Sri Lanka: Ahangama to Mirissa for Couples
Join Oriana Findlay as she travels through Sri Lanka, visiting Ahangama, Mirissa, and Hiriketiya. In Ahangama, she stays at The Hotel, a luxurious spot for surfers, costing $350 a night. Moving to Mirissa, she explores Secret Beach, known for its affordable daybeds and vibrant waters, and Coconut Hill, famous for its sunset views. In Hiriketiya, she visits Smoke & Bitters, the 15th best cocktail bar in Asia, enjoying local cocktails and dishes. The journey includes practical tips on costs and transportation, making it a comprehensive guide for travelers.
Who is this Sri Lanka trip best for?
- Travelers who prioritize beach relaxation and local culinary experiences in Ahangama.
- People planning to enjoy sunset views and affordable beach access in Mirissa.
- Couples interested in unique cocktail experiences at Smoke & Bitters in Hiriketiya.
Places featured in this Sri Lanka vlog
The Hotel, Ahangama – Sri Lanka
In Ahangama, we stayed at The Hotel, situated right on the banks of the Indian Ocean. Known for its appeal to surfers, it offers a luxurious stay with a price tag of $350 a night. The location is perfect for enjoying the beach, with easy access to local bars, cafes, and restaurants. The hotel provides a trendy brunch menu featuring Sri Lankan ingredients like avocados and smoked fish, making it a delightful culinary experience.
Secret Beach, Mirissa – Sri Lanka
Secret Beach in Mirissa, despite its name, is a well-known spot but not overly crowded. It's an ideal location for beachgoers and families, offering affordable access with the purchase of a couple of smoothies. The beach club access and daybeds are surprisingly affordable, making it a favorite spot for relaxation. The vibrant blue waters and serene environment make it a standout destination on the south coast.
Coconut Hill, Mirissa – Sri Lanka
Coconut Hill in Mirissa is a picturesque spot known for its stunning sunset views. Visitors often come here to enjoy the panoramic views of the area, with a bar available for those looking to enjoy a drink while taking in the scenery. The location is perfect for capturing the essence of Mirissa's natural beauty, especially when the weather is clear.
Smoke & Bitters, Hiriketiya – Sri Lanka
Smoke & Bitters in Hiriketiya is rated as the 15th best cocktail bar in Asia. The menu is creatively crafted, featuring local Sri Lankan ingredients. The bar offers a unique experience with cocktails made from local coconut liquor and dishes like mackerel on toast. The atmosphere is laid-back, allowing guests to enjoy the sunset with a couple of pre-dinner cocktails, making it a must-visit spot in Hiriketiya.
Activities featured in this Sri Lanka vlog
- Stay at The Hotel in Ahangama, enjoying the beach and local bars, cafes, and restaurants.
- Watch the sunset at Coconut Hill in Mirissa.
- Go on a fishing trip from Mirissa, experiencing local maritime culture.
- Search for cinnamon along the roadside in Hiriketiya.
- Attempt surfing at Hiriketiya Beach.
Travel tips mentioned in this vlog
- Expect to pay around $3 for a beer and $6 to $10 for a cocktail at most places.
- Tuk tuks are cheap and everywhere, costing about $3 even if overpaid.
- The South Coast tends to have sunny mornings and cloudier afternoons.
- In Mirissa, two juices cost about 3,000 rupees, including a daybed and beach access.
- In Mirissa, a tuk tuk ride should cost around 1,500 rupees, but may end up costing 3,000 rupees.
- You don't need a reservation most nights at Smoke & Bitters; just grab a mat and enjoy the sunset.
Questions answered in this vlog
Is The Hotel in Ahangama worth the price?
The Hotel offers a luxurious stay with beach access, local bars, and a trendy brunch menu for $350 a night.
What can you do at Secret Beach in Mirissa?
Secret Beach offers affordable access with smoothies, daybeds, and vibrant blue waters, ideal for families.
How much does a tuk tuk ride cost in Mirissa?
A tuk tuk ride should cost around 1,500 rupees, but may end up costing 3,000 rupees.
What makes Coconut Hill in Mirissa special?
Coconut Hill is known for its stunning sunset views and panoramic scenery, perfect for capturing Mirissa's beauty.
Do you need a reservation at Smoke & Bitters in Hiriketiya?
No reservation is needed most nights; just grab a mat and enjoy the sunset with cocktails.
Memorable moments from this vlog
“Honestly, it was nothing like I expected.”
“The people of Sri Lanka were some of the nicest and friendliest people I have ever met.”
“Sri Lanka is a tropical island shaped by two monsoon seasons which hit the southwest coast.”
“Honestly, I was just trying to enjoy my fresh coconut at a local juice shop by the side of the road when the most adorable little girl and her cat decided to put Elliot and me to work.”
“Honestly, there's not much to say, but fishing was pretty disastrous.”
“Sri Lankan people are some of the friendliest people ever.”
Trip overview
In Sri Lanka, Oriana Findlay visits Ahangama, Mirissa, and Hiriketiya. She stays at The Hotel in Ahangama, a luxurious spot for $350 a night. In Mirissa, she enjoys Secret Beach's affordable daybeds and Coconut Hill's sunset views. In Hiriketiya, Smoke & Bitters offers unique cocktails. Practical tips include tuk tuk costs and weather patterns. The journey provides a detailed look at these destinations, ideal for couples seeking a mix of relaxation and local culture.
Topics: The Hotel · Ahangama · Sri Lanka · Secret Beach · Mirissa · Coconut Hill · Smoke & Bitters · Hiriketiya
