Rekawa Lagoon & Beach
A Hidden Gem of Southern Sri Lanka
Nestled along the southern coastline of Sri Lanka, Rekawa Lagoon & Beach is a tranquil and pristine destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and peaceful surroundings. Located near the town of Tangalle in the Hambantota District, this untouched paradise is one of the country’s most serene and secluded coastal retreats. The area is known for its breathtaking lagoon, untouched beaches, and significant role in the conservation of marine life, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation away from the more crowded tourist spots.
Destination Overview: Rekawa Lagoon & Beach
Rekawa Beach is not just another beautiful coastal spot—it's a place of ecological importance. The beach and lagoon area are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, sea turtles, and other marine creatures. The serene lagoon is separated from the Indian Ocean by a thin stretch of sand, offering visitors the best of both worlds—peaceful waters for kayaking and bird watching, and open seas for relaxation and coastal walks.
The Rekawa Lagoon is a peaceful, shallow body of water surrounded by lush vegetation and mangroves, while Rekawa Beach is a long, quiet stretch of coastline that remains largely undeveloped. The beach is a nesting site for sea turtles, making it a special spot for eco-tourism and nature conservation efforts. The beach is also less crowded compared to other beaches in the region, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of southern Sri Lanka.
Natural and Ecological Significance
- Sea Turtle Nesting Site:
One of the most remarkable features of Rekawa Beach is its role as a sea turtle nesting site. The beach is one of Sri Lanka’s top turtle nesting grounds, where five different species of sea turtles, including the Olive Ridley, Green Turtle, and Loggerhead Turtle, come ashore to lay their eggs.
The nesting season typically runs from November to April, and visitors can witness the hatching of baby turtles or see adult turtles coming ashore at night to nest. Eco-friendly tours are available, guided by local conservationists, to ensure minimal disruption to the turtles. - Rekawa Lagoon:
The Rekawa Lagoon is a mangrove ecosystem that is home to various species of fish, reptiles, and birds. The lagoon is rich in biodiversity and is perfect for birdwatching and kayaking. Bird species like the Purple Heron, Great Egret, and Black-crowned Night Heron can be spotted here, making it a paradise for ornithologists and nature lovers.
The calm waters of the lagoon also make it an excellent spot for boat rides or fishing trips with local fishermen, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
Things to Do at Rekawa Lagoon & Beach
1.Sea Turtle Watching:
- One of the most popular activities at Rekawa Beach is sea turtle watching. Local eco-tourism organizations offer guided turtle watching tours in the evening, where visitors can observe the fascinating nesting process from a safe distance. If you're lucky, you may also get a chance to see baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea.
- Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project is one of the organizations dedicated to protecting these endangered sea turtles and offers tours to educate visitors about their conservation efforts.
2.Kayaking and Boat Tours on Rekawa Lagoon:
- Rekawa Lagoon is perfect for a peaceful kayak or boat ride. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for paddling through the mangrove channels, providing an up-close experience with the local ecosystem.
- Boat tours often include birdwatching, fishing, and exploring the various ecosystems around the lagoon, with opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife.
3.Beach Relaxation:
- Rekawa Beach is an idyllic spot for sunbathing, swimming, and long walks along the shoreline. The beach is quiet and relatively undeveloped, so you can enjoy the serenity and natural beauty without large crowds or distractions.
- It is also a great location for enjoying breathtaking sunsets, where the colors of the sky reflect off the ocean and the soft sand.
4.Birdwatching:
- Birdwatchers will be in paradise at Rekawa Lagoon, as the area is home to a variety of migratory and resident birds. Early morning boat rides through the lagoon offer the best opportunities for birdwatching, with species like kingfishers, egrets, and herons visible among the mangroves and marshlands.
5.Nature Walks
- Rekawa and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities for nature walks. The Rekawa Nature Reserve is a peaceful spot where you can take in the flora and fauna of the region. Explore the nearby mangrove forests and the areas around the lagoon while enjoying the fresh air and natural surroundings.
Facilities and Amenities
1.Eco-Friendly Accommodation:
- Rekawa has a number of eco-friendly accommodations that are mindful of the environment and cater to travelers looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. You’ll find a mix of guesthouses, eco-resorts, and beachfront bungalows offering comfortable stays near the beach and lagoon.
- Many of these accommodations are focused on sustainability and support local conservation efforts.
2.Restaurants and Dining:
- Local restaurants and cafes offer a variety of fresh seafood and Sri Lankan dishes, allowing visitors to enjoy authentic food while gazing at the ocean or lagoon.
- You can also enjoy traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry or freshly prepared seafood by the beach.
3.Conservation Centers:
- The Rekawa Turtle Conservation Center plays an essential role in protecting the turtle population. They offer educational programs for visitors about the importance of conservation and the local efforts to protect endangered species. Visitors can learn about the work done to ensure the safety of nesting turtles and the hatching process.
Travel Information
Getting There:
- By Car: Rekawa Beach is approximately 12 km from Tangalle and about 30 km from Tissamaharama. It can be reached by private car or tuk-tuk.
- By Public Transport: Buses run regularly from Tangalle to the nearby areas, but tuk-tuks are the most convenient option for getting directly to Rekawa.
Best Time to Visit:
- The best time to visit is between November and April, during the dry season when the weather is most favorable for beach activities, turtle watching, and lagoon exploration. However, turtle nesting is possible throughout the year, with peak seasons typically occurring between December and March.
Local Currency:
- The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). There are ATMs in nearby towns like Tangalle, and currency exchange services are available in the region.
Conclusion
Rekawa Lagoon & Beach offers a serene escape into nature, with its pristine beaches, rich wildlife, and eco-tourism initiatives making it one of southern Sri Lanka’s hidden gems. Whether you’re seeking to experience the fascinating world of sea turtle nesting, embark on a tranquil kayaking tour, or simply relax by the shore, Rekawa provides a peaceful retreat that celebrates the beauty and biodiversity of the island’s natural world. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers, families, and those looking to connect with Sri Lanka’s coastal heritage in an untouched, eco-friendly setting.
