Great — here are romantic coastal getaway ideas near Galle (Sri Lanka), with what makes each one special, travel time from Galle, and a few stay/activity suggestions so you can pick the vibe you want.

Quick note on travel: Galle is the hub for the south coast — most beach towns below are a short drive or train ride away (5–60 minutes depending on destination). Sources cited for key facts are shown after each item.

1. Unawatuna — intimate beach, snorkeling, relaxed dinners on the sand

• Why go: soft sheltered bay, coral and snorkeling close to shore, plenty of beachfront restaurants and sunset walks — a classic, easy romantic choice just outside Galle. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• From Galle: ~5–8 km / ~10–15 min by car. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Romantic ideas: private beachfront candlelit dinner, snorkel trips to nearby coral, sunset at Jungle Beach (short tuk‑tuk ride).
• Where to stay: intimate boutique hotels and villas along the bay.

2. Mirissa — whale/dolphin watching, dramatic sunsets (Coconut Tree Hill)

• Why go: island/boat trips for early-morning whale and dolphin tours, pretty headlands and sunset viewpoints (Coconut Tree Hill is iconic). Great for couples who like active mornings and beach bars at night. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• From Galle: ~30–40 km / ~30–45 min by car (coastal train also available). Mirissa has a rail stop on the south coastal line. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Romantic ideas: private whale- or dolphin‑watching tour at sunrise, beach picnic at Coconut Tree Hill, seafood dinner by the water.
• Best time for whale watching (higher chances): peak season around November–April. (Reddit.com)

3. Weligama — surfing lessons & calm nearby bays

• Why go: mellow surf breaks for beginners, long sandy bay for relaxed strolls and beachfront cafés — good for couples who want an active (surf) day plus chilled evenings.
• From Galle: ~20–30 minutes by car; close enough for a day trip from Galle. (Typical local estimates for south-coast travel times.) (privatetraveldesigner.in)
• Romantic ideas: private surf lesson together, sunset drinks on a rooftop bar, explore nearby secret coves.

4. Habaraduwa / KK Beach (boutique beachfront hideaway)

• Why go: small, modern boutique hotels on quieter stretches of the coast — great if you want a stylish, more private beachfront stay with ocean views. KK Beach is an example of the kind of intimate, art-forward boutique hotel available near Galle. (thetimes.co.uk)
• From Galle: around 10–20 minutes by car, depending on exact location. (thetimes.co.uk)
• Romantic ideas: book an ocean‑facing suite or penthouse, spa treatments, long private beach walks at sunset.

5. Galle Fort (coastal town stay with historic charm)

• Why go: if you want history + romance, stay inside or near Galle Fort — cobbled streets, colonial-era buildings, boutique guesthouses, restaurants with ocean views. Not a sandy-beach escape, but extremely atmospheric and very walkable for couples.
• From central Galle: already there — perfect if you want coastal views plus culture.
• Romantic ideas: stay in a restored colonial guesthouse, private guided walk at golden hour, rooftop cocktails overlooking the ocean.

6. Tangalle / Kalametiya (luxury villas and secluded beaches — farther afield)

• Why go: quieter, more private beaches and larger villas; ideal for couples seeking seclusion and upscale villa stays. (These are a longer drive from Galle but popular for honeymoons and privacy.) (privatetraveldesigner.in)
• From Galle: typically 1–2 hours by car depending on which part of Tangalle you choose.
• Romantic ideas: private villa with a butler/chef, wildlife and birding trips, beachside yoga.

Practical tips for a romantic stay

• Best season: south‑coast high season and calmer seas are generally November–April (best for swimming and higher chances for whale/dolphin sightings). Expect more crowds and higher rates in December–March. (Reddit.com)
• Getting around: short taxis/tuk‑tuks for near trips; private car or driver for multiple stops or later departures. Coastal trains run between Galle and Mirissa/Weligama but can be crowded — useful for scenic daytime travel. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Book experiences in advance (private dinners, whale tours, spa appointments) during Nov–Apr to secure prime times.

If you’d like, I can:

• Narrow choices to a particular vibe (boutique luxury, secluded villa, active/adventure, historical-romantic), or
• Suggest 3–5 specific hotels and check current availability and typical rates for your travel dates (I’ll look up live availability if you give dates).