DRAG

Rekawa: Where Tides Carry Legends and Turtles Return Home

Tucked along the southern coastline of Sri Lanka, just 10 kilometers east of Tangalle, Rekawa is a coastal village that pulses with ancient rhythms, ecological wonder, and quiet resilience. With its golden beaches, mangrove-fringed lagoons, and a community deeply connected to the sea, Rekawa is more than a destination—it’s a living story of conservation, culture, and coastal charm.

The Name and Its Origins

The name Rekawa is believed to stem from the Sinhala word “Reka”, meaning line or mark, and “Wewa”, meaning lake or reservoir. Together, they may refer to the natural lagoon system that defines the village’s geography—a place where water etches its presence into the land. Another interpretation links the name to the Rekawa Lagoon, a vital estuarine ecosystem that has sustained generations of fisherfolk and farmers.

Rekawa is also etched into Sri Lanka’s cinematic history. It was the setting for “Rekava” (1956), the first Sinhala-language film shot entirely on location in Sri Lanka. Directed by Lester James Peries, the film captured the spiritual and social fabric of village life and remains a cultural milestone.

Population & Demographics

Rekawa is a small village located in Rekawa West, within the Tangalle Division of the Hambantota District, Southern Province. It is home to approximately 1,000 residents. The community is predominantly Sinhalese Buddhist, with a growing number of Tamil and Muslim families contributing to the area’s cultural diversity.

The population is largely rural, with extended families living in close-knit clusters. The median age is in the early 30s, reflecting a youthful, hardworking demographic that balances tradition with emerging opportunities in eco-tourism and conservation

Main Occupations & Local Economy

Rekawa’s economy is deeply tied to its natural surroundings. The main occupations include:

  • Fishing: Both lagoon and coastal fishing are vital. Fishermen use traditional outrigger canoes and nets to harvest prawns, crabs, and reef fish. The Rekawa Lagoon is especially important for mangrove crab farming and shrimp harvesting.
  • Agriculture: Inland, families cultivate coconuts, rice, and vegetables, often using organic methods. Palmyrah and coconut-based products, such as coir rope and toddy, are also produced.
  • Turtle Conservation & Eco-Tourism: Rekawa is one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites in Sri Lanka. The Turtle Conservation Project (TCP) has transformed former egg poachers into conservationists, creating new livelihoods through guided turtle watches and nature tourism3.
  • Hospitality & Handicrafts: With the rise of boutique tourism, locals now run guesthouses, eco-lodges, tuk-tuk tours, and handicraft stalls, offering visitors an authentic taste of village life.

Signature Stays: Where to Sleep in Style

Rekawa’s accommodation scene is a blend of eco-conscious luxury and barefoot charm. Top-rated options include:

  • Buckingham Place – A boutique hotel with ocean-view suites, an infinity pool, and a strong focus on sustainability and local engagement.
  • Ananthaya Beach – A serene beachfront resort offering spacious rooms, fresh seafood, and warm hospitality.
  • Sooriya Resort & Spa – A family-friendly resort with panoramic sea views, Ayurvedic spa treatments, and turtle-watching access.
  • Turtle Paradise – A cozy beachfront retreat with direct access to turtle nesting sites and a laid-back vibe.
  • Lanka Beach Bungalows – A collection of rustic-chic bungalows nestled between the lagoon and the sea, ideal for nature lovers.
  • AT ONE – Glamping Rekawa – A luxury tented experience with modern comforts and immersive nature access.
  • Rekawa Turtle Gate – A rising favorite for its eco-friendly ethos and proximity to the beach.

Top Tourist Attractions

Rekawa offers a rare blend of natural spectacle, cultural depth, and quiet adventure:

  • Rekawa Beach: A pristine, undeveloped stretch of coastline where five species of sea turtles come ashore to nest. Turtle watching tours are conducted at night under strict conservation guidelines.

  • Rekawa Lagoon: A tranquil estuary ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and sunset photography. The mangroves are home to kingfishers, herons, and monitor lizards.

  • Turtle Conservation Project (TCP): A pioneering initiative that allows visitors to witness turtle nesting while supporting local conservation efforts3.

  • Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary: Located nearby, this wetland reserve is a haven for over 150 species of birds, including flamingos and painted storks.

  • Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara: A 2nd-century rock temple complex with ancient murals and panoramic views, just a short drive inland.

  • Kayak Tours & Sunrise Safaris: Local guides offer sunrise and sunset kayak journeys through the lagoon, often accompanied by storytelling and traditional music.