Unawatuna: Scuba Diving Shipwrecks & Coral Reefs with Guide

Summary

Scuba dive Unawatuna’s shipwrecks & reefs with local guides

You’ll slip into Unawatuna’s warm waters with a local guide and learn scuba basics before heading out to explore real WWII shipwrecks and lively coral reefs. Expect laughter during training, silent awe underwater, and GoPro photos to remember it all by. It’s not just about fish—it’s about feeling part of another world for an afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

We met our instructor, Sahan, right by the beach in Unawatuna—he had that sun-bleached hair and easy smile you only get from living half your life underwater. I was a bit jittery (first time nerves), but he just handed me the wetsuit and said, “Don’t worry, we go slow.” The salt in the air mixed with coconut oil from someone’s lunch nearby. We started with a quick theory lesson under a palm tree—honestly, I barely listened because I was watching tiny crabs scuttle past my feet.

Training in the shallow water felt weird at first—breathing through the regulator is not what you expect. Sahan showed us how to clear our masks (I messed it up twice; he just grinned and did it again). Once we got the hang of it, we headed out to one of the old WWII shipwrecks. The water was cooler than I thought, kind of silky against my arms. Fish darted everywhere—blue ones mostly, but there was this one fat orange guy who kept staring at me like I owed him something.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would be down there. Just bubbles and muffled heartbeats. Sahan pointed out some coral that looked almost neon under the light—he tapped his tank to get my attention when a turtle floated by (I nearly lost my mouthpiece from grinning). When we surfaced, I realized I’d been holding my breath in excitement half the time. They took GoPro photos—I look ridiculous in mine but whatever, proof that I did it.

Afterwards, we rinsed off in these open-air changing rooms while some local kids laughed at us for still wearing our fins on land. My hair smelled like salt for days after. If you’re thinking about a day trip to Unawatuna for scuba diving, just do it—even if you’re nervous or clumsy like me. There’s something about seeing those old wrecks up close that sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scuba diving training and exploration

• Theory lesson on scuba diving
• Training in shallow water
• Dive with PADI certified instructors
• Explore ship wrecks and coral reefs
• Use provided diving equipment
• Enjoy photos taken with GoPro

Top questions

Is scuba diving in Unawatuna suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners are welcome—the tour includes a theory lesson and shallow water training before diving.

Are certified instructors included in the Unawatuna scuba diving experience?

Yes, PADI certified instructors guide every dive and provide training.

What equipment is provided for scuba diving in Unawatuna?

All necessary scuba equipment is included as part of your experience.

Can I choose different dive sites around Unawatuna?

You can choose from over 15 dive sites including shipwrecks and coral reefs.

Are photos included during the Unawatuna scuba dive?

Yes, GoPro photos are taken during your dive and included afterwards.

Is public transportation available near the dive center?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Are there any health restrictions for this activity?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes all scuba equipment, a theory lesson under palm trees, shallow water training with PADI certified instructors, guidance throughout your dive at selected sites around Unawatuna—including shipwrecks or coral reefs—and GoPro photos to keep as memories before heading back salty-haired but happy.