Idyllic Mirissa is one of the loveliest southern resorts, a vision of tropical bliss with its golden sanded crescent beach framed with an arc of coconut palms, and a buzzing harbour full of colourful boats. It is the best base for seeing the Blue whales, which swim past Dondra Head. The sea here is also a favourite haunt for megapods of Spinner dolphins, and as many as 400-500 dolphins can be seen on a good day.