Things to do in Unawatuna
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Mangrove Sanctuary
A different kind of walk (Rs 250) can be found at the Mangrove Sanctuary; a disorganised work in progress, it one day might be a highly commendable local conservation effort protecting a swampy slab of snail, crab, bird and even monkey-filled mangrove forest a few minutes inland. Even though there is little infrastructure at the moment, it’s well worth taking time out from the beach to pace the raised walkways through the tangled roots and trees. To get there look for the yellowing signs along the Galle–Matara road and then ask and ask.
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Dream House
Eat alfresco while being serenaded by classical music at this authentic and truly memorable Italian restaurant. Unusually for an Italian restaurant in Asia, the chef is actually of true-blue Latin stock, which ensures the tomatoes have been placed in just the right spot and the perfect amount of fresh basil has been added. Anywhere else in Unawatuna positively fades in comparison to here, but what’s most surprising is the price – it’s an undisputed bargain.
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One Love Restaurant
This small and friendly place literally hangs above the water and the creaky wooden floorboards further enhance the sensation of being on a boat sailing across the seven seas. It’s unusual in that its good range of curries allows you to eat like a local (a rarity in Unawatuna). Pumpkin curry is the house special.
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Sonjas Health Food Restaurant
Sonjas Health Food Restaurant runs highly recommended day-long cookery courses (Rs 3000) that tutor you in the finer points of Sri Lankan cuisine. The course is led by the lovely Karuna and a trip to Galle market is included in the price. Try to book at least a day in advance.
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Shekira Restaurant
With boats bobbing like ducks on the water just a few metres away, this romantic wooden fishermen’s shack, with just a couple of candle-lit tables, is perfect for a cold sunset beer and an ultra-cheap fried fish dinner washed down with the owner’s friendly banter.
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King Fisher’s Restaurant
If beach erosion hasn’t swept it away by the time you read this (more likely than it sounds), then this tasty Thai restaurant will be a treat. The kitchen is housed inside an old shipping crate, but you eat on a wooden platform floating above the waves.
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Jayasingha Tea Room
Remind yourself of what Sri Lanka is supposed to taste like with one of the superb rice and curries up for grabs at the back of this grocery shop. Locals can’t get enough of the food here, but foreign tourists are as rare as a mild chilli.
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Sanctuary Spa
If a holiday means doing nothing more strenuous than being utterly pampered, the Sanctuary Spa should be music to your knotted muscles. A full treatment (male masseurs only) is around Rs 1600.
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Sea Horse Scuba Diving Centre
A well-regarded and long-standing outfit that rents out snorkelling gear for Rs 800 per day. A Professional Association of Diving Instructors’ (PADI) Open Water course costs €300.
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Jinas Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurant
This enjoyable garden restaurant offers a wide array of European vegetarian dishes, including vegie burgers, lasagne and the not very vegie-sounding peacock pie.
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Harsha Yoga Course
You can stretch and bend through a yoga course with Harsha Yoga Course, which specialises in Ashtanga and Hatha yoga. Individual one-hour classes cost Rs 1000.
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Hot Rock
A classic beachside seafood restaurant with delightful owners and such vivid colours, it looks like a Joseph and his amazing technicolour dream cafe.
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Roti Shop
Dozens of sweet and savoury rottis rammed full of cheeses, fruits and more make for a quick and easy lunch.
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Unawatuna Diving Centre
Runs PADI courses from €300. Also rents out equipment and offers single dives.
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