Things To Do
in Weligama
Weligama is a laid-back coastal town on Sri Lanka's southern coast, renowned for its long sandy bay and beginner-friendly surf. The town is fringed with palm trees, fishing boats, and a relaxed vibe that makes it easy to slow down and soak up ocean views. It sits close to Mirissa, Galle, and the hinterland, making day trips simple and rewarding.
Expect warm tropical weather, fresh seafood, and stunning sunsets over turquoise water.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake to the soft hum of the sea and a breeze that carries the scent of salt and frangipani. Ease into the day with a slow breakfast at a cafe by the shore, savoring fresh fruit and locally roasted coffee.
Stretch along the sand as gentle waves coax you into a relaxed rhythm. Take a short stroll to watch traditional fishermen mend their nets and greet warm locals.
Sunset paints the horizon in pink and gold as you savor a seaside curry at a bamboo shack. Conclude the day with a quiet walk along the shore, letting the night air settle the mind.
Begin with a morning stretch on the beach and a cup of strong Sri Lankan tea. Head to a nearby cafe for egg hoppers and sambol, soaking in the laid-back rhythm of the town.
Join a beginner surf lesson or watch surfers carve small waves along the protected bay. Linger over a plate of fresh grilled fish with lime and a cool coconut drink at a beachside shack.
Stroll the palm-lined promenade as street musicians begin to play and the air cools. Share a plate of kothu roti and watch the fishing boats return silhouetted against the sunset.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi or tuk-tuk ride (short distance) | $3-8 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal vibe and beginner-friendly surfing
- Close to Mirissa and Galle for day trips and variety
- Seasonal rains and humidity can be high
- Nightlife is low-key compared to larger cities
- "Ayubowan" - Hello / May you live long
- "Istuti" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Maaf karanna" - Sorry
- "Oyā English kiyanawā da?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Weligama
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic early-morning scenes of fishermen atop wooden stilts, with ergonomic silhouettes against the sunrise or calm sea.
Long, sweeping shoreline with a pastel sky; perfect for wide-angle sunrise photography and long exposures of gentle waves.
Historic fortress with commanding sea views, old cannons, and narrow lanes to capture dramatic coastal perspectives.
Cliffside vantage near Ahangama offering dramatic waves, surfers, and dramatic sunset silhouettes.
Food in Weligama
Weligama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A assortment of curries served with red rice; a staple meal found virtually everywhere in Weligama and the surrounding towns.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught fish simmered in coconut milk, spices, and curry leaves; best enjoyed at seaside shacks with a view of the water.
Spicy, tangy stir-fried prawns often served with white or red rice; a popular seafood option along the coast.
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour; egg hopper is a common breakfast or snack choice, especially at beach cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early mornings are ideal for selecting the day’s freshest catch and sampling prepared seafood from small stalls.
Casual stalls along the coast offer fried fish cutlets, kothu roti, and spicy bites that are perfect for a quick snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples: shoulders and knees covered, remove hats before entering sacred spaces, and show respect in all interactions.
A gentle, friendly greeting is appreciated; public displays of affection are uncommon in rural areas. Ask permission before taking photos of people.
Remove shoes when entering homes and certain shops or religious sites; use your right hand for giving and receiving items when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Weligama
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in smaller eateries and 10-15% in nicer restaurants is common if service charge is not included.
Cash in Sri Lankan rupees is widely used; many places accept cards at larger hotels and restaurants. ATMs are common in Weligama, Matara, and Galle; some smaller shops may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
May through September can bring the southwest monsoon with warm humidity and occasional heavy showers; mornings are often sunny, but expect sporadic rain. Surfers find reliable waves on the coast; plan indoor or shaded activities for afternoons.
November through February is generally drier and slightly cooler with pleasant evenings; this is a popular time for beachgoers and wildlife viewing (whale watching in nearby Mirissa is peak in season).
October and April offer calmer seas and fewer crowds; good for general sightseeing, temple visits, and scenic coastal walks with comfortable temperatures.
Weligama at Night
Hiking in Weligama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate forest trails near Galle with birdwatching and occasional waterfalls; great for a half-day hike from the coast.
Sri Lanka's premier tropical rainforest; multi-hour to full-day hikes through biodiversity-rich trails; a longer drive from Weligama but highly rewarding.
Airports
How to reach Weligama by plane.
Main international gateway to Sri Lanka, about 140-180 km from Weligama with road and rail connections.
Small domestic airport near Galle for regional flights; limited international service and primarily connects to Colombo and other domestic destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority community involved in fishing, trading, and small businesses.
Smaller communities with varied cultural backgrounds.
A growing mix of long-term visitors and seasonal workers attracted by the beaches and surf culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A defining local sport; Weligama Bay is a popular beginner-friendly surfing spot.
Widely played and watched; common in parks and beaches during evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Weligama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for lentil curries, vegetable curries, chickpea dishes, and clearly labeled veggie curries. Ask for no fish sauce or prawns on dishes when possible, and request coconut milk or water as a substitute if needed.