Polhena Beach | Matara

Polhena Beach is a stunning and relatively quiet beach located in the Matara District on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to both the town of Matara and the famous Mirissa Beach, Polhena offers a more laid-back alternative for those seeking a serene beach experience.

1. Overview

• Location: Polhena Beach is situated just 5 kilometers from the town of Matara, and it is easily accessible by car or tuk-tuk from the town. It lies along the southern coastline, a short distance from the busy tourist hubs like Mirissa and Tangalle.
• Size: The beach is small and relatively quiet, with a long stretch of golden sand framed by palm trees and rocks on both ends, offering visitors a cozy and peaceful spot to relax.

2. Features and Attractions

Clear Waters and Shallow Bay

• Calm and Clear Waters: Polhena Beach is renowned for its calm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming. The beach is protected by a natural reef that creates a sheltered lagoon, making the water calm and safe for swimmers.
• Ideal for Snorkeling: Due to its protected reef, Polhena is an excellent location for snorkeling. Visitors can enjoy exploring the vibrant coral reefs and encountering a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and small rays. The shallow waters also make it accessible for snorkelers of all levels.
• Relaxed Swimming: Unlike other southern beaches that may have stronger currents, Polhena's calm waters make it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to enjoy a relaxing swim in the ocean.

Scenic Beauty

• Golden Sand: The beach is known for its beautiful golden sandy shore, lined with tall coconut palms and lush greenery, providing a tropical atmosphere.
• Rocks and Natural Beauty: Polhena Beach is bordered by rocks on both ends, creating a picturesque scene. The beach is less developed than others, adding to its charm and rustic appeal.
• Sunset Views: Polhena is a great spot for watching stunning sunsets, with the sun dipping into the horizon over the Indian Ocean, casting vibrant colors across the sky.

Marine Life and Wildlife

• Sea Turtles: Polhena Beach is also a known nesting site for sea turtles, especially green turtles and hawksbill turtles. While the turtles typically nest in the quieter months (usually from October to March), there are opportunities to spot them in the waters while snorkeling or swimming.
• Reef Ecosystem: The coral reefs around Polhena attract a variety of marine life, making it a great spot for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors may encounter different species of fish, crabs, and small marine creatures.

3. Best Time to Visit

• Ideal Visiting Season: The best time to visit Polhena Beach is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers sunny weather, calm seas, and excellent conditions for beach activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
• Monsoon Season: During the monsoon season (from May to October), the sea can be rougher, and there may be occasional rainfall. However, the beach still maintains its tranquil beauty during this time, with fewer tourists.

4. Accommodation and Dining

Accommodation Options: While Polhena Beach itself does not have large resorts, there are several small guesthouses, eco-lodges, and boutique hotels located nearby, offering a range of accommodation options, from budget to mid-range.

• Polhena Sea View Guesthouse: A cozy guesthouse offering simple, comfortable rooms with views of the beach.
• The Blue Sky Hotel: Located close to the beach, providing a more mid-range option for visitors looking for a peaceful retreat.
• Eco-Lodges and Villas: For those seeking a more intimate experience, there are eco-friendly lodges and villas that offer a closer connection with nature.

Dining Options: Polhena Beach has a few local restaurants and cafés along the shoreline offering fresh seafood, Sri Lankan curries, and international dishes. The laid-back atmosphere of the beach makes dining a relaxed and enjoyable experience with ocean views.

• Local Seafood: Freshly caught fish, prawns, and crab dishes are common, served with rice or in curries.
• Traditional Sri Lankan Cuisine: Rice and curry, hoppers, and roti are popular meals at the beachside eateries.
• Café Dining: Several cafés around the beach offer international options like sandwiches, pasta, and smoothies, catering to the tastes of travelers from around the world.

5. Things to Do Around Polhena Beach

• Snorkeling and Swimming: As mentioned earlier, Polhena Beach is ideal for snorkeling and swimming, making it a favorite spot for those who love water activities. You can rent snorkeling gear locally and explore the coral reefs.
• Relax on the Beach: With its peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere, Polhena is perfect for those who simply want to unwind by the ocean, enjoy the sun, and listen to the sound of the waves.
• Visit the Nearby Town of Matara: Just a short distance from Polhena, Matara offers several historical and cultural attractions, including the Dutch Reformed Church, Matara Fort, and Weherahena Temple, where visitors can learn about the region's rich heritage.
• **Visit the Weherahena Temple: This temple is located near Matara and features an impressive giant Buddha statue. The temple also offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
• Turtle Watching: The beach is a great place to spot sea turtles while swimming or snorkeling. If you're in the area during the nesting season, you may also be able to visit nearby turtle hatcheries.
• Cycle or Walk Along the Coast: The quiet and scenic roads near Polhena Beach are perfect for a leisurely bike ride or walk. Cycling along the coast allows you to explore the surrounding areas, including the neighboring Madiha Beach.

6. Access and Transportation

• Getting There: Polhena Beach is easily accessible from Matara, just 5 kilometers away by tuk-tuk or car. If traveling from Colombo, it is approximately a 3-4 hour drive. Visitors can also use public transport, such as buses, to reach Matara and then take a short tuk-tuk ride to the beach.
• Local Transport: Once you arrive in Polhena, you can hire a tuk-tuk or local taxi to get around and explore nearby attractions.

7. Conclusion

Polhena Beach is a peaceful and picturesque beach destination on Sri Lanka's southern coast. Known for its calm waters, snorkeling opportunities, and relaxed atmosphere, it is perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat away from the more crowded beaches of the island. Whether you're looking to swim, snorkel, relax on the sand, or explore the nearby areas, Polhena offers a serene and enjoyable beach experience for visitors of all ages.