view · Southern
Coconut Tree Hill and Parrot Rock, Mirissa — Matara
Cover photo: Alex Azabache (Unsplash)
- District
- Matara
- Province
- Southern
- Best for
- Photographers and sunset chasers; palm viewpoint over Mirissa bay
About this place
Palm-covered headland at the east end of Mirissa beach with Parrot Rock islet offshore at low tide. Walk up free in 10 minutes; best at sunrise or late afternoon. Crowded at sunset; wear grippy shoes on the rocks and guard phones from monkeys.
Visitor brief
Good to know before you go
- Free access; best at sunrise or late afternoon for light and bearable heat.
- Wear grippy shoes; the headland slope and Parrot Rock are slippery, especially when wet.
- Cross to Parrot Rock only at low tide and check tide times; the wade can turn dangerous in rough seas.
- Guard phones, food and sunglasses from monkeys.
- Very crowded at sunset; go early morning for a quieter visit.
How to travel there
At the east end of Mirissa Beach; walk from anywhere in Mirissa town (~10-20 min) or tuk-tuk to the headland path.
Where to stay
Mirissa east end (guesthouses and mid-range hotels near the hill path) or central Mirissa beach strip.
Nearby places
Mirissa Beach, Mirissa Whale Watching harbour, Weligama Beach Surf Bay, Polhena Beach (Matara)
Scams to watch for
- No ticket or guide is needed; ignore anyone charging an 'entrance fee' to the hill.
- Coconut-drink and photo-props sellers at inflated tourist prices; agree price before accepting.
Comments & tips