Among the many things to do and explore in Mirissa, Sri Lanka, Parrot Rock sits high up on that list. Located to the left of the Mirissa Beach entrance, Parrot Rock is a small rock island just under 50 feet from the beach. Offering stunning views of the ocean laid out beyond it, Parrot Rock is one of those cool spots in Mirissa you can easily visit in a short amount of time. It’s an isolated viewpoint that allows for a stunning panoramic view of Mirissa Beach.
HOW TO GET TO PARROT ROCK
Once on Mirissa Beach, you can’t miss it. To the left of the entrance (when looking out into the water) you’ll see a rock island perched out about 50 or so feet from where the waves crash into the Mirissa Beach shoreline.
Getting to the Island can be a little tricky as you need to walk through the water to get there and the water can be waist high at times depending on the tide and time of day you make the short trip. Either way, getting wet is inevitable. Once across the water there is a staircase leading you to the top of the rock which gives you a panoramic view of Mirissa beach, coconut tree hill to your left, and the vast ocean spread out beyond.
BEST TIME TO VISIT PARROT ROCK
Parrot Rock can be accessed at any time during the day, although sunrise and sunset are probably the best times to go. A lot people tend to go for sunset, and the reason as to why is unclear. However, we noticed people often did things later in the day, especially the locals. We chose to go for sunrise and the rock was completely deserted. Sunrise in Sri Lanka is at approximately 6am (check on google as sunrise is dependent on the time of year), so we were there by 5:30 am.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Wear a bathing suit bring and bring a waterproof bag for crossing over in the water (if you don’t have one you’ll have to carry your stuff over your head). At the top of the rock there is grass where you can lay down and relax, perhaps have a picnic A lot of people don’t stay for long as there isn’t a whole lot to do other than enjoy the views, so it’s nice place to escape the crowd during the early morning/afternoon, however, it does get very crowded for sunset.
Parrot Rock is a stunning viewpoint and a great place catch some awesome pictures! If you’re visiting Mirissa beach, be sure to check it out! Also, don’t forget to check out Coconut Tree Hill if you’re in the area as it’s only 10 minutes away. You can easily squeeze in both hotspots in the same day.
WHERE TO STAY
The Spindrift Hostel – One of the best hostels along the South Coast, located in Weligama and is only a 10 minute tuk tuk ride away!!