Where to Stay

Weligama

Weligama and Mirissa attracts a lot of solo-travelers, couples and families so depending on what vibe you are looking for there are a few different options.

Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa – If you are looking for a beachfront hotel, with all the amenities you need and a high level of service then this would be your best option.

Kima Surf Camp – If you are in Weligama as an experienced, intermediate, or beginner surfer and are looking to surf daily with experienced instructors, then this is a perfect place for you. They have social coordinators, surf instructors, a masseuse, chefs, and bartenders to create an unforgettable experience. They are daily social activities, family style buffet dinners multiple nights a week, an onsite restaurant for lunch/breakfast daily, and yoga.

Hangtime Hostel – If you are just looking for a place to sleep and be social, then this hostel is a good option based on location and onsite amenities. You are steps from the beach, restaurants, surf rentals, and bars. 

Mirissa

Hangover Hostel Mirissa – This hostel is located right across from the beach in Mirissa, and is surrounded by bars, restaurants, and shopping. It has free WI-FI, AC in every room, hot showers, individual lamp/USB/charger, big secure lockers, and electronic card access. A good place to meet other travelers. 

Triple O Six Hotel – A boutique hotel located just a short walk from Mirissa Beach and the famous Coconut Tree Hill viewpoint. It has a peaceful atmosphere with spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. Good for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

Transportation

Getting to the Southern Coast: 

If you’re flying internationally, the easiest way to reach the Southern Coast is through Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). From there, you have a few good options: 

Option 1: Private driver or taxi (best overall)

• Travel time: 2.5–3.5 hours
• Cost: Around LKR 15,000–25,000 (approximately US$50–85)
• This is the easiest option if you’re arriving after a long flight or with luggage Drivers use the Southern Expressway for a fast trip
• Some hotels and surf camps will offer a pre-arranged driver

Option 2: Scenic coastal train (best budget + views)

• Travel time: About 3–4 hours
• Cost: Usually under US$10, depending on class
• The train from Colombo to Weligama/Mirissa follows the Indian Ocean for much of the journey and is considered one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic rail routes

Option 3: Express bus

• Travel time: Around 3–4 hours
• Cost: Very affordable.
• Take an express bus toward Matara or Weligama from Colombo, then continue if necessary with a short local bus or tuk-tuk

Getting Around the Southern Coast:

Getting around Weligama and Mirissa is easy and affordable, with several convenient transportation options available. The most popular way to explore the area is by tuk-tuk, which can be hailed on the street or booked through ride-hailing apps like PickMe.

Rent your own Tuk-Tuk: For a more unique way to explore Sri Lanka, consider renting your own tuk-tuk. This has become an increasingly popular option for travelers who want the freedom to discover hidden beaches, local cafés, and small villages at their own pace. Most rental companies provide a brief driving lesson, insurance options, and help you obtain the temporary Sri Lankan driving permit required to drive legally. 

Renting your own Tuk-Tuk is very popular among backpackers, as they will hop between towns over the course of a few weeks with the freedom of their own transportation.

Where to Eat and Drink

There are a lot of fun spots to eat and drink on the coast. A lot of places will be closed during off season, if you choose to go then so be mindful of that.

Kai Beach Pool Club – A pool club on the beach with a full service restaurant and bar, music, and a boutique. Really fun vibe during the day and in the evening. Right across the street from Kima Surf Camp. 

The Cliff – Probably my favorite dining experience in all of Asia. An amazing view (sit on the cliff lawn) with delicious food and drinks. Go at sunset for a calm beautiful view while you eat and drink on beach bag chairs for dinner. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Reservations needed. 

Moochie’s Weligama – A casual cafe with exceptional food and drinks for a quick bite to eat.

Tipsy Turtle – Located about a 10 minute TukTuk ride from Weligama, Tipsy Turtle is a beach front seafood restaurant located in Mirissa. It is one of the most popular beach spots in Mirissa, and is the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy the laid-back Sri Lankan coastal lifestyle. Great place to go whether you’re stopping by for a casual beach day drink or ending your night with live music.

Araliya Restaurant – Also located in Mirissa, this restaurant offers a mix of local and international dishes, with favorites including fresh seafood, grilled prawns, pasta, and casual comfort foods. It has a welcoming open-aired atmosphere and laid-back island feel.

Activities

There is so much to do on the Southern Coast, but here are a few spots/activities I would recommend trying to do while you are there:

Snorkeling in Thalaramba Beach in Mirissa – Secret snorkeling spot: If you take a TukTuk to David Pieris Motor Company and walk down that dirt road, eventually you will get to the beach (trust the process). When you get to the beach, walk to the right a bit down the shoreline, and eventually you will find a perfect calm spot to snorkel where you can see so many sea creatures in clear blue water. A local surf instructor brought my friend and I here so its not very known to the public. 

Lamana – Such a unique spot in the Ahangama area. It is a little outside of Weligama but definitely worth going to. When you walk in, you are inside a bar but through the bar is a back outdoor area with a skate park and music where people from all over come to skate. Such a cool vibe and fun place to meet people.  

Surfing – Weligama is known for its surf, so if you are here then it’s definitely worth renting a board or taking a lesson from a local surf shop. There are good waves for beginners in the Weligama Bay or more advanced surfers can explore other beaches in the area for better surfing.

Beach Break Surf Hostel Rooftop – Monday Funday is here every Monday night, located on the rooftop of the Beach Break Hostel. Rooftop bar with a live DJ, lots of dancing and bright strobe lights. 

HIGH SEASON & OFF SEASON

Best Time to Visit Weligama & Mirissa

The best time to visit Sri Lanka’s southern coast, including Weligama and Mirissa, is during the dry season from December through April. During these months, you can expect sunny skies, calm seas, and ideal conditions for surfing, snorkeling, whale watching, and beach days.

The off-season runs from May through November, when the southwest monsoon brings more frequent rain and rougher ocean conditions. While showers are often short-lived, the beaches can be less suitable for swimming and surfing. However, traveling during the off-season means fewer crowds, lower accommodation prices, and a greener, more peaceful landscape, making it a great option for travelers looking for a quieter and more budget-friendly experience. Keep in mind though, a lot of popular restaurants and other hot spots will likely be closed during these months.