Weligama is a coastal town on the south coast of Sri Lanka and is best known as the place to learn to surf. Its long sandy beach, calm waves and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal destination for both novice surfers and travellers who like to take it a little easier. Compared to places like Mirissa or Ahangama, Weligama feels less crowded, while still offering plenty of nice restaurants, beach bars and fine accommodations. We therefore chose to stay here for a few days. In this blog, we share our best tips for Weligama, so you know exactly what to do here and how to get the most out of your stay.
General information about Sri Lanka
Are you planning your trip to Sri Lanka? Then check out our tips for the best travel period, daily budget and applying for a visa. Find all information on Sri Lanka here.
How do you travel to Weligama?
Located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Weligama is a logical stop on a tour of the coast. The place is easily accessible from Colombo and other popular destinations such as Mirissa, Ahangama, Hiriketiya and Ella. Depending on your itinerary, budget and travel style, there are several ways to travel to Weligama.
From Colombo (airport) to Weligama
Most travellers arrive in Sri Lanka via Bandaranaike International Airport near Colombo. From the airport, it is about 150 kilometres to Weligama. Depending on traffic and means of transport, you will spend an average of 3-4 hours on the road.
The most comfortable option is a private transfer or taxi, which is best arranged in advance through your accommodation or via 12Go. A cheaper and popular option among backpackers is the train. You then travel to Colombo Fort Station first and take the train towards Matara. Weligama has its own train station and the route along the coast is very cool!
Tip: Going for a taxi? Then agree a price in advance to avoid surprises.
From Mirissa, Ahangama or Galle to Weligama
If you are already travelling along the south coast, Weligama is very easy to reach. From Mirissa do you about 15 minutes about, from Ahangama also such a 15 minutes and from Galle approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
You can cover these distances just fine by scooter, tuktuk or taxi. The advantage then is that you can stop wherever you want. If you prefer not to drive yourself, you can use a tuktuk taxi or a PickMe ride. Prices are relatively low and drivers can be found everywhere.
Tip: in Sri Lanka, use the emerging app PickMe-app (similar to Uber) to easily book a tuktuk or taxi with a fixed price. You do need internet for this, so arrange a local SIM card or an e-sim, for example via Airalo or Saily.
From Ella to Weligama
If you come from inland, say from Ella, the landscape changes from green tea fields to beaches and palm trees on the way. By taxi, private transfer or your own tuktuk, you'll be approximately 4 to 5 hours en route. You can easily arrange a taxi or private transfer at your accommodation or via 12Go!
The cheapest option is by bus, often with a change in Wellawaya or Matara, but bear in mind that you will stop often so be on the road for a long time.
Travelling through Sri Lanka by tuktuk
We have our entire journey through Sri Lanka done with a tuktuk and that was without a doubt the most fun way to travel around. It is not only practical, but also an adventure in itself! We hired our tuktuk via tuktukrental.com, an absolute must that makes your trip really extra special. This party has everything well organised and helps you step by step. And with the discount code ‘THOUSANDTRAVELMILES‘ you also get a nice discount! Read more about the renting a tuktuk in Sri Lanka.
Tip: click through the link in this blog to the website of Tuktukrental, then the discount will be applied automatically. Convenient, right?
Tips for transport in Weligama
Weligama is an elongated coastal town and therefore slightly less compact than, say, Mirissa. Many places are still within walking distance, but if you want to visit several beaches, surfspots or cafes, then transport is handy. Luckily, there are plenty of options!
- Tuktuk: For short distances, a tuktuk taxi is by far the most common mode of transport. You simply stop one along the road or arrange one through your accommodation. Always agree on a price in advance to avoid discussions afterwards. In Mirissa, drivers also drive via the emerging app PickMe (Sri Lanka), similar to Uber, which is especially useful if you want to know in advance what a ride will cost and prefer not to negotiate.
- Scooter hire: Renting a scooter is ideal if you like a bit more freedom. With it, you can easily drive along the coast towards Ahangama, Midigama or Mirissa and stop wherever you like. You can hire scooters along the main road and at many accommodations. Check the condition of the scooter beforehand and always take photos and a short film.
- Car with driver: For longer distances or if you are travelling with several people, a car with driver is the best option. Local drivers know the routes well and will stop without problems if you want to see something along the way.
Tip: To use PickMe, you need internet. Therefore, arrange a local SIM card or opt for an e-sim, for example via Airalo or Saily. We have had good experiences with both parties.
Read also: Sri Lanka travel itinerary: complete itinerary for 2, 3 or 4 weeks
Read also: Tuktuk hire in Sri Lanka: tips, costs and our experience!
What to do in Weligama
Weligama is best known as Sri Lanka's surf spot, but there is more to do than just catch waves. The atmosphere is laidback, the pace is slow and everything takes place along a long coastline. We therefore found it ideal to combine with Ahangama.
1. Surfing at Weligama Beach
Weligama Beach is without doubt one of the best places in Sri Lanka to learn to surf. The beach slopes slowly into the sea, the waves are small and there are few rocks. This makes it ideal for beginners. Along the beach are dozens of surf schools and rental shops where you can rent a board or book a lesson without booking.
A surf lesson of about 1.5 hours costs on average LKR 6,000-8,000 per person (€16 - €22 depending on the rate), including board.
Tip: We only rented a board at Lucky Surfers and paid LKR 1,000 (€2.75, depending on the rate) for an hour.
2. Chilling out on Weligama Beach
Even if you don't surf, Weligama Beach is a nice place to spend a day. The beach is long and wide, so you will always find a quiet spot. You can lay down your towel or rent a lounger at one of the beach bars. Along the coast you will find plenty of cafés and restaurants where you can go all day for breakfast, lunch or a smoothie.
3. Turtle Beach & Coconut Beach
Just off Kadabeddagama Road are two quiet little beaches that remain under the radar of many travellers: Turtle Beach and Coconut Beach. On Google Maps, they are not always clearly marked, but that is precisely what makes them extra chill. You sometimes see cows grazing along the beach and dogs cooling off in the shade. With a bit of luck, you'll also spot sea turtles in the sea from the shore. Bring some water and snacks with you just to be sure, as there are not always stalls around here.
4. Watching sunsets along the coast
Weligama is known for its beautiful sunsets. Because the beach faces west, you can see the sun sink straight into the sea here. Especially at the end of the day, the beach comes alive and is ideal for catching the last waves.
5. Day trip to Midigama
Less than a 10-minute drive from Weligama is Midigama, a smaller surf town with a slightly quieter and more local character. The surfspots here are especially suitable for advanced surfers, but even if you don't surf, it's fun to have a look around. Midigama has some fine cafés, quiet beaches and a less touristy atmosphere than Weligama itself. Perfect for a day of touring and chilling out!
6. Explore the popular Ahangama
Ahangama is on the other side of Weligama and has become increasingly popular in recent years. Here you will find trendy cafés, yoga studios, boutique shops and fine restaurants. It is a nice place to spend a morning or afternoon, but many people also stay here! We chose to stay in Weligama and drive back and forth from time to time. This is perfectly doable as a scooter or tuktuk will get you there within 10 to 15 minutes.
7. Visit Fisherman's Stilts
OK, fair's fair: we hesitated whether to include this spot in the blog. Just outside Weligama, you'll find one of Sri Lanka's most famous statues: fishermen balancing on wooden poles above the sea. Super cool and something they've been doing like this for centuries. However, this place has since become a major tourist attraction and you have to pay to take photos. We had a nice experience but we also hear many bad stories where people have been forced to pay money. So mainly see for yourself if you really want to see this and see it mainly as a short stop during a drive along the coast.
8. Make a day trip to Mirissa
Less than a 15-minute drive from Weligama is Mirissa, one of the most famous beach towns on the south coast. This place is best known for whale watching, the iconic Coconut Tree Hill and the laid-back atmosphere along Mirissa Beach. Mirissa is compact, making it ideal for a short day trip without feeling like you're in a hurry. Curious about what there is to do? Check out our tips for Mirissa.
9. Explore the historic Galle Fort
A completely different atmosphere can be found in Galle, about an hour's drive from Weligama. The historic Galle Fort is definitely worth a visit and is not on the UNESCO World Heritage List for nothing. Inside the old city walls, you can stroll past colonial buildings, narrow streets, boutiques and cosy cafés. The Dutch influences are still clearly visible here, making this a perfect day trip.
Tip: visit Galle Fort early in the morning or just later in the day. As the fort is fully walled, there is little wind and it is very warm!
From Weligama, you can travel to Galle Fort within an hour by bus, scooter or (your own) tuktuk. If you have some space in your schedule, it would be nice to stay here for a night. And if you do stay here for a night see if the boutique hotel Fort Bazaar fits your budget!
Tip: Going by private transport? Then you can go for 300 LKR (€0.83 depending on the exchange rate) parking at the lighthouse.
10. Other fun things to do in and around Weligama
Have you already seen the main highlights of Weligama or are you staying a bit longer? Then there are plenty of additional activities and excursions to fill your days further. Other fun things to do in and around Weligama include:
- Driving around the coast: One of the best things to do, if you ask us, in Weligama is to hire a scooter or tuktuk and follow the coastline. Drive towards Mirissa or just towards Ahangama and stop at small beaches, viewpoints and local eateries along the way.
- Yoga & wellness: In and around Weligama, you will find several fine yoga spots, often small-scale and approachable. One popular option is Soul & Surf in Ahangama, where you can take individual yoga classes.
- Relax by the pool at Kai Beach Club: Not in the mood for sand between your toes? Then Kai Beach Club is a nice change. Spending 2000 LKR (€5.40 depending on the exchange rate) per person gets you free access to the pool.
- Visit the Saturday market at Cafe Ceylon: If you are in the area at the weekend, the Saturday market near Cafe Ceylon is fun to catch. Don't expect a big market, but a cosy setting with stalls, food and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Sunset at Ahangama Lighthouse: It is a lot less crowded here than at well-known beach bars and you have a beautiful view over the coast as the sun slowly sets.
- Admire the Kushtaraja Gala Buddha statue: Fancy a bit of culture? Then take time to go to Kushtaraja Gala. This is a Buddhist statue carved into rocks. The statue is centuries old, impressive and one of the finest examples of Mahayana Buddhist art in Sri Lanka.
Tips for good restaurants in Weligama
Weligama is becoming increasingly popular and you will find many different types of restaurants. From local Sri Lankan cuisines, trendy cafes, good coffee and restaurants with sea views. Here are our favourite restaurants:
- Maru Weligama: Maru is a popular one and the menu is varied, including smoothie bowls, good coffee and light lunch dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed and it is a nice place to start your day quietly.
- Meyola: Meyola is nice place towards the busier street. You have plenty of choice here so there's always something in between. The atmosphere is relaxed, the food is good and ideal for both lunch and dinner.
- Nōche Kitchen: Fancy a good burger and a cosy evening? Then Nōche Kitchen is the place to be. This place is known for its good burgers and nice atmosphere, especially in the evenings. A nice change if you want something different from rice and curry, and perfect for a relaxed dinner with a drink.
- Ant's Restaurant: Ant's Restaurant is a simple but popular spot for local Sri Lankan dishes. Don't expect luxury, but do expect delicious curries at a good price.
- The Cliff: The Cliff, as the name suggests, is located in a beautiful spot by the sea. The view makes this restaurant extra special, especially around sunset. You can go here for drinks and good food!
- Hangtime Cafe: A popular spot among surfers and travellers. Hangtime Cafe is known for good coffee, breakfasts and a relaxed vibe.
- Nomad Cafe & Boutique: Nomad is a fine combination of café and boutique. You'll find good coffee, breakfast and lunch dishes in a stylish setting. Nice to pop in, even if you just feel like a coffee stop.
Always want to know where to eat in Sri Lanka, even on the go? With our Sri Lanka Google Maps card you have all our restaurant tips, cafés and hotspots conveniently to hand. Ideal when travelling, so you never have to spend a long time looking for a good place.
Our favourite addresses in Weligama
You also have plenty of choice in Weligama when it comes to fine accommodation. From small-scale guesthouses to surf camps and quiet hotels just outside the crowds. Weligama is also a place where many travellers stay a bit longer, so you have plenty of great accommodation where you can and want to stay longer. We often book last minute ourselves and therefore always save a few good spots in our Booking.com list. These were our favourite addresses in Weligama:
- Surf Lavender: Surf Lavender is a fine, small-scale accommodation with a relaxed atmosphere. Located a short distance from the beach, it is popular with surfers and travellers who like to meet other people, without feeling like a big hostel.
- Weligama Bay House: This is an atmospheric accommodation with a quiet location, yet close to the beach and restaurants. Ideal if you are looking for just a little more peace and quiet, but still want everything within easy reach.
- Tinara River Inn: Tinara River Inn is located on a river and is ideal if you want to stay a bit further from the busy beach. A fine choice for those who love nature and silence.
- Temple Tree Resort: Fine and well-kept hotel with spacious rooms. The people are friendly and it all feels just a bit more luxurious, without being overly chic.
- Lucky's Surf Camp: Lucky's Surf Camp is a nice option if you are in Weligama to surf and enjoy meeting other travellers. The atmosphere is social and relaxed, and activities are organised regularly. Ideal for solo travellers or backpackers who like to live in surf mode for a few days. We found this a really nice place!
- Komorebi Weligama: this is a small-scale, stylish accommodation with a quiet and minimalist feel. It is located just outside the hustle and bustle of the city centre, allowing you to really unwind here, while the beach and surfspots are still easily accessible.
Weligama is popular, especially in high season and during the surfing months. Do you have a specific accommodation in mind or would you like to stay several nights in the same place? Then it's smart to book your stay in advance!
How many days do you need in Weligama?
We recommend three to five nights staying in Weligama. By three nights you'll have plenty of time to surf, explore the beach and discover some spots. Stay four or five nights, then you have more space to quietly alternate between beach days, surfing, trips towards Mirissa or Ahangama and moments when you just don't need to plan anything.
Frequently asked questions about Weligama
Weligama is still often skipped but we found it a lovely place. We therefore received quite a few questions and collected and compiled them below. Do you have a different question? Feel free to send us a message via Instagram!
1. Is Weligama a good place to surf?
Yes. Weligama is the best place on Sri Lanka's south coast to learn to surf due to its wide bay and small waves.
2. Where can I surf in Weligama?
You surf mainly at Weligama Beach, along the main beach. Here you will find several surf schools and rentals. So you can easily rent a board or book a lesson on the spot.
3. Which surf schools in Weligama are suitable for beginners?
There are many good surf schools in Weligama, but we have Good experiences with Lucky's Surf School. They work with small groups, take their time and adapt the lesson to your level. Ideal if you are just starting out or are still unsure in the water.
4. Is Weligama suitable as a beach holiday?
Weligama is above all a active beach destination. The beach is perfect for surfing, hiking and relaxing, but it is not the most beautiful beach in Sri Lanka. If you're looking for idyllic bays and clear blue waters, you're better off taking a trip towards Hiriketiya or other beaches along the south coast.
5. What is the beach like in Weligama?
Weligama literally means sand village and that is reflected in the beach: a long, wide sandy beach with shallow water. The beach slopes gradually, which is ideal for beginner surfers. Don't expect turquoise colours or coral reefs, but plenty of space and a relaxed atmosphere.
6. Is Weligama fun if you don't want to surf (only)?
Sure. Although surfing is the biggest draw, Weligama has more to offer. You'll find fine cafés, yoga, quiet beach days, beautiful coastal drives and fun day trips to places in the area. The pace is slow, which makes it a nice place to really land or just end your trip
7. When is the best travel time for Weligama?
The best time to visit Weligama is from December to March. During these months, the weather is mostly dry and sunny, with temperatures between 23 and 32 degrees. This is also the best season for surfing on the south coast.
8. Where can I rent a scooter in Weligama?
You often rent a scooter via your accommodation, but there are also good rental companies in the village. We hear many positive stories about Hello Rent and Let's Ride. These addresses can also be found in our Sri Lanka Google Maps card. Always check the scooter beforehand, take photos and never hand over your passport as a deposit if asked.
9. How do I book a private transfer from the airport to Weligama?
The easiest option is through your accommodation, they often arrange reliable drivers. If you want to arrange it yourself in advance, then 12Go Asia a fine option. We use this platform very often ourselves!
10. Can I go whale watching from Weligama?
Whale watching isn't something you do directly in Weligama, but it is from Mirissa, which is at about 15 to 20 minutes' drive lies. This is where most whale watching tours leave. Keep in mind the season: you have the greatest chance between November and March.
11. Is Weligama suitable for backpacken?
Yes, Weligama is certainly suitable for backpackers. You'll find affordable guesthouses and hostels, plenty of social spots and a fine mix of relaxation and activity. It is also a convenient stop during a tour of the south coast.
12. Is Weligama fun?
Weligama is a village on Sri Lanka's south coast and best known as the place to learn to surf. However, we think it is much more than that! You will find cosy beach cafés, sandy beaches, beautiful nature and you can take fun excursions nearby. For us, Weligama is therefore high on the list of the nicest places on the coast.
13. What is the difference between Weligama and Mirissa?
Weligama is generally quieter and especially ideal for learning to surf (for the first time), while Mirissa is more compact and touristy with more well-known highlights. Weligama is all about the long sandy beach and surf schools along the bay, making it easy to stay in surf mode for a few days without feeling crowded.
Mirissa feels livelier: you'll find more beach bars, restaurants close by and famous spots like Coconut Tree Hill and Parrot Rock. Also, most whale watching tours depart from Mirissa (in season), whereas from Weligama you can drive faster along the coast towards Ahangama and Midigama.
Looking for a laid-back surf spot to learn to surf and do the occasional getaway? Choose Weligama. Do you mainly want to tick off highlights, more hustle and bustle and a compact village where everything is close by? Then Mirissa is a better fit.
Plan your trip with our Sri Lanka map!
Plan your ideal itinerary through Sri Lanka with our handy Google Maps card. You will find our favourite restaurants, places of interest and hidden gems all in one place. Handy on the go, so you don't miss a thing and always have a good address to hand.
Weligama may be best known as a surf spot, but it is much more than that. Its relaxed pace, long beaches, fine coffee shops and location on the south coast make it a place where you will soon stay longer than planned. Whether you come to learn to surf, to take a break or to explore the coast further it's a place you'll definitely want to add to your tour of Sri Lanka. Hopefully our tips will help you discover Weligama your way and get the most out of your stay. Still have questions or want us to think along with you about your itinerary? Feel free to send us a message at Instagram, we are happy to think with you.
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