Snorkeling with turtles in Polhena and Mirissa

Where to snorkel with turtles

The lagoon behind the outer reef at Polhena is shallow, calm and home to green and hawksbill turtles all year. It is a short swim from the sand, with standing depth in places, which is why families and first-timers love it. We also snorkel from Madiha Beach, just along the coast, and choose between the two by visibility on the day.

You can snorkel on your own, but a guide helps in a few ways: they know where the turtles are feeding, they keep you off the fragile reef, and they stay with you in the water.

The best time of day

Mornings. The water is usually calmer, the beach is quieter, and turtles tend to be more relaxed. Our day tours start every 30 minutes from 7:00 am to 9:30 am, so you can pick the slot that suits you. Weekends are busier on the beach, so a weekday morning is the quietest.

Our night snorkeling starts at 6:30 pm, and shows you the lagoon in a different way, by torchlight.

How to behave around turtles

• Keep a respectful distance and never chase a turtle.
• Do not touch, hold or feed them.
• Stay off the coral and the seagrass: kicking raises sand and damages the reef.
• Wear a life jacket if you are not confident, and put sun protection on before you get in.
• Let the turtle come to you: they surface to breathe regularly, and that is your moment.

What is included and what to bring

We give you a mask, snorkel, fins and a life jacket, and the guide stays with you in the water. Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection and a rash vest if you burn easily. We bring you back for a cup of tea.

Free tuk-tuk pickup is included from hotels within about 5 km and from Mirissa.

Polhena or Mirissa?

Mirissa is known for whale-watching boats and beach bars, while the turtle lagoon is at Polhena, a short ride along the coast. They are close enough to combine: stay in Mirissa and we pick you up. Our snorkeling page has every option and price.