An Introduction To Weligama Surf
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By
Matt
- Updated | February 27, 2025
Crammed with convenience and charm, Weligama surf is a tropical paradise on Sri Lanka’s southern coast and is ideally suited for surfers wishing to avoid the car.
The beach of the town, Weligama Beach, is excellent for beginners since it has soft, rolling waves offering an easygoing environment to learn their skills and build confidence.
For those who want a bit more action, Midigama’s punchy reef breaks are just a 15-minute tuk-tuk or bus ride away, with swells suitable to intermediates and advanced surfers.
Similarly, Mirissa is not far away, with a small, sheltered reef break suited to intermediates, reached easily within 20 minutes of biking or a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride.
Whether you’re grabbing a post-surf smoothie, enjoying fresh seafood by the beach, or exploring nearby sights between sessions, Weligama offers plenty of ways to stay stoked both in and out of the water.
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Video by Ivan Kosenkov, originally published on YouTube.
In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Weligama
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Peak Weligama Surf Season | November to March
Suited For All Skill Levels
During these months, Weligama surf experiences consistent swells from the northeast monsoon, with wave heights typically ranging from 2 to 5 feet. The gentle beach breaks make it an ideal time for beginners & intermediate surfers to practice & improve their skills.
Morning offshore winds keep the waves clean & manageable, providing optimal conditions for those learning or refining their technique. Weligama surf also coincides with the peak tourist season, meaning more activity in both the water & the town. Expect lively crowds, vibrant surf culture, & a bustling atmosphere as visitors enjoy the great conditions.
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Shoulder Weligama Surf Season | April & October
Suited For All Skill Levels
April & October offer moderate Weligama surf conditions, with wave heights averaging between 2 to 4 feet. These months are ideal for surfers of all levels, providing a more relaxed atmosphere & fewer crowds, making it easier to enjoy Weligama surf.
The weather remains favorable, & the consistent swells cater to a variety of surfing preferences. With the mellow waves, it’s a great time for beginners & intermediate surfers to refine their skills. Weligama surf during these transitional months is perfect for those seeking a peaceful surfing experience away from peak season crowds.
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Low Weligama Surf Season | May to September
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
The southwest monsoon brings larger Weligama surf during these months, with wave heights ranging from 3 to 6 feet or more. While the conditions can be more challenging due to the increased wave size & occasional onshore winds, intermediate & advanced surfers will find rewarding sessions in Weligama surf.
The town is generally less crowded during this period, offering a quieter environment both in & out of the water. For those looking for more challenging waves, Weligama surf during the southwest monsoon season is a great time to test skills in a less busy setting.
Weligama Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Weligama Surf Temperature:
27–28°C (81–82°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are perfect for the warm water. A rash vest is useful for sun protection, especially during midday sessions.
Rainfall:
This is the wet season, with around 12–16 rainy days per month. Expect humid conditions, frequent showers, & onshore winds that can make surf conditions inconsistent.
Weligama Surf Temperature:
27–29°C (81–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are all you need. The water remains warm, & surf conditions begin improving as the wet season fades.
Rainfall:
Rainfall starts decreasing, with around 8–12 rainy days per month. Surf becomes more consistent, with offshore winds returning for cleaner waves.
Weligama Surf Temperature:
27–29°C (81–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are ideal. The warm, tropical water makes surfing comfortable all day.
Rainfall:
This is the driest season, with around 3–7 rainy days per month. Expect sunny skies, steady offshore winds, & the best surf conditions of the year.
Weligama Surf Temperature:
28–29°C (82–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are all you need. A rash vest can help with sun protection as air temperatures rise.
Rainfall:
Rainfall increases, with around 6–10 rainy days per month. Surf remains fun, but occasional showers & rising humidity signal the approach of the wet season.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Weligama
| Weligama Surf Spots | Distance from Weligama | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Weligama Beach |
In the town centre |
1-3 foot |
Gentle beach break |
Beginner |
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Midigama Left |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) west |
2-6 foot |
Fast, left-hand reef break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Mirissa |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) southeast |
2-5 foot |
Small, sheltered reef break |
Intermediate |
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Coconut Point |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) west |
3-6 foot |
Powerful, hollow reef break |
Advanced only |
Further Information To Weligama Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Works on all tides, best at mid to high tide
- Wind: East-southeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Weligama Beach is one of Sri Lanka’s most beginner-friendly surf spots, offering a vast stretch of soft, rolling waves that break gently over a sandy bottom.
The wave quality is consistent year-round, with long, forgiving rides that allow ample time for pop-ups & balance adjustments. The waves here lack the power of reef breaks, making them ideal for progression & perfecting technique.
Rating: 3/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: East-southeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Midigama Left is a fun reef break known for its clean, peeling left-handers that provide a smooth & consistent ride. The wave has a mechanical quality, with well-defined sections that allow for drawn-out carves & occasional cover-ups.
While the take-off can be steep, the wave generally mellows out, making it a great choice for intermediate surfers looking to transition from beach breaks to reef setups. Shortboarders will enjoy the steeper drop, while longboarders can cruise on the open face. With waves forming over a relatively deep reef, this spot remains approachable while still offering some challenging sections.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate to high
Mirissa is a picturesque reef break offering clean, right-hand waves that break over a relatively deep reef, making it an accessible spot for intermediate surfers. The wave quality here is smooth, with well-formed sections that allow for drawn-out turns & occasional barreling opportunities on bigger swells.
The take-off is generally forgiving, making it a great choice for those looking to improve their technique on a reef break. While the break can get crowded, the wave’s consistency & playful nature make it one of the most enjoyable spots on Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: East-southeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Coconut Point is one of the most powerful surf breaks in the Weligama area, known for its fast, hollow right-handers. The wave quality here is excellent, with a strong, punchy take-off followed by open, racing sections that provide ample opportunities for barrels.
The break works best on a solid southwest swell, when it transforms into one of the best right-handers in the region. Due to the fast-moving waves & the presence of exposed reef, this spot is best suited for experienced surfers who can handle critical take-offs & tight manoeuvres.
Rating: 4.5/5
Travel Time To Weligama Surf Spots
| Weligama Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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Weligama Beach |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Midigama Left |
Approx. 1 hr. |
Approx. 15 min. |
10-15 min. (Tuk-tuk or bus) |
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Mirissa |
Approx. 1 hr. |
Approx. 20 min. |
10-15 min. (Tuk-tuk or bus) |
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Coconut Point |
Approx. 1 hr. |
Approx. 20 min. |
10-15 min. (Tuk-tuk or bus) |
Accommodation In Weligama
Trip.com makes it blissfully easy to start any Sri Lanka surfing journey, enabling travelers to select accommodations befitting their style & budget just meters from the surf. Booking the accommodations early makes for a smooth surf trip and more time in the water.
Consider the surf camps from Tripaneer to fully embrace the surf lifestyle in Sri Lanka. There you will receive coaching, go surfing every day, and meet like minded people, allowing you to grow your surfing and enjoy the full Sri Lankan and Hiriketiya surf experience. It is not just a trip, it is a lifestyle right into which you can step.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€9 to €18 |
$10 to $20 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€22 to €45 |
$25 to $50 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€90 to €150 |
$100 to $160 |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Weligama Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Weligama surf schools offer a variety of options for surfers looking to learn or improve their skills, making it an ideal destination for surf enthusiasts of all levels.
Lucky’s Surf School stands out for its experienced instructors and friendly atmosphere, while Adare Waves Surf School provides personalized coaching tailored to your needs.
Salt Surf School is known for its structured lessons and focus on safety, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Surf’n Lanka combines expertise with a relaxed environment, and Surfing Ants offers a fun and engaging approach to teaching.
With its abundant surf schools & consistent breaks, Weligama surf schools make it easy to find the perfect spot to start or enhance your surfing journey.
Weligama Surf Camp
8 Day Weligama Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With The Surfer Weligama
The Surfer Weligama offers an 8-day surf & yoga retreat designed for all skill levels, combining expert surf coaching, beachfront accommodation, & daily yoga sessions. Guests enjoy six days of surf lessons in small groups with experienced instructors, ensuring rapid progress. Surfboard rental is included during lessons, along with free transport to various surf spots.
Yoga classes take place on the rooftop, providing a perfect way to unwind after a day in the water. Accommodation options include The Surfer Beach Camp, located right on the beach with a pool, or TS2 Surf Camp, just a short walk away.
All surf lessons, yoga sessions, & social activities happen at the Beach Camp, creating a fun & communal atmosphere. Daily breakfast & six group dinners, including special buffet nights, add to the experience, making this retreat an ideal mix of adventure, relaxation, & social connection in Sri Lanka’s stunning Weligama. Find Out More
4 Day Weligama Budget Surf Camp With Surfers Paradise Weligama
Surfers Paradise Weligama offers a 4-day budget surf camp designed for beginner & intermediate surfers seeking expert coaching in a vibrant, beachfront setting. Each day includes two 90-minute surf lessons led by experienced instructors, plus two additional hours of board use for solo practice. Lessons focus on technique, ocean awareness, & wave selection, with a low student-to-instructor ratio for personalized guidance.
Guests stay in dorm or private rooms just steps from the beach & enjoy daily breakfast. The package includes a complimentary Ayurvedic massage or yoga session for post-surf relaxation. Beyond surfing, explore Weligama’s lively surf scene, unwind on beach sunbeds, or visit nearby attractions like Mirissa Beach & Galle Fort.
The welcoming team at Surfers Paradise Weligama fosters a friendly, community-driven atmosphere, making it easy to connect with surfers from around the world. With its expert instruction, prime location, & laid-back vibe, this camp offers the perfect balance of learning, fun, & relaxation in Sri Lanka’s tropical paradise. Find Out More
8 Day Weligama Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With Solid Surf and Yoga House Sri Lanka
Solid Surf and Yoga House Sri Lanka offers an 8-day all-inclusive surf & yoga camp for all levels in Weligama Bay. With a “One Package Fits All” approach, the camp provides expert-led surf lessons, daily free surfing, & surf guiding for intermediate & advanced surfers. Beginners receive structured coaching in small groups, while experienced surfers enjoy twice-daily guided sessions to the best breaks in the area.
Weekly surf video analysis & surf theory sessions help refine technique. Yoga sessions complement surfing, enhancing flexibility & recovery. Guests stay in high-quality, air-conditioned accommodations ranging from shared dorms to private luxury rooms, all with private bathrooms.
Facilities include a large swimming pool, an open kitchen with in-house chefs, a yoga shala, & an outdoor cinema. Five dinners & daily breakfast are included. Located near prime surf spots like Jungle Beach & Turtle Beach, the camp offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, & community in Sri Lanka’s tropical paradise. Find Out More
Weligama Surfboard Hire
Weligama surfboard hire options are abundant, ensuring surfers of all levels have access to the right equipment for the area’s waves.
Lucky’s Surf School and Salt Surf School offer a wide range of boards, from foamies for beginners to performance boards for seasoned surfers.
Surf’n Lanka and Surfing Ants also provide quality rentals with flexible durations and expert advice to help you choose the right board. Additionally, the beachfront is dotted with rental shops offering competitive prices and a variety of equipment.
With these options, Weligama surfboard hire makes it easy to find the perfect board for your surf adventure.
Weligama Surf Report & Surf Cam
If you want to stay up to date with Weligama surf, it is best to use trusted sites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline. They provide the most comprehensive forecasts & live cams to see what the surf is doing in real-time at the best surf spots in Sri Lanka. Surfline’s premium cams are paid, but worth the money to better session planning.
With a Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM, you can log on as soon as you land and skip the hassle of getting a local SIM. Whether you want to watch waves or share clips, Drimsim or Yesim keeps you connected throughout your Sri Lanka surf experience.
How To Get To Weligama Surf
- Colombo Bandaranaike Airport (CMB) To Weligama
Distance: 175km (110mi)
To reach Weligama surf, the most convenient route is to fly into Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) & then take a local bus to your destination. Below is a quick guide with various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Weligama based on your preferences.
Public Transport
Approx. 4.5-6 hrs.
Details:
For budget-conscious travelers, a combination of train or bus is the most economical way to reach Weligama:
Train: Take a taxi or airport shuttle to Colombo Fort Railway Station (1 hour, $5–$10 USD). From there, board a train to Weligama, which takes 3.5–4.5 hours. The coastal railway route is scenic, & express trains are faster & more comfortable than regular services.
Bus: Take the Colombo–Matara Express Bus (Route 2) from Maharagama Bus Station, a short taxi or bus ride from the airport. The journey takes around 3.5–4.5 hours & is more comfortable than local buses.
While this is the most budget-friendly option, train & bus schedules can be inconsistent, so checking ahead is recommended.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 3-4.5 hrs.
Details:
Several shuttle services operate between Colombo Airport & Weligama, including Ceylon Escapes & Sri Lanka Airport Shuttle. Shared shuttles may have stops along the way, while private shuttles offer a faster, more direct journey.
Pre-book your shuttle service with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to avoid waiting on arrival. Your shuttle will be waiting at the airport, making it easy to get from the airport to the beach without delay.
Sri Lanka Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Sri Lanka’s mellow surf vibe will always be remembered, but carrying the essentials wouldn’t hurt for a smoother trip. Cash in Sri Lankan Rupees is a must-have for food, tuk-tuk rides, and even surfboard rental. Drink bottled water because tap water is unsafe. The Internet is fair in towns but poor elsewhere.
Check our Sri Lanka surf page for the full list of 7 essentials, including health services, visa entry details, safety guidance, and emergency contacts to stay fully informed.
Travel Insurance For Your Weligama Surf Trip
Most people, while preparing for a Sri Lanka surf vacation, do not consider travel emergencies, nor even traveling flights, and gear. A lot of common problems traveling, delayed baggage, sudden illness, and missed bookings. Get peace of mind through VisitorsCoverage and surf with the confidence of knowing you’re protected.
This is travel insurance offering several covered benefits, including medical and trip coverage, without derailing your plans. That way, you can easily safeguard both the surfing trip and the wallet.
Discover Weligama: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the waves are flat in Weligama, there’s still plenty to explore beyond the surf. From coastal adventures to cultural experiences, below are four recommended activities to make the most of your time.
For even more options, check out GetYourGuide, which offers everything from whale watching tours to cooking classes and scenic day trips around the region.
Exploring Galle: The Best Sights & Landmarks to Visit
If the waves aren’t looking good for a few days, take a trip to Galle, just 45 minutes away by bus or tuk-tuk. Below are 4 recommended options to make the most of your time.
For even more ways to experience the city, check out GetYourGuide and Viator, where you’ll find walking tours, cooking classes, and cultural experiences that bring Galle’s unique atmosphere to life.
Keep Exploring With More Sri Lanka Surf Destinations
Written by Matt
Surfer for nearly 20 years and an environmental scientist for nine, Matt grew up on the Sunshine Coast in Australia and now calls Melbourne home. He’s all about finding surf towns you can reach without a car and writes simple surf guides to help you do the same.