Sri lanka is special. So special that each experience is magical. The food, the people, the beaches, the mountains, the temples and the national parks bring me back to that same word, magical. If you’re thinking of where to next, think Sri Lanka.
My first ever blog post, writing mostly about Weligama and its neighbouring surf spots. Enjoy!
Weligama
Weligama translating to “Sandy village”
Once just a sleepy fishing village now attracts people from all over the globe for its surf, food, sunsets and colourful fishing boats. Weligama is forever evolving yet still maintains its small village spirit. Stumbling through the chaotic streets of town or calm sands by the sea. Either one will heighten your senses. A place to connect to people, culture, nature and most importantly, yourself.
Weligama’s long peeling wave is predominantly gentle and forgiving making it one of the best places to learn to surf. The beach is full of surf schools offering lessons, board rental, sunbeds and those post surf coconuts.
Just a short tuk tuk ride and you’ll discover more advanced beach and reef breaks with a little less crowds (and soft tops). Some of our favourite places to catch a wave close by:
Jungle Beach: Tucked away off the main road is this slice of paradise. The water temp, friendly turtles and high palm filled capes leave you in awe. A long left usually less crowded and a perfect place to snorkel, swim and embrace island life at one of the small beach bars.
Fishermans: It has its name for a reason, a mellow reef overlooking Weligama fishing harbour. A 10/15 minute paddle out but worth it nearly every time. A nice right which works best on a bigger swell.
Midigama: Both a left and a right, take your pick. Perfect for intermediate surfers, the sun bather, coconut drinker & photo taker.
Mirissa: 10 minutes tuk tuk from Weligama you’ll reach Mirissa. Attracting people with its long picturesque beach, cocktails, seafood, late night beach parties and the instagram famous Palm Hill. Mirissa right produces a good wave and even better backdrop.
South Sri Lanka “high” season kicks off around November through April. “High” season because rain is rare and the offshore winds generate clean and consistent waves. Shoulder months October and May still see perfect days and waves, while avoiding the crowds and prices of high season . The “low” season June-September has more rainfall and stronger winds creating the occasional bigger and rougher seas. The Island at the west end of Weligama works during these months and has waves for all levels.
What to do in Weligama when not by the ocean?
Adventure down to the local markets, every Monday and Friday morning. Watch the hussle, or join the hussle. You’ll leave a happy customer, and the market sellers even happier. Not to mention a whole bag of fresh fruit and veg for a couple of bucks.
Explore the lush Weligama hinterland and small villages along the way. Only a few minutes in land yet you’ll feel miles away. Its real and sometimes raw. Full of smiley kids, rice paddies, stray dogs, uneven roads, open air and endless greenery. The feeling of freedom.
Take a local cooking class. Master the traditional ways of local cooking. Discover all the spices used in creating the abundance of unique and rich flavours in Sri Lankan dishes.
Weligama, where theres something for everyone and you’ll never get bored. Join us in this special part of the world to surf, create, inspire, meet, explore, embrace and & appreciate.
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Such a cool chilled out little place. Fun endless waves and perfect food when you get in. Doesn’t get much better then that. Yew
Great post Molly hope all well with you.
Regards,
Pat
Happy Bay