Polhena Beach

Polhena Beach, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka near Matara, is a charming destination known for its calm waters, laid-back atmosphere, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. This beach offers a relaxed vibe with a mix of natural beauty and local culture.

Calm and Shallow Waters

Polhena Beach features calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and safe for families. The gentle waves and clear waters offer a serene environment for relaxation and beachside activities.

Snorkeling

The beach is known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. The nearby coral reefs are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles. Several local operators offer snorkeling tours and equipment rentals.

Local Culture and Attractions

Polhena Beach and its surroundings offer a glimpse into local Sri Lankan culture:

  • Matara Fort: A historic fort located a short drive from the beach, offering insights into the region’s colonial history and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Local Markets: Explore nearby markets to experience local life and sample fresh produce, spices, and traditional Sri Lankan snacks.
  • Stilt Fishing: Witness traditional stilt fishing along the coast, where local fishermen use wooden stilts to catch fish in shallow waters.

Local Cuisine

The Polhena Beach area offers a range of dining options, including beachfront cafes and local restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish, crab curry, and prawn dishes, as well as other local and international cuisine.

Accommodation

Accommodation options near Polhena Beach include a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and boutique resorts. Many places offer beachfront views, direct access to the beach, and amenities such as swimming pools and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Polhena Beach is from November to April, when the weather is sunny and dry, providing ideal conditions for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the local attractions. The monsoon season, from May to October, can bring rain and rougher sea conditions.

Om Matara-distriktet

Matara-distriktet, der ligger i Sri Lankas sydlige provins, er kendt for sin kystskønhed, rige historie og blomstrende lokale kultur. Omgivet af Det Indiske Ocean byder det på fantastiske strande som Polhena og Mirissa, der er populære til svømning og hvalsafari. Distriktets økonomi er drevet af landbrug, især kokosnød- og tedyrkning, samt fiskeri. Historiske vartegn som Matara Fort og Dondra Head Lighthouse fremhæver områdets koloniale fortid. Med sin blanding af naturlige attraktioner og kulturarv er Matara-distriktet en betagende destination for både lokale og turister.

Om den sydlige provins

Den sydlige provins i Sri Lanka er et lille geografisk område, der består af distrikterne Galle, Matara og Hambantota. Subsistenslandbrug og fiskeri er den primære indtægtskilde for langt størstedelen af ​​befolkningen i denne region.

Vigtige vartegn i den sydlige provins inkluderer naturreservaterne i Yala og Udawalawe Nationalparker, den hellige by Kataragama og de gamle byer Tissamaharama, Kirinda og Galle. (Selvom Galle er en gammel by, er der næsten intet bevaret fra før den portugisiske invasion.) I den portugisiske periode var der to berømte singalesiske digtere ved navn Andare, som var fra Dickwella, og Gajaman Nona, som var fra Denipitiya i Matara-distriktet, som komponerede digte om almindelige mennesker.