This is a big ocean with big swells, and swimming is only truly safe in a very small number of places around the entire coastline of Southern Sri Lanka. Fortunately we are lucky enough to have Mirissa Beach's broad crescent of golden sand and safe swimming just minutes away.

One of the iconic images of southern Sri Lanka is the stilt fisherman, and you'll see them plying their trade in the sea just beyond the fence.

A stroll along the beach at sunset is a lovely way to sharpen the appetite before dinner.

The more energetic may want to try a daytime walk around the headland to Mirissa beach.