Thalpe Beach is situated in Galle. It is one of the major tourist attractions you must visit in Sri Lanka. The mesmerizing view of the rock pools between the vast ocean and the sandy beach allures both the local visitors and international tourists into it. Beach is always a place of joy and relaxation that boosts our mental health. Out of all other natural and beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, Thalpe beach stands proud as one of the most aesthetically appealing beaches which brings you to a world that connects you with nature. The turquoise water, breezy air and serene environment provides you a nature escape to enjoy the perfect vacation in Galle.
How to Get to Thalpe Beach, Sri Lanka
From Galle town, Thalpe beach is only 10 km away and approximately it will take 25 minutes to reach your destination. You can either drive your vehicle 10 kms from Galle to Matara direction or take the train to Thalpe and walk 100 m to the beach.
If you are coming from Colombo,
By your own vehicle – Colombo – Katunayake Expressway -> exit toward Kerawalapitiya -> ramp to E02-> exit toward Galle
By bus/train – take the bus/train to Galle from Colombo Fort bus stand/railway station.
Rock Pools of Thalpe Beach
As anticipated, the rock pools at the Thalpe beach are not a creation of nature. As history goes, the villagers have made the pools cutting the corals around 50 years ago to ferment coconut husks in order to separate the coconut coir for their businesses.
Gradually these businesses have gone defunct. Today people jump into those pools and enjoy their lives while appreciating the beauty of corals in them.
However, there are also some pools that are only separated from the outer view. You can swim from one pool to another through the canals beneath the rocks. Moreover, the tides are constantly flashing into the pools giving you the pleasure of new waves of sea water every second.
Best Time of The Year to Visit Thalpe Beach
Guess what, the rock pools of the Thalpe beach are not visible throughout the whole year. The best time of the year to visit Thalpe beach is February to April. Visit either early in the morning or in evenings to enjoy the picturesque beach with gentle rays of sun.
If you are visiting the beach in off-seasons, the pools are either invisible due to hideous waves of the sea or filled with sand and have only mellow tides.
Fun Activities to Do at Thalpe Beach
Thalpe beach is a home to fun and thrilling adventures.
· Sit or stand on rock pools and face the waves coming from the sea over the pools.
o Although this is fun it is rather adventurous and dangerous as well. If the waves are too strong and you are not a good swimmer, it is better not to try this activity.
· Swim from one pool to another under the water
o As mentioned, there are open bottoms to some pools connecting them under water. You can swim through them. But be careful if the waves are too strong.
· Witness fish varieties come into pools with the waves
· Witness the beauty of coral reef in pools
· Enjoy the tire swing at the beach for an elevated view
o You might not see this swing at first. Once you are at the beach walk to your right and carefully examine the coconut trees at the border of the beach for the swing.
· Surf with the waves
o This could be quite dangerous. Make sure to accompany a guide or a professional surfer if you are new to surfing. Take advice from residents or guides if you have not surfed in Thalpe beach before.
· Walk along the sandy beach
o Walking on the beach is entertaining to the eye and refreshing to the mind. The sea breeze and our feeling of connection to the beach can reduce your stress giving you an opportunity to enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
· Visit the restaurants near Thalpe beach to enjoy a Sri Lankan meal
· Spend the night in a restaurant on-looking the Thalpe beach
Tips for The Trip
- Do not forget to bring your swimsuits and towels.
- As the waves can be repulsive sometimes be careful when swimming in open beach areas near the pools.
- Do not surpass the pool area into the deep ocean as it could be dangerous especially if you are not a strong swimmer.
- Always remember, safety comes first!
- Do not forget to take pictures of you, the beach and pools as this is one-of-a-kind beach experience in Sri Lanka.
- Recommend this natural idyllic spot to your friends and family for a fun vacation.
Must-Visit Attractions Near Thalpe Beach
1. Galle Fort
2. Old Dutch Hospital
3. Koggala Lake
4. Yatagala Temple
5. Unawatuna Beach
6. Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre
7. Jungle Beach
8. Martin Wickramasinghe House and Folk Museum
9. National Museum of Galle
10. Mirissa Beach And Whale Watching
To Wrap-Up
Thalpe beach is a must-visit tourist attraction in Sri Lanka. If you are planning to visit Galle for your vacation, do not forget to include Thalpe beach to your list. This is a one-of-a-kind trip you will never regret in life. The serenity of the beach, the beauty of pools and the rolling waves will make you feel like staying here for long hours.
Do not forget to bring your friends and family to the Thalpe Beach trip as it would be the most rewarding feeling to enjoy this beauty with your loved ones. Stay the night in a restaurant near-by to witness the enchanting early morning view of the beach along with the rising sun.
Finally, relish your trip but make sure not to pollute the striking view of the beach with plastic or polythene you bring here. And, do not harm the corals and sea animals you see here. It is our responsibility to protect our nature as it is, for our future generations to come.
Thalpe Beach has many sea animals which are sometimes effect to your skin. All visitors are kind to not interrupt them. And also, all visitors should be kind to protect this place and clean the surrounding of Thalpe Beach area. Some People are throwing plastic bottles, polythene and etc. That is harm to the sea animals and other global accomplishments. Let’s protect these natural travelling places of Sri Lanka.
Article & Photos by 360view.lk Team
