Polhena Beach

Polhena is a beach located close to Matara, about a 2-3 hour drive from Colombo, in the South coast of Sri Lanka. You can also reach it via bus and train between 3-6 hours depending on mode and time of of transport. An idyllic beach in the South Coast, Polhena is a haven for backpackers and luxury travelers alike.

Polhena boats plenty of space to sunbathe. The sea at Polhena is very shallow and thus it is great for children. The beach boasts plenty of good restaurants and guest houses so food and drink is good and aplenty.

One of the most popular things to do in Polhena is to go snorkeling in the idyllic blue waters. The sea here boasts plenty of marine biology such as various  different species of fish, stingray and plants. However the most popular attraction in Polhena are its turtles, visitors can actually come close to turtles and touch and play with them as you float in the sea in bliss, guided by one of the local expert guides who will ensure your snorkeling excursion is fun and safe.

The tide is largely high, bu at some points of the year it can also be very good for surfing. Polhena is a clean beach but it also attracts a large local crowd during weekends, so keep that in mind if you are looking for more peace and quiet. The reef also has some nice deep pools, but swim there safely and pay attention to the warning flags posted in certain dangerous areas.

Polhena is a also a great spot from which to access beaches nearby, located as it is in a strategic place which places you in the middle of a number of exotic beaches with varying attractions such as Mirissa, Weligama, Black Beach and Hiriketiya, among the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.

Triple O Six in Polhena is a luxurious boutique hotel which has 21 very elegantly designed rooms that appeal to modern aesthetic sensibilities. All its rooms boast floor to ceiling windows with majestic views of the swimming pool and partial views of the ocean.

Ubuntu Boutique Hotel by Lantern is another tastefully themed establishment which will lure you with its beautiful combination of construction and green landscaping. Finally plenty of great little sports to eat, drink and make merry dot the coast of Polhena, Doctor’s House in particular is famous for its wood baked pizza and live music.