its south, Beruwala's beach strip developed into a resort area from the mid-20th century onward, drawn by calm water and a stretch of coast within easy reach of Colombo.
Things to Do
- Relax on the beach
- Visit the harbour and fish market
- See the Kechimalai Mosque, one of the island's oldest
- Day-trip to nearby Bentota or Aluthgama
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Beruwala known for?
A historic harbour with one of the oldest Muslim communities on the island, paired with a calm, palm-lined beach that makes an easy final night before departure.
When is the best time to visit Beruwala?
The best time to visit Beruwala is December to April, in the southwest's dry season.
What can you do in Beruwala?
Popular things to do in Beruwala include relax on the beach, visit the harbour and fish market and see the Kechimalai Mosque, one of the island's oldest.
Where is Beruwala located in Sri Lanka?
Beruwala is located in South Coast, Sri Lanka.
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