Mirissa is the largest fishing port on the south coast and is known for its tuna, mullet, snapper and butterfish. In 1980 the first tourist accommodation was built, however it wasn’t until the mid-1990s that tourism to the town started to increase.
Whale watching in Mirissa
Mirissa situated in the southern coast of Sri Lanka is the closest point to the continental shelf and on the migratory route of whales as they move closer to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Take an exciting boat trip out to the ocean and be fortunate to see Blue Whales (the largest creatures on earth), Bryde’s Whales, Sperm Whales, Killer Whales and Fin Whales. You can also meet pods of friendly dolphins such as the Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Spinner Dolphins, Risso’s Dolphins and Striped Dolphins as they playfully somersault and dance on the ocean waves. There’s also a good chance of seeing flying fish, turtles, manta rays and even sharks.
