RIVIERA OF THE SOUTH

The large ten kilometre Weligama bay is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Sri Lanka. It is known as the Riviera of the island with over two kilometres of excellent light surfing for beginners.

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It was the opening of the Marriott hotel in 2017 that changed this sleepy strip creating major hype and the development of mass market tourism to this area. Just before the 2019 Easter bombings took place the ownership of the hotel changed. Tourism collapsed but the operator remained and ultimately has flourished. Most of our visits to Weligama have been part of a tour along the coast with stops there to eat, walk the beach and chill.

Some say it is the best beach in the country for learning how to surf.

The town's name translates as "sandy village" and the complete water front is a buzz of restaurant, surf, diving centres and shops. There is an array of accomodation, yoga retreats and other establishments.