Beruwala Lighthouse (Barberyn Island)
A white lighthouse from 1889 on tiny Barberyn Island, a short boat ride from Beruwala harbour, with rocky shores, sea breezes and wide ocean views.
Beruwala Lighthouse stands on Barberyn Island, a small rocky island just off the coast of Beruwala. The white tower was completed in 1889, during British rule, to guide ships along this stretch of the west coast, and it still works today. Seen from the beach, it is one of the prettiest landmarks between Colombo and Galle.
Most of the fun is in getting there. Fishing boats from Beruwala harbour make the crossing in around ten minutes, bouncing over the waves past colourful trawlers. Agree on the fare and a time to be collected before you set off. Once on the island, a short path leads up to the lighthouse, and you can wander around the rocky shoreline, find a quiet spot to sit, and watch the waves crash against the rocks.
The island is small, so an hour or so is enough. Whether you can climb the tower depends on the keepers on the day, so treat it as a bonus rather than a given. Wear shoes with grip, since the rocks are uneven and can be slippery, and bring water and sun protection, as there is little shade.
The sea is calmest from around November to April, the best time for the boat ride. Outside that season, crossings can be rough or may not run at all. While you are in Beruwala, look out for the Kechimalai Mosque on the headland, one of the oldest mosques in the country. Bentota's beaches and Brief Garden are a short drive south.
At a glance
- Entry fee: No entry fee for the island. The boat from Beruwala harbour is paid separately; agree the price before you go. Climbing the tower, when allowed, may cost extra.
- Opening hours: Daylight hours, when the sea is calm enough for boats
- Time needed: 1.5 to 2 hours, including the boat ride
- Best time: November to April, in the morning when the sea is calmest
How to get there
Take a fishing boat from Beruwala fishery harbour; the crossing takes about 10 minutes. Beruwala is on the coast road and railway line, about 60km south of Colombo.