Sri Lanka Itineraries · By area
South coast routes
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
The Southern Expressway makes the south coast the easiest region to reach from the airport. It is at its best from November to April.
Plan
Pick one or two bases, such as Galle and Mirissa, rather than moving every night.
Routes for this trip
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Galle (140 km, 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours)
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Unawatuna (150 km, 2 to 2.5 hours)
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Weligama (175 km, 2.5 to 3 hours)
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Mirissa (170 km, 2.5 to 3 hours)
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Tangalle (230 km, 3.5 to 4 hours)
- Galle to Mirissa (40 km, 45 to 60 minutes)
- Colombo to Galle (120 km, 1.5 to 2 hours)
- Mirissa to Ella (130 km, 3.5 to 4 hours)
Keep reading
- Best beaches in Sri Lanka
- Is it safe to swim in the sea in Sri Lanka?
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Trip cost calculator
- Find a private driver
More itinerary ideas
Cultural Triangle · Hill country · East coast and north · West coast
By length · By month · By interest
FAQs
When is the south coast best?
November to April.
How far is it from the airport?
About 2 to 3 hours by expressway.