The diversity of things in Sri Lanka to see and do is what makes it truly a great place for a holiday. This time, I drove along the Southern coast and made quite a few stops.

Amongst these stops, there is one place I suggest any traveler to the area to visit – the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation. This Conservation strives to protect sea turtles and hatching sites. Much of the coastline of Sri Lanka, including Kosgoda, was devastated in the 2004 tsunami. The conservation efforts work to restore the hatching and nesting sites for thousands of sea turtles. Don’t miss seeing the oldest albino turtle and many baby turtles.

 

The southern coast also has some of the most popular beaches on the island especially for surfers and people into other water sports. In Hikkaduwa, if swimming isn’t your thing – check out the glass bottom boats, rented from the locals, give visitors a spectacular view of life under water without getting wet.

The coastal road to Unawatuna serves as a reminder to the damage unleashed by the tsunami. A Buddha statue, the Tsunami Honganji Vihara was built with Japanese assistance as a memorial to those who perished after the disaster.  The statue, which is 18.5 meters high, is also the tallest Buddha statue in the country.