Best Things to Do in Marawila, Sri Lanka (2024)

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Marawila resort in Sri Lanka is also called the “honeymoon resort”. This is the perfect place if you’re looking for relaxed and secluded beach holiday in tropical country. Check this ultimate guide for first timers about best things to do in Marawila, Sri Lanka. Make sure you’ve included all popular places to visit and tourist attractions in your bucket list.

Marawila General Info

  • Location: 30 km north of Negombo.
  • Average air t: in winter – 31 during the day, 23 at night; in summer – 30 during the day, 26 at night.
  • Average t of water: in winter – 28 degrees, in summer – 27 degrees.
  • Best season to visit: mid-December-early March, high season – from mid-autumn to mid-spring.
  • Feature: sparsely populated even in high season.
  • On the map : link.
Marawila Resort (Sri Lanka)

Marawila Beaches

One of the most popular things to do in Marawila is beach exploration. Beach line in Marawila is wide enough, so you don’t have to look for a free spot. Marawila is a rural settlement, with a protected conservation area located next to it. There are no huge villas and hotel complexes located nearby.

Beaches in the area are sandy, with yellow, fine and very clean sand, gentle water entrance, and warm water near the coast. There are no coral reefs, but snorkeling and diving are still popular: you can meet sea turtles, small colorful fish, rays and dolphins.

Hundreds of tropical birds live in the jungle surrounding Marawila, so it’s also a great place for birdwatching. And just in one hour and 30 minutes drive there is one of Sri Lanka national parks – Wilpattu.

Dickman Resort Hotel in Marawil (Sri Lanka)
Dickman Resort

St. Anne’s Church Palangathure

This church is located not far from Negombo and is included in the list of best religious places to visit in Sri Lanka. Beautiful white stone chapel is recommended for visiting.

Dutch channel

As you can guess by its name, Dutch channel appeared in Marawila when Sri Lanka was Dutch colony. Since that time this canal has been used for boat trips. Along the way, you’ll see many beautiful colonial-style houses, lagoons, animals – you will definitely enjoy the trip.

Cathedral of St. Mary in Negombo

From Marawila you can go on a tour and check Roman Catholic Cathedral which is the largest one in Sri Lanka. Suitable for those who love historical sights, sculpture and art.

Anawilundawa Wetland

About 40 km to the north, there is a wetland sanctuary Anawilundawa. There are several eco-systems with inhabitats typical for each of them, salt and freshwater, as well as wetland forest. It’s a place of living for up to 150 species of birds, 70 species of butterflies and 20 species of mammals.

Marawila fish market

The resort itself has a market where the freshest seafood is sold. Or you can visit Negombo, where there are several fish markets as well. Don’t expect too much from the place, as there is no ice or any freezers, so be ready for really intensive fish smells.

Marawila Hotels

There are not so many hotels in the city, but you still have a chance to find options for any budget. If you’ve decided to spend vacation in Sri Lanka in Marawila, consider to stay in one of the resort’s unusual hotels:

  • Waterland. Hotel with lots of pools and water slides, located not in Marawila but in Negombo. The cost of a double room with breakfast included – from 120 USD per day. Click here for more details.
  • Dickman Resort. Beautiful hotel, equipped with appliances rooms, beach 200 meters away. The cost of the room is from 60 USD. Find more details here.
  • Coco Village Hotel. There are no rooms here, but there are small houses with thatched roofs. The complex resembles a tropical village with a very well-groomed territory. All amenities included. Price from 25 USD. Click here to check for availability.
St. Mary's Cathedral in Negombo (Sri Lanka)
Cathedral of St. Mary in Negombo.

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