2 km (bay)0.5-1.5 meters (avg)

Weligama Beach

Weligama, meaning "sandy village" in Sinhala, is a wide horseshoe-shaped bay on Sri Lanka's southern coast that has earned a reputation as one of the best places in the world to learn to surf. Located about 145 kilometers south of Colombo between Mirissa and Matara, this expansive beach offers long, gentle, rolling waves that break evenly across the sandy bottom, creating ideal conditions for beginners to catch their first waves and for intermediate surfers to develop their skills.

The surfing culture in Weligama is infectious. Dozens of surf schools and board rental shops line the beach road, staffed by enthusiastic local and international instructors who guide hundreds of new surfers into the water each day during peak season. The waves here are remarkably forgiving, rarely exceeding head height and breaking over a wide, sandy seabed with no dangerous rocks or reef underneath. This makes Weligama the safest and most accessible surf beach on the south coast.

Beyond the surf, Weligama is famous for its iconic stilt fishermen, who perch on wooden poles planted in the shallow waters and cast their lines in a practice that has been carried out for generations. While the tradition has become partly tourist-oriented, it remains a striking sight and one of the most photographed scenes in Sri Lanka. The bay is also home to Taprobane Island, a tiny private island topped with a colonial villa, sitting just offshore and adding a touch of romance to the already beautiful panorama. The town itself retains a genuine local character, with a busy fish market, traditional eateries, and a warmth that reflects the meaning of its name.

Things to Do

Beginner Surf Lessons

LKR 4,000 - 7,000 per lesson

Take a surf lesson with one of the many certified surf schools on the beach. Most lessons last 1.5-2 hours and include board, rash guard, and instruction.

Surf Board Rental

LKR 800 - 1,500 per hour; LKR 2,000 - 4,000 per day

Rent a soft-top or hardboard by the hour or day from the numerous rental shops lining the beach road. Soft-tops are recommended for beginners.

Photograph Stilt Fishermen

Free to watch; LKR 500-1,000 tip expected if photographing up close

Watch and photograph the iconic stilt fishermen who perch on wooden poles in the shallow waters, particularly at the eastern end of the bay near Koggala.

Visit Taprobane Island

Free (viewing from beach)

Admire the photogenic Taprobane Island from the beach, or wade out during low tide to see it up close. The island is privately owned but the approach is memorable.

Fish Market Visit

Free

Explore the bustling Weligama fish market early in the morning to see the daily catch being auctioned. A fascinating glimpse into local life and culture.

Day Trip to Mirissa for Whale Watching

LKR 7,500 - 15,000 for whale watching; LKR 500 for tuk-tuk to Mirissa

Weligama is just 10 minutes from Mirissa, making it easy to join an early morning whale watching tour and be back for afternoon surfing.

Beach Tips

The best waves for beginners are in the center of the bay. More experienced surfers should head to the eastern or western ends where the waves have more shape.
Take a surf lesson in the morning when conditions are typically calmer and glassier. Afternoon winds can make the water choppier.
If you plan to surf for multiple days, negotiate a multi-day board rental deal. Most shops offer significant discounts for weekly rentals.
For authentic stilt fishermen photos, visit the eastern end of the bay near Koggala around 5-6 AM or 4-5 PM when they actually fish.
Try the local rice and curry at small family-run places on the inland side of the main road. They offer better value and more authentic food than beachfront restaurants.
Combine Weligama with Mirissa for the perfect south coast experience: surf in Weligama during the day and enjoy Mirissa's nightlife in the evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Weligama good for beginner surfers?

Weligama is widely considered the best beginner surf spot in Sri Lanka and one of the best in Asia. The gentle, rolling waves break evenly over a sandy bottom with no rocks or reef. Dozens of surf schools offer professional instruction. Most beginners are standing up on their first lesson.

How much do surf lessons cost in Weligama?

A single surf lesson of 1.5-2 hours costs approximately LKR 4,000-7,000 (about $12-22 USD). Multi-lesson packages offer better value. Board rental alone costs LKR 800-1,500 per hour or LKR 2,000-4,000 per day. Most surf schools include the board and rash guard with the lesson fee.

Are the stilt fishermen in Weligama real?

Stilt fishing is a genuine traditional practice in the Galle-Matara coastal area. However, many of the fishermen you see today near tourist areas are posing for photographs in exchange for tips rather than actually fishing. For more authentic scenes, visit early morning or late afternoon when some fishermen still practice the traditional method.

Can you swim at Weligama Beach?

Yes, swimming is possible at Weligama, especially in the center of the bay where the water is calmer. However, be aware of surfers in the water and the occasional stronger currents. The sandy bottom and gradual depth make it relatively safe for swimming during the calm season.

How does Weligama compare to Mirissa for surfing?

Weligama is significantly better for beginners with its gentle, forgiving waves and sandy bottom. Mirissa's point break is steeper and more powerful, better suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. Many surfers start in Weligama and progress to Mirissa's break as their skills improve.

Quick Facts

Beach Length2 km (bay)

Wave Height0.5-1.5 meters (avg)

Water Temperature27-29°C year-round

Distance from Colombo145 km (3-4 hours)

Surf LevelBeginner to intermediate

Bottom TypeSandy - safe for falls

Sand ColorGolden

Crowd Levelmoderate

Best Time to Visit

NovemberDecemberJanuaryFebruaryMarch

The southwest monsoon brings the best surf conditions from November to March, with consistent swells and offshore morning winds. December through February is the peak season with the most reliable waves and best weather.

Facilities

Numerous surf schools and board rental shopsBeachfront restaurants and cafesBudget to mid-range guesthouses along the beach roadATMs and small shops in Weligama townTuk-tuk stand near the main beach areaYoga studios and wellness centers

LifeguardsNo

Natural ShadeYes

Safety Info

Currents

Mild to moderate currents in the bay. The sandy bottom and gradual depth make conditions forgiving for beginners. Stronger currents can occur at the ends of the bay near the headlands.

The sandy bottom makes wipeouts safer than reef breaks, but always be aware of other surfers around you to avoid collisions.
During peak season the lineup can get very crowded. Follow surf etiquette: do not drop in on other surfers and take turns.
Rip currents occasionally form, especially after heavy swells. If caught in a rip, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current.
Stilt fishermen may ask for money if you photograph them up close. A small tip of LKR 500-1,000 is customary and appreciated.
Secure your belongings on the beach. While generally safe, opportunistic theft from unattended bags has been reported.

Getting There

From Colombo

Approximately 145 km via the Southern Expressway. The drive takes 3-4 hours. The coastal train from Colombo Fort to Weligama station takes 3.5-4.5 hours and is one of the most scenic railway journeys in Sri Lanka.

From Airport

Bandaranaike International Airport is approximately 175 km north of Weligama. A private transfer takes 4-5 hours via the expressway. Pre-booked airport taxis are the most convenient option.

Nearest City

Matara