Mirissa, has earned its spot as one of South Coast’s crown jewels, luring travellers with its lazy charm, stunning sunsets and coconut palms that make for Insta-worthy spots. 

While the Mirissa crowd-faves include Coconut Tree Hill, Mirissa Beach and Parrot Rock, there are quieter locations as well. Among the well-known locations in Mirissa is also a beach where the jungle and sea merge together. 

We’re talking about none other than Secret Beach. 

Tucked away just around the corner from the bustling main beach, it is the kind of place that’ll make you lose track of days. Now, while the name might suggest it’s a secret, hidden beach, it’s anything but (even though it is much more peaceful than Mirissa Beach). Perhaps it was some time ago, but this small bay-shaped cove tucked into its own private corner has definitely started to shake off its anonymity today. 

So, what does Secret Beach offer and what can you do there? Let’s take a look. 

Why Visit Secret Beach Mirissa

Despite Secret Beach not being a secret anymore, the place is still pretty great. Nestled in a cove, flanked by hills packed with palm trees, the area can be divided into smaller beaches, where one of these beaches is not like the other. 

There’s Blue Lagoon right out front, a calm, natural rock pool that’s perfect for a lazy float under the sun. To its left, we have Palm Cove and this is where the jungle meets the sea. Palm Cove is also ideal for snorkelling. Then, there’s also Shelly Beach - a network of rock pools with a blowhole (that adds a dramatic effect).

1. Blue Lagoon 

Right at the front and centre is the Blue Lagoon - the main act. It’s a shallow, rock pool with clear water that lures you in. You can enjoy the warm, tranquil waters without worry about being swept off to neighbouring lands by rogue waves. Whether you want to float around or have a lazy swim, Blue Lagoon is perfect for you.

2. Palm Cove 

Around the corner from Blue Lagoon is Palm Cove, where the jungle meets the sea. One of the best things about this place is the picturesque cove with golden sand and coconut palms. You can snorkel along the rocks, watch fish dart by and feel like you are living in an underwater fantasy. 

3. Shelly Beach 

If you make your way right along the rocks from Blue Lagoon, you’ll come across Shelly Beach. It’s a smaller beach with a blowhole that erupts and adds a flair of drama. That being said, it’s quieter here and is a sight for sore eyes. 

Getting to Secret Beach 

Reaching Secret Beach from the town is a short hop. However, the journey to Secret Beach is actually part of its appeal. With narrow, winding and steep roads, travellers usually take tuk-tuks from the town centre - where you’ll have to pay a small price for the thrill of the ride. Then, for the last 200 metres, you’ll have to abandon the comfort of the tuk-tuk and stumble the final stretch on foot. 

Walking the entire way is also an option (though it’s not for the faint-hearted). If you do, you’ll have to be prepared for a sweaty and hilly trek. But the best views come after the hardest climb, don’t they? 

P.S. If you are walking, don’t forget your shoes as flip-flops may not cut it.

Best Time to Visit Secret Beach Mirissa

Since this is a Secret Beach that’s not a secret, we’d recommend heading that way early in the morning. This way you can avoid crowds and experience serenity before the others come in. It typically gets a little busy during the day, so the earlier the better. 

Things To Do in Mirissa 

• Coconut Tree Hill: You know that place that’s all over Instagram with red earth, coconut palm trees perched over the ocean? That’s Coconut Tree Hill. It’s a great spot to sit and enjoy the sunset (but be prepared for crowds, especially during the season). 

• Parrot Rock: At the far end of Mirissa Beach is Parrot Rock is yet another great spot to watch the sunset. From the top of this rock, you’ll get amazing views of the surfers on one side and the Mirissa beach on the other. 

• Mirissa Beach: This is the main event - big, busy, touristy, noisy (and a little chaotic). If you head west you’ll notice dwindling numbers of tourists, but it does have a decent surf break. 

• The Doctor’s House: Nope, not a hospital or anything. It’s a 200-year-old former Dutch Ayurvedic hospital turned bar, restaurant and shop. With a garden that spills onto the beach to live music, it’s loved by both tourists and locals to vibe and have a bit of fun. 

• Whale Watching: Yet another popular thing to do in Mirissa is whale watching. Your best shot is from November through April, early in the morning when the ocean is calm.

Want to explore Secret Beach and Mirissa? Contact us at Fernando Travels for more info.