Mirissa in February

Mirissa lies on the south coast, which is in its dry season from about December to April. February is one of the most settled months, with long sunny days around 30°C, warm evenings and very little rain. A brief shower in the evening is possible but uncommon.

The sea is calm on most days. The middle of the bay is the most sheltered and best for swimming, while the edges and the stretch near Parrot Rock can have more movement. Swell picks up on some days, so follow local advice and swim where others are swimming.

Sunrise is around 6.30 and sunset around 6.20. Early mornings are the coolest and calmest part of the day, which is why whale watching boats, photographers and swimmers all head out early.

Mirissa's whale season runs roughly from December to April, when boats head to the deep water south of Dondra Head. February is in the heart of the season. Blue whales are the main attraction, and sperm whales, Bryde's whales, spinner dolphins and flying fish are also seen on many trips.

Boats leave the harbour around 6 to 7am and return around midday. Trips can last four to five hours, depending on where the whales are. The sea is usually calm in February, but seasickness is still possible, so take tablets if you are prone to it.

Choose an operator that follows responsible whale watching practices, keeps a sensible distance and does not chase or surround the animals. Sightings are very common in February but are never guaranteed.

Mirissa's main beach curves for about a kilometre, with restaurants and guesthouses along its length. In February it is busy, especially in the middle. Parrot Rock, a small rocky island at the western end, can be climbed at low tide for views along the coast.

Coconut Tree Hill, a headland covered in palms at the eastern end, is one of the most photographed spots on the south coast. It is busiest at sunset. Visiting at sunrise or early in the morning gives the best light and fewer people.

Turtles are sometimes seen feeding near the rocks, and snorkelling is possible on calm days near Parrot Rock, though visibility varies.

Secret Beach is a small cove west of the main bay, reached by tuk-tuk and a short walk. It has calm water in a natural rock pool, good for swimming and snorkelling, and is much quieter than Mirissa's main beach, especially in the morning.

Weligama, about 15 minutes away, has a wide bay with gentle surf and a less crowded beach. Talalla and Dikwella, further east, are quiet bays with boutique stays.

Staying a little away from the main beach, in the hills behind the bay or on the road towards Weligama, gives quieter nights while keeping Mirissa's restaurants and whale watching within reach.

After sunset, Mirissa's beachfront comes alive. Restaurants set tables on the sand and display the day's catch, which you choose and have grilled. Bars play music, and some host beach parties at weekends.

In February, popular restaurants fill quickly. Booking ahead or eating early helps. Remember that alcohol is not sold on poya days, including the Navam full moon in February.

For a quieter evening, choose a restaurant at the eastern end of the beach or one of the smaller places in the lanes behind it.

Mirissa has guesthouses, boutique hotels and a few larger resorts. Book three to six months ahead for February, especially for beachfront rooms. If Mirissa is full, Weligama, Talalla and Dikwella are good alternatives within a short drive.

Mirissa is about two and a half hours from the airport by expressway and about an hour from Galle. Yala and Udawalawe are within reach for safari, about two to three hours away.

The planners at Lankan Stays & Trails often suggest two or three nights in Mirissa or nearby in February, with whale watching on the first morning and a beach day to follow.