Weligama Surfing — Sri Lanka's Beginner Bay

Weligama is Sri Lanka's most famous beginner surf town. The wide, sheltered bay, sandy bottom, and consistent knee-to-waist-high waves make it the perfect classroom. Surf schools line the beach; most offer hour-long lessons with board and rashie for around £10–£15.

Season: November to April, peaking December–February. The southwest monsoon from May brings rougher water and most schools close.

The wave: A long, forgiving beach break that reforms gently across the bay. At low tide, advanced surfers paddle out to Plantations (a reef to the east) for a steeper right.

Where to stay: Weligama town itself is budget- and mid-range-focused; nearby Mirissa (10 minutes) has higher-end hotels and nightlife.

Getting there from CMB: Fixed-price taxi from Bandaranaike International Airport is £53 and takes around 2.5 hours. We meet you at arrivals with a name board and drive you door-to-door to your surf camp.

Related surf spots

• Sri Lanka Surfing Guide (pillar)
• Hikkaduwa Surf Guide
• Midigama Surf Guide