11 Best things to do in Weligama
When visiting Weligama, there are plenty of activities and experiences to enjoy. Some of the best things to do in Weligama include:
1. Learn to surf
Weligama has wide sandy beaches and gentle, consistent waves, perfect for beginner surfers to start. The beach is spacious, so there’s always enough room for everyone, making it easy to find a less crowded spot to practice your surfing.
2. Join a yoga class or go on a yoga retreat
The serene and peaceful environment of Weligama makes it an ideal spot to practice yoga. You can join a local yoga class or go on one of the many yoga retreats offered in the area. The combination of beach, sun, and relaxing activities will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
These locations provide yoga classes:
Jamu surf lodge
Layback Weligama
Basecamp
Hangtime hostel
Endorfines
3. Visit Secret Beach in Mirissa
Just a short drive from Mirissa beach, you’ll find a beautiful spot with crystal clear waters and soft sandy shores. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
The beach is no longer a secret, but it remains a stunning spot to visit. Alongside the beach, there is a restaurant and comfortable sunbeds. It’s the perfect place to unwind for a day.
If you rented a tuktuk, it’s recommended to go in the morning since the parking area for tuktuks is small. Additionally, the roads to the secret beach are narrow with ups and downs, making it a bit more challenging if you are not a confident tuktuk driver.
4. Visit Coconut Tree Hill & Parrot Rock in Mirissa
Coconut Tree Hill is arguably the most iconic spot in Mirissa. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean, especially at sunset.
Parrot Rock is a small island located just off the coast of Mirissa. It’s accessible by foot during low tide and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
5. Relax at Weligama Beach
Weligama beach is a beautiful and spacious golden sand beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It’s also an ideal spot to relax and watch the local fishermen in their traditional stilt fishing boats.
6. Taprobane Island
Located just off the coast of Weligama, Taprobane Island is a private island that can be reached by foot during low tide or by boat. You can also stay overnight on the island in its luxurious villa.
7. Day trip to Udawalawe National Park safari
Udawalawe National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, and various bird species. You can book safari tours from Weligama and spend the day spotting animals in their natural habitats.
8. Whale Watching
Weligama /Mirissa is also known as one of the best places in the world for whale watching. You can take a boat tour and witness majestic creatures such as blue whales, sperm whales, and humpback whales.
9. Explore the nearby beaches
There are plenty of beautiful beaches near Weligama that are worth visiting, such as Ahangama Beach, Matara Beach, Madiha Beach, and Unawatuna Beach. Each beach offers its own unique charm and activities, making it a great way to spend a day outside of the town.
10. Spend a day relaxing at Kurumba Bay complex
Kurumba Bay area is situated alongside the ocean and boasts a variety of restaurants and small stores. Visitors can enjoy a beautiful swimming pool free of charge. It’s the perfect spot to relax, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and indulging in delicious food.
11. Visit Galle Fort
Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved colonial-era forts in Asia. It’s located about an hour from Weligama and offers stunning architecture, history, and picturesque views. Spend a day wandering through the fort’s streets, checking out local shops and cafes, and learning about its rich past.
Where to stay in Weligama?
There are various accommodation options available near Weligama beach, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Many of them offer stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach. Some also provide surfing lessons and equipment rentals.
Outpost -co-working and co-living space
Popular option for digital nomads and remote workers. It provides comfortable accommodation with stunning ocean views, high-speed internet, and a community of like-minded individuals.
Where to eat in Weligama?
Weligama is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of options to satisfy any cravings. From traditional Sri Lankan cuisine to international dishes, here are some top recommendations for dining in Weligama:
Moochies Weligama – Brunch & Lunch
This place is fantastic for brunch or lunch. The food is incredibly delicious, and the coffees are like works of art. One of the best brunch places in Sri Lanka !
The Natural Earth Company – Healthy & delicious
This cozy restaurant offers an array of healthy and organic dishes, including vegan and vegetarian options. Simply amazing! One of our favorite places in Weligama.
Sea Salt Society – Beach restaurant
Located right on the beach. They offer brunch/lunch and dinner. Enjoy your meal after morning workout at the beach or while watching the beautiful sunset over the ocean.
NOMAD cafe – Ideal spot for a delightful brunch!
MARU – Poke bowls
When should I visit Weligama?
The best time to visit Weligama beach is from November to April, when the weather is dry and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds during this time. The monsoon season begins in May and can last until September, bringing heavy rains and rough seas.
We visited in mid to late October, which is considered shoulder season. It was a great time to visit as there were fewer crowds, but the weather was already good. Occasionally, there were some afternoon or night rain showers, but for the most part, we had many sunny days.
How long to stay in Weligama?
For the best experience, we recommend staying for about 2-3 days. However, if you want to enjoy the nearby beaches and attractions, extending your stay to 1-2 weeks will give you more time to explore everything.
How to get to Weligama?
The nearest international airport to Weligama is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you can take a taxi or hop on a train or bus to reach Weligama. You can also hire a private car or van for a more comfortable and convenient ride.
The train ride from Colombo to Weligama usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, while by car it’s about 2.5-3 hours, depending on traffic.
Taking the bus is the most economical way to reach Weligama, but it can also be uncomfortable and time-consuming.
We have rented a tuktuk, which has proven to be an excellent mode of transportation for exploring the beautiful south coast. With numerous stunning beaches and exciting activities along the coastline, it is undoubtedly the most convenient and enjoyable way to get around.
