12 Things to Do in Weligama and Around Sri Lanka's South Coast

Weligama is a laid-back fishing and surf town on Sri Lanka’s south coast. It also makes a good base for exploring the whole region. Mirissa’s beaches are next door, and Galle’s old fort is within an easy day trip. Here’s what our guests enjoy most, both in town and a short ride away.

In Weligama

1. Take a surf lesson in the bay

The wide, sandy Weligama Bay is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to learn to surf. Book a lesson, rent a soft-top and catch your first waves. Our beginner’s guide to surfing in Weligama covers the details.

2. Watch the sunset over the bay

In the late afternoon the bay turns gold. The fishing boats come in and the surfers catch their last waves. Grab a king coconut from a roadside stall and find a spot on the sand.

3. See Taprobane Island

The tiny island in Weligama Bay has a villa that once belonged to a French count. It’s one of the most photographed views on the south coast. At low tide you can wade out towards it.

4. Visit the Kushtarajagala rock carving

This large, ancient figure is carved into the rock face just outside town. It’s peaceful, rarely busy and an easy tuk-tuk ride away.

5. Eat fresh seafood

Weligama is a working fishing town, and the seafood is excellent. At Surfing Life our beachfront restaurant serves fresh, simply grilled fish in an open-air setting. Our second restaurant has a more refined evening menu of homemade and international dishes, plus cocktails.

Short trips from Weligama

6. Go whale watching from Mirissa

Mirissa is just east of Weligama and one of the best places in the world to see blue whales. Boats leave early in the morning during the south coast season, roughly November to April. Pick an operator that follows responsible whale-watching guidelines.

7. Climb Coconut Tree Hill

This small headland in Mirissa is covered in palm trees and looks over the ocean. It’s at its best at sunrise, before the crowds arrive.

8. Find Secret Beach

Tucked behind Mirissa, this small cove has calm, clear water when the sea is flat. It’s good for a swim and a slower afternoon.

9. Watch the stilt fishermen

Between Weligama and Galle, around Koggala and Ahangama, you’ll see the famous stilt fishermen perched on poles above the water. Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light.

10. Explore Galle Fort

The UNESCO-listed Galle Fort is about an hour west by road. Walk the ramparts, browse the boutiques and cafés in the old Dutch-era streets, and stay for sunset at the lighthouse.

11. Day-trip to Hiriketiya

Head east and you’ll reach Hiriketiya, a horseshoe-shaped bay with a relaxed café scene and a friendly wave. It makes a great change of scene for a day.

12. Ride the coastal train

Weligama is on the coastal railway line. Riding the train along the ocean is cheap and scenic, and it’s a very Sri Lankan way to visit Galle or Matara.

Getting around

Tuk-tuks are the easiest way to get around the south coast. Agree on the fare before you set off, or use a ride-hailing app where it’s available. Scooters are popular too, but only ride if you’re experienced and properly licensed. For longer trips, we’re happy to help arrange a driver.

Make Surfing Life your base

All of the above is within reach of our guest house. Come back after a day out to a hammock in the garden, a cold drink and dinner at one of our two restaurants. Browse our rooms and send us your dates. We’ll confirm availability and rates within 24 hours.