Yes, it is quieter than the busiest stretches.

What is the island offshore?

Barberyn Island, about 0.8 km out.

Is there a lighthouse?

Yes, a 34 m granite lighthouse completed in 1889 on Barberyn Island.

The shallow reef water draws snorkellers in calm months.

Kande Vihara and Beruwala's fishing harbour.

Can you see the Barberyn lighthouse from Moragalla?

Yes. Barberyn Island lies about 0.8 km offshore, and its 34 m granite tower is visible from the beach.

Where can I stay near Moragalla Beach?

bookingMentor lists 5 places to stay in Sri Lanka. Rooms start from $82.00 (USD) a night.

Can I ask a question about Moragalla Beach that is not answered here?

Yes. Use "Ask a question" under "Travelers are asking" on this page. The bookingMentor team answers it, and the answer then appears on the page for other travellers too.

How long should I spend at Moragalla Beach?

Most visitors spend Half day at Moragalla Beach.

Which airport is closest to Moragalla Beach?

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is the airport for Moragalla Beach, about 83 km away in a straight line.

Moragalla Beach

Q: Is the water calm?

An offshore reef calms the water in places during the dry season.

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Beruwala, near Bentota, Sri Lanka

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In short

Moragalla, near Beruwala just north of Bentota on Sri Lanka's south-west coast, is a quieter beach where an offshore reef calms the water in places during the dry season. Offshore stands Barberyn Island with its 1889 lighthouse. Beach access is free, and half a day suits travellers wanting resort comfort without the busiest stretches.

Moragalla, near Beruwala just north of Bentota on Sri Lanka's south-west coast, is a quieter beach with a reef offshore that calms the water in places during the dry season. It suits travellers who want resort comfort without the busiest stretches.

Barberyn Island's 1889 granite lighthouse

Offshore you can see Barberyn Island, a 3.25-hectare island about 0.8 km out. Its 34 m round granite lighthouse was built in 1888 and 1889 and first lit in November 1889. The light stands 46 m above the sea, reaches 27 nautical miles and flashes white every 20 seconds. Still staffed and run by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, it was declared an archaeological protected monument on 25 March 2016. It is also called the Beruwala Lighthouse.

Snorkelling and windsurfing on the shallow reef

The shallow reef water draws snorkellers and windsurfers in calm months; red flags mean stay out. Swim only where the water is calm, and avoid walking on the reef.

Fact-checked by the bookingMentor Travel Desk Reviewed November 4, 2026 · Updated when rules or prices change

We check practical details such as entry rules, seasons and costs against official government and tourism sources.

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Key information

🏝️Offshore: Barberyn Island, about 0.8 km

🗼Lighthouse: 34 m granite, 1889

📅Best time: November to April

🎟️Entry: Free

🕐Time Zone: Sri Lanka Standard Time (UTC+5:30)

Explore the area

View in a map

Bentota River and Lagoon 2.8 km

Bentota Beach 3 km

Kosgoda Sea Turtle Hatcheries 13.4 km

Madu Ganga, Balapitiya 17.4 km

See all about this area

✦ Plan your visit to Moragalla Beach Dates, opening hours and how to get there are below. Booking ahead secures your preferred day.

Highlights Include:

Experiences

Quiet beach
Reef-calmed water
Barberyn Island lighthouse
Sunsets