Rekawa

රෙකාවා

A protected turtle nesting beach where sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs, particularly between March and August. This important conservation site offers visitors the rare opportunity to witness this remarkable natural phenomenon under responsible guidance.

Things to do

• Turtle Nesting Observation — Join a guided night walk during nesting season (March–August) to witness endangered sea turtles, primarily green and hawksbill turtles, coming ashore to lay eggs on the beach.
• Hatchling Release Experience — Participate in releasing baby sea turtles back to the ocean during dawn hours, a deeply moving conservation activity that contributes directly to turtle survival.
• Beach Walk and Bird Watching — Explore the pristine sandy shoreline and lagoon area where you can spot migratory waders, herons, and other coastal birds that share the Rekawa ecosystem.
• Rekawa Lagoon Exploration — Kayak or walk along the shallow lagoon behind the beach to observe fish, crustaceans, and monitor the wetland habitat that supports the nesting grounds.
• Turtle Research Centre Visit — Tour the Rekawa Turtle Research Station to learn about conservation efforts, turtle biology, and the local community's role in protecting this UNESCO-recognized site.
• Sunset Beach Meditation — Spend quiet time on the beach at dusk, reflecting on the natural beauty and ecological importance of this protected marine sanctuary.

Food to try

• Spiced Grilled Fish (Malu Curry) — Fresh-caught local fish grilled with a blend of chillies, turmeric, and lime, reflecting the coastal culinary traditions of southern Sri Lanka.
• Lamprais — A local specialty of rice baked inside a hollowed-out tomato or wrapped in banana leaf with meat or fish, showing the region's Dutch-influenced cuisine heritage.
• Prawn Curry (Udang Curry) — Plump river prawns or sea prawns cooked in a rich coconut-based curry with local spices, a delicacy particularly fresh near coastal settlements.
• Hoppers with Curry — Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, served with fish or vegetable curry for a satisfying breakfast or light meal.
• Fresh Coconut Water and Fruit — Vendors along the beach offer freshly cracked young coconuts and local tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas, perfect for hydration and refreshment.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Turtle Nesting Protocol — Always follow guide instructions during night walks—use red-filtered lights only, keep noise minimal, and maintain distance from nesting turtles to avoid disturbing this sensitive natural process.
• Support Community-Based Conservation — Rekawa's turtle protection is managed partly by local fishermen and community members who have transitioned from turtle hunting to guardianship; your visit fees directly support their livelihoods and conservation work.
• Dress Modestly and Appropriately — The surrounding villages are conservative; wear lightweight, modest clothing and remove shoes when entering local homes or temples, showing respect for local customs.
• Learn Basic Sinhala Greetings — Locals appreciate visitors who attempt 'Ayubowan' (hello) and 'Shukriya' (thank you) in Sinhala; this small gesture builds goodwill and enriches cultural exchange.

Nearby

• Tissamaharama — 7 km
• Tangalle — 8 km
• Bundala National Park — 11 km
• Polhena Beach — 42 km