The most popular diving spots are from Beruwela, just north of Bentota, to the beach resort of Unawatuna on the south coast. At Bentota there are sites 15 minutes from the river where you can swim with the parrot fish, gropers, barracudas and colourful tropical fish. November to March is the best time to dive here because the ocean is calmer.
Hikkaduwa, about 30km further south on the way to Galle, has about 20 dive sites within easy reach. The Sunil Gala, a large rock formation perfect for seeing reef fish, is 15 minutes away by boat and the Rangoon, a beautiful shipwreck of a British steamer, is an hour away and a popular spot with fish schools. Visibility in these parts can reach 30m. |
