Coconut Tree Hill (Mirissa), Sri Lanka

Coconut Tree Hill is a small headland of red earth at the eastern end of Mirissa, covered in tall coconut palms and surrounded by the sea on three sides. A few years ago, hardly anyone knew about it. Then photos began to spread online, and it's now one of the most recognisable views in Sri Lanka. It takes only a few minutes to see, and it's still worth the short walk.

How to get there

From the main beach, walk east along the sand towards the far end of the bay, past the last restaurants. The path goes up and over a small rise, and you'll see the palms ahead. From the middle of Mirissa beach it takes about 15 to 20 minutes on foot. You can also reach it from the main road: walk or take a tuk-tuk to the lane near the Bandaramulla temple, and follow the short path to the sea.

At high tide, or when the sea is rough, the beach route may be cut off by waves washing over the rocks. Take the road route in that case.

Best time to go

• Sunrise is the quietest time, with soft light and very few people.
• Late afternoon and sunset have the most dramatic colours, and also the biggest crowds. Expect to wait your turn for a photo with no one else in it.
• Midday is hot, with harsh light and no shade apart from the palms themselves.

The weather on this coast is at its best from December to April.

What to expect

There is nothing here except the hill, the trees and the view, and that's its appeal. You may find a seller with king coconuts, but there are no other facilities. Ten minutes is enough for most people, although it's a lovely place to sit for longer.

Visit with care

The hill is privately owned land that the owners allow people to visit, and heavy foot traffic has worn away the red soil around the roots of the palms.

• Stay on the worn paths, and don't climb the trees.
• Take your rubbish away with you.
• Drones are popular here. Fly with consideration, and check the current rules on permits.
• Keep back from the edge, where the earth is crumbling.

If access rules change or a small fee is introduced, please respect it.

Nearby

Just west of the main beach, Parrot Rock is a small rocky islet that you can wade out to at low tide for views back along the bay. Secret Beach lies over the hill behind the harbour. Mirissa is also the main base for whale watching, and our guide to photography spots lists more views like this one.