Best Places to Visit in Weligama for Surf, Culture & Relaxation

Weligama is one of those places that quietly grabs your heart. I first visited it during a three-week trip across the south coast of Sri Lanka. I was drawn to its calm waves, smiling locals, and that easy, breezy vibe that you don’t get in crowded tourist towns. It’s not just a surf town. It’s a full experience. Let me walk you through the places that made my time in Weligama unforgettable.

What Makes Weligama Special?

Weligama sits right between Mirissa and Matara. It’s known for its beautiful bay, laid-back feel, and great beginner surf. But it offers more than just the ocean. There’s culture, local food, village life, and the kind of charm that’s hard to put into words.

Is Weligama Beach Really Worth It?

Yes. And not just for surfers. Weligama Beach stretches wide and smooth, with soft sand and shallow waves. I stayed in a small guesthouse just two minutes from the beach. Every morning, I’d walk barefoot to the water and watch the sunrise. In the afternoon, locals and travelers would gather for surf lessons or to play beach cricket.

You don’t need to be a pro to enjoy this beach. I took two surfing lessons here with a guy named Saman. He’s been teaching for over 10 years. His school, Saman Surf, is right on the beach and affordable.

Where Can You See the Famous Stilt Fishermen?

A short tuk-tuk ride from Weligama will take you to Koggala. That’s where you can find the famous stilt fishermen. I went early in the morning around 6:30 am. The light was perfect for photos, and the fishermen were already at work.

Some now pose for tourists, and yes, it can feel a bit set up. But it’s still worth seeing. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a real one casting his line while balancing on the pole.

What’s There to Explore Around Taprobane Island?

This tiny island is just off the coast of Weligama Beach. It has one villa on it, and it’s private. But you can view it beautifully from the beach or paddle near it.

I rented a kayak from a beach shack and paddled out. I couldn’t go on the island, but just circling it gave me a peaceful moment away from the crowds. The ocean around it is crystal clear.

Can You Visit a Local Market?

Yes. Weligama has a central market that’s full of life. I spent an hour just walking through the fruit stalls, spice shops, and fish corners. I picked up some jackfruit chips and fresh coconut water.

If you enjoy real local experiences, the market is perfect. Most vendors don’t speak English fluently, but a smile and simple gestures go a long way. I learned that “wattakka” is pumpkin in Sinhala, thanks to a kind old vendor who laughed at my attempt.

Are There Good Cafes in Weligama?

Weligama has some great cafes. I worked remotely for a few days while I was there, so I tried several. My favorite was Ceylon Sliders. The rooftop has ocean views, and their smoothie bowls are delicious.

Another favorite was Aloha Coffee Gallery. Great coffee, cool vibe, and fast Wi-Fi. If you’re a digital nomad or just love good food, these spots are gems.

What Temples Can You Visit in Weligama?

Kushtarajagala Statue

Just five minutes from the beach, this is a 12-foot-tall carved statue of a Bodhisattva. It’s believed to be from the 7th century. Some say it’s a healing figure. It’s free to visit and tucked away near the road. I nearly missed it, but a local pointed it out.

Midigama Temple

If you have time, take a trip to Midigama to visit its peaceful Buddhist temple. It’s small, but very local. I was lucky to see a monk giving blessings to kids there. It’s not a touristy place, which made it feel even more special.

Is Mirissa Close Enough for a Day Trip?

Definitely. Mirissa is only 15 minutes by tuk-tuk. It has a more lively beach scene. I went for a day to do whale watching. The boat left early in the morning. We saw blue whales about an hour out at sea. It was magical. Just make sure to go with a trusted company—Raja & the Whales is a good one.

After the boat ride, I chilled on Mirissa Beach, had some kottu at a roadside stall, and came back to Weligama before sunset.

Can You Do Yoga in Weligama?

Yes. There are several yoga spots. I joined a morning flow session at Soul & Surf. It was held on a rooftop overlooking the sea. The instructor, Maya, was from the UK and had been teaching in Sri Lanka for over three years.

The session was open to all levels. The wind, the waves in the background, and the calm vibe made it one of the best yoga classes I’ve ever taken.

What About Day Trips to Unawatuna or Galle?

Weligama is well-connected. I took a day trip to Galle Fort by train. It took about an hour. The ride was scenic, with views of the sea and palm trees. Galle Fort is a UNESCO site, full of colonial architecture and cute cafes.

Unawatuna is also close. If you want a more lively beach with clear water for swimming, it’s a great stop.

Any Secret Spots Around Weligama?

Jungle Beach

Not many tourists go here. I had to walk about 15 minutes through a small path near Midigama. The beach is wild and untouched. No vendors, no noise. Just you and the sea. I sat there for an hour with a book and some tea I carried in my bag.

Coconut Tree Hill

This is technically closer to Mirissa, but it’s iconic. I went early to avoid the crowd. Watching the sunrise behind the coconut silhouettes was worth the wake-up call. Just be careful—the path can be slippery.

Are There Local Workshops or Crafts?

I found a batik workshop on my third day in Weligama. A small family-run place where you can watch how batik fabric is made. I ended up trying my hand at it. Not perfect, but I took home my little piece of hand-dyed art.

Some guesthouses also offer cooking classes. I did one with my host, where we made dhal curry, coconut sambol, and rice. It was simple, but full of flavor. She even gave me handwritten recipes.

Is Weligama Good for Long Stays?

Yes. It’s not overdeveloped. There are budget stays, mid-range hotels, and surf hostels. I met travelers who had been living there for months. They surf in the morning, work online during the day, and gather for sunset beers.

The vibe is relaxed. Not rushed. If you’re looking for a base that feels like home but still gives you beach views, Weligama is perfect.