The palm tree rope swing on Dalawella Beach in Sri Lanka went viral very quickly on Instagram and it now attracts travellers from all over the world to get that classic shot on the swing. It’s one of the best ways to end the day by swinging out into the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
However, although social media has made this activity the latest craze, there is so much about this palm tree swing that Instagram doesn’t tell you. Here’s a guide for the Dalawella beach swing in Sri Lanka!
WHERE IS IT LOCATED
Dalawella Beach
Dalawella beach, located in the Unawatuna area southwest on the island of Sri Lanka, is one of the most beautiful beaches. It is around 150 kilometres from Colombo, the countries Capital. The entire atmosphere at the Dalawella beach stretch is relaxed, with almost no tourists around.
Once you reach Dalawella Beach, take a walk along the coastline until you spot a palm tree with a rope tied around it, right in front of the Dream Cabana Guesthouse. The map below shows the exact location of the swing.
Click here to see the location on maps
HOW TO REACH THERE
Unawatuna has its own railway station and it is a 2 hour train journey from Colombo, so you can easily alight there and get a rickshaw or walk the 2 kilometres to Dalawella beach (don't pay the rickshaw driver any more than 200INR for the short drive).
The best option for getting around the south coast of Sri Lanka is to rent a scooter for around 1000 LKR per day. Although if you’re not confident on two wheels, you can also barter with a tuk tuk.
HOW MUCH IT COSTS
Before 2017, the swing was completely free to use. But now the swing comes with a fee of 500INR (for unlimited swings), this helps them to maintain the upkeep of the rope swing. The prices are negotiable, and you can buy a few bottles of water in exchange for a few swings.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit the west the south coasts of Sri Lanka, is from December – March and the best time for visiting the Dalawella Beach swing would be either sunrise, or sunset, depending on what you’re looking for.
Early morning is when you’ll find the least amount of people and hence no crowds waiting to take their photo on the swing. We visited the Dalawella Beach Swing at around 5 pm in the afternoon which is the perfect time to enjoy the sunset and get the best ‘insta-famous’ shots! Be sure not to leave immediately after the sun disappears over the horizon, wait another 15 minutes and watch the colors of the sky become even more intensified.
HOW TO (CORRECTLY) RIDE THE BEACH SWING
The beach swing is a definite Instagram vs. reality moment. Although the swing snaps online look effortless, it isn't that easy. Here are the instructions, to correctly ride the beach swing and avoid getting injured-
1. Firstly, you’ll need to climb up the base of the palm tree, on all fours, using your hands and feet. Then hug the trunk of the tree with your left arm.
2. The instructor will help you hold onto the rope with your right hand, then you can put your right foot inside the rope loop.
3. Use your other foot to push off the tree. Let go of the trunk and then grab the rope with your left hand! So both hands are now on the rope while you’re swinging. Your left foot will be on top of your other one in the rope loop.
And then, all you need is lots of momentum to ride faster or wider, so make sure you push off the tree with enough force.
TIPS FOR GETTING THE PERFECT SHOT!
1. Don't opt for a sunrise shoot as the place is not open early in the morning.
2. The instructors here are really nice and will take photos for you if you’re travelling solo. Alternatively, set up your tripod on the beach and put it on a fast shutter mode, so they could press the shutter or click your Bluetooth remote for you.
3. It is better if you can stand up on the swing and not scrunch up for better pictures.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT DALAWELLA BEACH SWING
Apart from the Dalawella Beach Swing, you can spot large turtles wading very close to shore and if you dare to look down when you’re mid-air on the swing, you can spot the turtles from above! You can also take a short walk down the beach and witness the locals ‘stilt fishing‘ over the reef. This is an old traditional fishing method in Sri Lanka that requires much skill and balance. It allows the fisherman to sit a couple of meters above the water causing minimal shadows and little disturbance to the sea life, in the hope they can catch their dinner. Human ingenuity at its finest!
WHERE TO STAY UNAWATUNA
There are plenty of homestays, private villas, and beach resorts to choose from near Dalawella- in Unawatuna. Here is a filtered list of accommodations, to suit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between:
The best 5-star resort in Unawatuna! Thaproban Pavilion Waves offers beachfront accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool, sun terrace, a bar, billiards table, and dartboard. The rooms are modern and fitted with air-conditioning, flat-screen tv, equipped kitchen, seating area, and private bathroom. American or Asian breakfast is included.
Cost: 5,586 INR/night onwards for 2
MID-BUDGET: Beach Grove Villas
A 10-minute walk from the beautiful Unawatuna Beach, Beach Grove Villas is a 4-star property with an outdoor pool, private barbecue pits and massage treatments. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Airport transfers are available at a charge, while parking is free. The air-conditioned rooms all come with a living room and a TV. The en suite bathroom has either a bathtub or shower.
Cost: 2,964 INR/night onwards for 2
BUDGETED: Cycling Hostel
Just 1.5 km from the Unawatuna Beach and 5 km from Galle city centre, Cycling Hostel is a great stop for backpackers and travellers discovering the south coast of Sri Lanka and it also features an airport shuttle. Guests can grab a bite to eat at the coffee shop/cafe and visit the fitness centre for a workout. Other highlights include a terrace and a garden.
Cost: 439 INR/night onwards for 2 & 488 INR/night onwards for 1
Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka soon? Make sure you do not miss on adding this epic beach- Dalawella Beach, on your itinerary. And if you have already experienced this beach swing, do share you experience with us in the comments below!
For more travel stories and information follow me on Instagram @tan_s07.
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