This stretch of coast is surprisingly untrodden, especially considering its tranquil beaches, warm hospitality, and boutique luxury accommodation. With its slow seaside vibes, you may want to spend all your time lounging by the pool or sun-basking in the boulder-strewn bays, and who could blame you? But if you did want to explore, there’s a sea turtle farm and hatchery on the edge of Balapitiya Beach, where you can support their efforts to boost the population of native turtles.

You’ll see wildlife on the sand, up the trees and in the sea, but if you want to feel truly immersed, you can take a boat trip across the Madu Ganga wetland, weaving between its 65 islands and miles of mangrove forests teeming with an eclectic cast of birds, crabs and crocodiles.

For a truly unique cultural experience, there’s the Mask Museum in Ambalangoda, where locals still craft vibrant devil masks for dancing rituals in the on-site workshop. Galle is only a short drive or train ride away, for more culinary and cultural exploration. But you’ll find yourself rushing back to this coastal hideaway, ready to be happily ensconced once again in Balapitiya’s laid-back surrounds.