Beruwala is nestled on Sri Lanka's southwest coast, about a 90-minute drive from Colombo. This coastal gem has a little something for everyone. Beruwala may only cover around 15 square kilometers, but don't let its modest size fool you. It’s packed with history, culture, and beachside bliss.

Discovering Beruwala: More Than Just a Beach

Whether you're lounging under a palm tree, building a sandcastle that would make your five-year-old self proud, or diving headfirst into some water sports, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this beach.

But Beruwala isn’t just about soaking up the sun. This place has a story to tell. It’s the oldest recorded Muslim settlement in Sri Lanka, with roots going back to the 8th century, thanks to wandering Arab traders.

Must-See Spots

Beruwala has plenty to keep you entertained. The Brief Garden, designed by the world renowned landscape architect Bevis Bawa, is like wandering through a lush, tropical dream. It’s one of those places where you can lose track of time, marveling at the exotic plants and quirky sculptures. 

Then there’s the Barberyn Island Lighthouse, perched on a rocky little island just off the coast. It’s worth the short boat trip to experience the panoramic view from the top. 

History Unwrapped: Beruwala’s Olden Days were Golden

Back in the day, Beruwala was more than just a pit stop for travelers. It was a melting pot of cultures, a place where different civilizations mingled and, naturally, traded a lot of spices. The city was even known as "Berbereen" in honor of Sheikh Yusuf bin Ahmad al-Kawneyn, a Somali scholar who helped establish the first Muslim settlement. In some ways, Beruwala was a kind of medieval LinkedIn for traders, where instead of exchanging business cards, people swapped cinnamon and gemstones.

And it wasn’t just the Arabs; the Chinese were also regulars at the port, bringing their goods and taking back treasures. If you stroll through the town today, you’ll find remnants of this rich history in the architecture, the local customs, and, most notably, the mosques.

The Perfect Time to Visit: Timing Is Everything

Timing a trip to Beruwala can be like trying to plan a barbecue in England because sometimes the weather just has other plans. The best time to soak up the sun is between January and March when the skies are clear, the days are warm, and there’s a lot less chance of getting drenched by a sudden tropical downpour. From April to December, you're playing Russian roulette with the monsoon season. Sure, you might catch a break, but more likely, you’ll end up spending more time indoors than you planned.

Things to Do: More Than Just Sunbathing

Let’s get one thing straight here. If all you do in Beruwala is sit on the beach, you’re doing it wrong. Snorkeling near the reef gardens is a must-do, especially if you’re secretly thinking of yourself as an amateur marine biologist every time you spot a colorful fish. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of water sports to get your adrenaline pumping and that goes from from jet skiing to windsurfing.

But there’s also a quieter side to Beruwala. The nearby Aluthgama market is a cultural experience unto itself. It’s not just about shopping but also about embracing the chaos, bargaining like your life depends on it, and trying local delicacies you can’t pronounce but definitely want to taste. Trust me, nothing brings you closer to understanding a place than tasting its street food.

Shopping: Souvenirs That Don’t Scream “Tourist”

Speaking of shopping, Beruwala has a nice mix of modern boutiques and traditional markets. Sure, you’ll find the usual suspects like anywhere else, the branded clothes, jewelry, and dining venues, but the local bazaars are where the magic happens. That’s where you can find handcrafted souvenirs, woven bags, and artisanal jewelry. Just remember, haggling is expected, so bring your best bargaining game. You might walk away with a fantastic deal or just a hilarious story about how you accidentally paid double.

Getting There: The Journey Matters

Getting to Beruwala from Colombo is a bit of an adventure in itself. Sure, you could take the train, but with only a handful of stops in Beruwala, you’ll have to be lucky or patient (or both). The Colombo-Galle A2 highway is a more reliable option, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness. No jerky train rides here, just a scenic drive down the coast. The whole journey takes less than two hours, but let’s be real, you’ll want to factor in a few stops along the way. After all, there’s no rush when paradise is waiting.

So, there you have it! Beruwala in a nutshell. It’s not just another beach town, but a place where history, culture, and natural beauty collide in the most delightful way. Whether you’re in the mood for a lazy beach day, a deep dive into local history, or a bit of both, Beruwala delivers with a smile (and maybe a sunburn if you’re not careful). Go, enjoy, and don’t forget to send a postcard or at least a sun-soaked selfie.