Sri Lanka is a wonderful destination for families. This little island seemingly has it all with something to offer every family whether you’re looking for culture, wildlife, adventure or just a week or two soaking up the sunshine on some of Asia’s best beaches.
Little kids will love the palm-fringed beaches and calm, swimmable waters, and will delight at the numerous turtle sanctuaries found near Bentota. For big kids and teens Sri Lanka is activity heaven, from water skiing and surfing on the coast to canoeing, and mountain biking in the hill country. And for parents there’s everything you could possibly hope for in a family holiday destination – action, adventure, culture, history, relaxation, great food and the chance to create some incredible memories with your kids. And, if you’re looking for some great places to stay, have a look at our favourite family hotels.
Sri Lanka, a wonderful family holiday destination
1. Release Baby Turtles into the Ocean
Go turtles go!
Five species of sea turtle call Sri Lanka home, the Olive Ridley Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle, Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle and Leatherhead Turtle. Their major nesting habitats are located along the southern coast in the Galle District and a number of turtle hatcheries can be found along the southern coastal road, from Bentota onwards.
Established to help protect these wonderful creatures, it’s definitely worth stopping by a turtle hatchery at least once. Learn about the dangers turtles face, the conservation efforts in place and meet the turtles! Kids may even be able to help release baby turtles back into the ocean – an unforgettable experience. Near Bentota, Club Villa is a great hotel for families.
2. Fish Like a Local
Perfecting the art of stilt fishing
If you want to fish in Sri Lanka you’re going to have to practice your balancing skills as local fisherman traditionally perch on stilts to snare their catch of the day. The stilt poles, known as riti panna, can be seen along the southern coaststuck a few metres offshore in the water. A small bench is attached to the poles and this is where the fishermen balance above the water. This method is used only for catching small reef fish called ‘Bollu’ and ‘Koramburuwo’, tiny fish not dissimilar in size to a sardine.
The origins surrounding stilt fishing are unclear although traditionally the skill was handed down generation to generation. Sadly there are fewer and fewer fishermen practicing the skill today but you’ll usually see some fishing at sunset, noon and sunrise – you can even have a go yourself!
3. Explore the Ancient Fort of Galle
Exploring the streets of Galle Fort
Galle’s 17th-century Dutch Fort is one of Sri Lanka’s highlights. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 and then extensively fortified by the Dutch from 1649 onwards, the fort has been beautifully preserved and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk the ramparts and then wander the charming, narrow streets lined with old houses and historic churches. There’s also a good selection of boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. What’s really interesting about the fort, however, is that it’s still a living, breathing community with administrative offices and children heading off to school. Travel writer Juliet Coombe’s book Around the Fort in 80 Lives is a great introduction to some of the characters that live here. Don’t miss the locals jumping off the ramparts into the waters below!
4. Catch a Game of Cricket
Wickets and overs in Galle
Cricket was first introduced to Sri Lanka (then called Ceylon) when the island became a British colony in 1802. It didn’t take long for the game to take off and today it’s the most popular sport in the country.
Despite its tiny size, the island has eight grounds that have been used to host international cricket matches including stadiums in Colombo, Kandy and Galle. The Galle International Stadium was originally opened in 1829 as a horseracing course but was soon taken over by stumps and wickets. Today it’s one of the most picturesque Test grounds in the world with views of the Dutch Fort from the stadium. If you’re lucky, your trip might coincide with a Test match and even if you can’t get tickets, you can watch with the locals from the fort ramparts.
5. Learn to Surf
Learn to surf in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is well known as a great surf destination. Because of the island’s two seasons you can always find waves somewhere; the south west coast between November and March and the east cost from May to September.
But what if you can’t tell your barrels from your breaks? Fortunately Sri Lanka offers consistent, small beginner-friendly waves, especially along the south west coast. Weligama in particular is a popular spot for beginners as it’s a sheltered bay, protected from the wind. There are a number of local surf schools here where you can have lessons or simply hire a board. It won’t be long before you’re charging and carving like the best of them.
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