MIRISSA & WELIGAMA
Mirissa and Weligama form a vibrant coastal paradise on Sri Lanka’s southern tip, famed for golden beaches and world-class surfing. This combined subregion offers the perfect blend of seaside relaxation and thrilling ocean adventures.
Here, you can watch gentle giants of the sea and then ride the perfect wave, all within minutes. It is a stunning, accessible destination that captures the essence of a tropical island escape.
Most Popular Attractions
Beaches & Coastal Landmarks:
Mirissa Beach: A long, beautiful crescent of sand, famous for its laid-back vibe and stunning sunsets.
Weligama Bay Beach: A sheltered, sandy bay with shallow waters, ideal for beginner surfers and swimming.
Coconut Tree Hill: An iconic, photogenic spot on a small hill overlooking the ocean, perfect for panoramic views.
Secret Beach: A smaller, secluded cove offering a quieter alternative to the main beach.
Kabalana Beach: Located just west of Weligama, known for its powerful reef breaks popular with experienced surfers.
Taprobane Island: A small, privately owned island off the coast of Weligama with a magnificent villa.
Polhena Beach: A calm beach to the east, popular for snorkeling and swimming due to its reef protection.
Midigama Beaches: A stretch of coast renowned among surfers for consistent breaks like “Lazy Left” and “Rams.”
Ocean Activities & Marine Life:
Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours: Mirissa is one of the best spots in the world to see Blue Whales, Sperm Whales, and dolphins.
Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the coral reefs and diverse marine life, especially around Secret Beach and Polhena.
Deep Sea Fishing: Organized fishing excursions targeting larger pelagic fish.
Surf Spots & Training:
Weligama Surf School/Lessons: Numerous surf schools offering beginner-friendly lessons and board rentals on the gentle waves of Weligama Bay.
The Point (Mirissa): A famous surf break at the eastern end of Mirissa Beach, suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers.
Lazy Left/Right (Midigama): Beginner to intermediate-friendly reef breaks just a short drive from Weligama.
Cultural & Local Heritage:
Weligama Stilt Fishermen: The iconic sight of local fishermen perched on poles—a traditional, though now largely performative, fishing method.
Weligama’s Old Dutch Fort: Remnants of a small, historic Dutch-era fort near the center of Weligama town.
Kushtarajagala Statue: A 12-foot-high, 7th-century rock-carved Mahayana Bodhisattva statue in Weligama.
Handunugoda Tea Estate: A nearby working estate offering tours to see the process of growing and manufacturing Ceylon tea, including the famous Virgin White Tea.
Market Visit (Weligama): Experience the lively local atmosphere, especially the fish and vegetable markets.
Ayurvedic Spas & Wellness Centers: Numerous places offering traditional Sri Lankan Ayurvedic treatments and massages.
Cooking Classes: Local restaurants and families offering classes focusing on Sri Lankan curry and rice preparation.
Activities & Experiences
Go Whale and Dolphin Watching: Take a boat trip from Mirissa Harbour to spot Blue Whales (the largest animal on earth), Sperm Whales, and various dolphin species, particularly between November and April.
Learn to Surf at Weligama Beach: Enroll in a beginner’s surf lesson or rent a board. Weligama is famous for its gentle, sandy-bottomed waves, making it one of the best spots in the world for novices.
Explore Secret Beach (Mirissa): Hire a tuk-tuk or walk to this secluded cove just west of Mirissa’s main bay, perfect for quiet sunbathing, snorkeling, and a relaxing swim.
Relax on Mirissa Beach: Spend a day on the crescent-shaped main beach. Enjoy a fresh juice, book a hammock, and wait for the stunning sunset, often accompanied by beachfront dining setup.
Visit the Iconic Coconut Tree Hill: Walk up the palm-covered hill for a classic, panoramic photo opportunity of the coastline, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Take a Hands-On Sri Lankan Cooking Class: Learn to prepare authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry, dhal, and sambols (fresh coconut relish) using local spices and techniques.
Experience Snorkeling or Diving: Take a boat trip to one of the nearby coral reef spots to explore the vibrant underwater life, including colorful fish and sea turtles.
Walk up to Parrot Rock (Mirissa): If the tide is low, carefully cross the water to this small rock island for a closer view of the ocean and the Mirissa coastline.
Go for an Ayurveda Massage: Indulge in a traditional, holistic Ayurveda treatment and massage, known for its therapeutic and restorative properties.
Take a Day Trip to Galle Fort: Hire a driver or take the train/bus to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site, a historical fortified city with boutique shops and colonial architecture.
Visit the Hummanaya Blowhole: Drive slightly east to see one of the few natural blowholes in the world, where sea water jets high into the air with a loud roar.
Watch the Traditional Stilt Fishermen: Observe the unique sight of the stilt fishermen at sunrise or sunset along the coast between Weligama and Ahangama (note: some may charge a small fee for photos).
Local Tips & Transport
Tuk-Tuks are King: The primary mode of short-distance travel. Always agree on the price with the driver before starting the journey to avoid being overcharged. A short trip between Mirissa and Weligama should be relatively inexpensive.
Coastal Bus: Local buses run frequently along the Galle Road, connecting all the coastal towns. They are incredibly cheap and a fast, though often crowded, way to travel longer distances (e.g., to Galle or Matara).
Train Travel (The Scenic Route): The coastal railway line is one of the world’s most beautiful. Taking the train from Weligama to Galle (or further to Colombo) offers stunning ocean views and a quintessential Sri Lankan travel experience. Tickets are very cheap, but seats can be hard to secure.
Scooter/Motorcycle Rental: For travelers comfortable on two wheels, renting a scooter is a popular way to explore the coastline and nearby villages at your own pace. Always wear a helmet and be mindful of the often chaotic traffic.
Respect the Ocean: While the main beaches are generally safe for swimming, be aware that the Indian Ocean can have strong rip currents. Always look for safety flags, especially outside the protected swimming areas.
Dress Code: While swimwear is acceptable on the beaches, cover up (shoulders and knees) when walking through town, visiting local markets, or especially when entering temples.
Pace Yourself (The “Chilled Vibe”): Life moves slowly here. Expect things to happen on “Sri Lankan time,” meaning service can be relaxed. Embrace the lack of rush—it’s part of the charm.
Safety with Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wild animals, including monkeys, which can be found around Coconut Tree Hill and other spots. Never feed them, as this can make them aggressive.
The Food Culture:
- Rice & Curry: This is the staple. It’s not one curry, but a main dish (rice) served with 4-8 small vegetable and meat curries. Eat it with your hand (right hand only) for the authentic experience.
- Hoppers: A local breakfast or dinner favorite. Appa (bowl-shaped pancakes) and String Hoppers (noodle nests) are must-tries.
- Try Kottu: Shredded flatbread stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and spices—the sound of its preparation is a signature evening sound.
Hidden Gems:
- Kushtarajagala Statue (Weligama): An ancient 12th-century rock-cut statue of a Bodhisattva, tucked away near the main road in Weligama.
- Weligama Harbour: A working fishing harbour where you can watch the morning catch come in and see the brightly colored fishing boats.
- The Tea Plantations: While not a primary tea region, there are smaller, accessible plantations and factories inland from Mirissa where you can take a quick tour and sample fresh Ceylon tea.
Top Restaurants
Meewitha Restaurant [$3-$7] – An extremely popular, no-frills local spot in Weligama serving incredibly authentic Sri Lankan curries and rice dishes for an unbeatable price, making it one of the most affordable and satisfying meals in town.
No. 1 Dewmini Roti Shop [$3-$7] – A renowned, slightly hidden gem in Mirissa famous for its wide variety of delicious sweet and savory rotis and kottu roti. It’s a classic spot that lives up to the hype, despite its popularity.
Dhana’s Curry Pot [$5-$8] – A rustic, all-you-can-eat buffet in Mirissa specializing in authentic, home-cooked Sri Lankan rice and curries, with excellent vegan and vegetarian options, including delicious beet and pumpkin curries.
Ambrosia Roti Shop [$3-$7] – A great, cheap local roti shop in Mirissa that promises “the real taste of Taprobana,” specializing in kottu roti, stuffed rotis, and the Sri Lankan ‘deviled’ dishes.
Ceylon Curry House [$5-$10] – A budget-friendly restaurant in Mirissa serving authentic Sri Lankan curry platters, kottu roti, and other local favorites, perfect for travelers on a tight budget.
Our World WiFi Cafe [$5-$10] – A simple local spot known for its authentic Sri Lankan dishes and a focus on fresh fruit juices, perfect for familiarizing visitors with unique local fruits.
Green garden Super Roti [$3-$7] – A lesser-known local joint for quick, simple, and delicious rotis, offering a great option for a cheap and cheerful local bite.
Chill Cafe juice bar restaurant Ice Cream – Mirissa [$5-$10] – A casual spot offering a mix of Sri Lankan classics like Rice and Curry, kottu, and rotis alongside Western fare.
Big Belly Roti Hut [$3-$7] – A local favorite in Mirissa, often recommended for their sweet rotis, particularly the mango chocolate roti, and the traditional local dessert, watalappan.
Seafood Stalls on Mirissa Beach [$10-$25] – Not a single restaurant, but a collection of evening beachfront stalls where you can select fresh-caught fish, prawns, or lobster and have it grilled to order right on the sand. Bargaining is key.
Zephyr Restaurant & Bar [$15-$30] – A popular, cosmopolitan beachfront restaurant in Mirissa known for consistently good, freshly grilled seafood and well-crafted cocktails, offering a great vibe for dinner.
BRIZO Beach Restaurant Mirissa [$15-$30] – A highly-regarded spot on Mirissa beach known for its exceptional, freshly grilled fish, often served with rice and garlic butter, and excellent service.
Ocean Moon Restaurant [$15-$30] – Known for its very fresh, non-frozen seafood, including lobster, jumbo prawns, and tuna, which are brought directly from the boats daily. Calling ahead for a special order is recommended.
SALT Mirissa [$15-$25] – A beachfront cafe and resort with a strong focus on fresh seafood dishes and comfort food, all enjoyed from sunbeds or beachside tables.
Nautica [$15-$25] – A chill beach restaurant located slightly outside the busy center of Mirissa, offering an upstairs terrace with beautiful ocean views and a menu featuring fresh seafood.
The Cliff Weligama [$20-$35] – Considered by some to be the best restaurant in Weligama, offering a great location, overall vibe, and a quality dining experience, likely with a focus on fresh ingredients and presentation.
101 Restaurant Mirissa [$15-$30] – A spot with great reviews for its delicious burgers and superb seafood, with a reputation for excellent presentation and attention to detail in its dishes.
Silent Pup Restaurant [$10-$20] – A low-key and more budget-friendly sunset spot in Weligama than its high-end neighbors, offering a great place for a relaxed meal.
The Doctors House [$10-$20] – Located a short drive from Mirissa in Madiha, this is a super relaxed, popular hangout spot in a beautiful old building, known for its wood-fired pizza and overall cool vibe with occasional live music.
Little Tuna [$10-$20] – A cozy and colorful Mirissa restaurant that offers a relaxed sushi experience with fresh, good-quality sushi at reasonable prices, a great break from Sri Lankan cuisine.
O Mirissa Cafe and Bistro [$15-$25] – An intimate cafe in Mirissa offering Italian cuisine, including pasta, pizza, and a popular seafood platter, a unique find in the area.
Fujisan [$5-$15] – A budget-friendly ‘hole-in-the-wall’ spot near Weligama offering a huge variety of cuisines, from Chinese and Japanese to traditional Sri Lankan food, a great option for a mixed group.
Maru Weligama [$10-$20] – A go-to spot for fresh fish in Weligama, specializing in super tasty poke bowls and shrimp ceviche, right on the beach with a chill atmosphere.
South Coast Taqueria [$8-$15] – A relaxed Mirissa restaurant that serves great tacos and good drinks, a nice change of pace from local cuisine.
DipnGreeno [$5-$10] – A casual spot in Mirissa for quick and tasty Lebanese food, including shawarmas.
Hangten Rooftop (at Hangtime Hostel) [$8-$15] – The rooftop at this popular Weligama hostel offers great views and a fun, social atmosphere, with surprisingly good food like their double cheese smash burgers.
Kuja, Mirissa [$7-$12] – A laidback restaurant serving yummy, healthy bowls and good coffee.
La La Land [$15-$25] – Offers a nice view, low seats, and a live band, with a menu featuring Lebanese food.
Milky Wave [$5-$10] – A small cafe in Mirissa serving yummy gelato, ice cream, and coffee, perfect for a sweet treat.
The Atlas at Cape Weligama [$30-$60] – Located in a luxury hotel, this open-air pavilion facing the sea offers a high-end dining experience with top-notch service and exquisite food, perfect for a special occasion.
Quinta [$25-$45] – Located more inland in Mirissa, this spot is recommended for a date night or a more special dining experience, with a warm atmosphere, lovely garden, live music on weekends, and a menu focusing on Italian and European-inspired cuisine.
Kama Mirissa [$10-$20] – Known for being a great spot for arrack sours (a local spirit cocktail) and a more sophisticated drink experience.
Ahimsa Vegan Cafe [$7-$12] – A spot mentioned for its locally brewed ginger kombucha, offering a unique, healthy beverage option.
Dimali Inn [$5-$10] – Known not just for dining, but also for offering authentic local cooking classes, providing a unique cultural experience alongside the food.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Zephyr Restaurant and Bar: A stylish and cosmopolitan beachfront bar in Mirissa, known for its extensive cocktail menu (try the Passion Fruit Mojito) and chic vibes, perfect for sunset drinks and late-night ambiance.
Kama Mirissa: Located right on Mirissa Beach, this venue offers an outstanding nightlife experience with stunning beach views, a classy crowd, and a great variety of cocktails and cold beers.
Secret Beach Bar: Tucked away near Mirissa’s famous “Secret Beach,” this tranquil spot is ideal for a romantic escape, offering cocktails and local cuisine away from the main beach crowds.
The Cliff Weligama: Situated on a spectacular cliffside overlooking Weligama Bay, this bar offers a sophisticated setting for sunset sipping with expertly crafted signature cocktails and breathtaking ocean views.
Bay Moon: A relaxed, unpretentious beachfront restaurant and bar on Mirissa Beach that sets tables right near the water’s edge, famous for its inexpensive cocktails and local beers, offering a romantic, intimate setting.
Petti Petti Mirissa: Located on the beachfront in Mirissa, this spot combines contemporary luxury with casual relaxation, featuring a beautiful elevated infinity pool, comfortable seating, and zesty cocktails.
Papa Mango: A chilled-out beachfront bar on Mirissa Beach, away from the central crowds, offering sun loungers, a relaxed atmosphere, great music, and delicious cocktails to enjoy while watching the sunset.
Tiki Cliff Top Restaurant and Bar: Found on a hilltop overlooking Weligama Bay, this popular spot is known for its stunning view, tasty food, flavorful drinks, and frequently hosts a lively party with varied DJ music on Friday nights.
Palm Villa Restaurant and Bar: Situated in Mirissa, this spot offers a serene and peaceful ambiance for a relaxing evening and is also known for occasionally hosting some of the best parties in Mirissa.
Central Beach Inn: Located right on Mirissa Beach, this simple yet perfect seafront hangout offers a breathtaking sea view, great classic cocktails, and a popular 2-for-1 Happy Hour (5–10 pm).
O Mirissa Cafe and Bistro: Found near Udupilla Junction in Mirissa, this is a popular place to enjoy great drinks and food, with an eclectic mix of international and local cuisine.
Kaiyo Sushi Bar: Located a short drive from Weligama, this newer, innovative sushi bar features a seasonal cocktail list that creatively blends Japanese liqueurs with native Sri Lankan ingredients like coconut arrack.
Sudu Weli beach bar and resturant: A vibrant beach bar and restaurant on Mirissa Beach, offering refreshing drinks and delicious seafood in a lively coastal setting.
SunSet Bar: Located next to the iconic Coconut Tree Hill in Mirissa, this is the perfect place to enjoy a lovely view and a refreshing sundowner while listening to the sound of the sea.
Locale: Overlooking the beautiful Weligama Bay, this contemporary Pan Asian gastro bar is a great option for enjoying weekend drinks and dinner with friends.
The Surfer Rooftop Restaurant and Bar: Located in Weligama, this is a highly-rated spot to enjoy quality drinks and food, including amazing seafood and cocktails.
Kai Beach – Pool Club: A popular all-day beachfront hangout in Weligama known for its lively beachside vibes, where music plays, cocktails flow, and the venue frequently hosts pool parties on weekends, offering a blend of energy and ease.
Why Not Backpackers Mirissa: Primarily a party hostel located centrally in Mirissa, it is famous for its lively bar and regularly organizes a high-energy “booze cruise” on Mondays, drawing a large crowd of travelers.
Mirissa Eye: A vibrant restro-bar on Mirissa Beach, known for its excellent cocktails and delicious grilled seafood, which attracts a crowd looking for a lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.
Salt Mirissa: A beach club and restaurant on Mirissa Beach that is famous for organizing lively themed parties, often featuring DJs spinning a mix of electronic, reggae, and local music that stretches late into the night.
Zouk Mirissa: A vibrant bar and restaurant on Mirissa Beach that serves as a late-night hub where the beach life meets a lively party atmosphere, with music and dancing under the stars.
W15 Weligama: A luxury boutique hotel and bar on Weligama beach with a stunning pool. While relaxing during the day, it is known to organize big techno parties where guests can dance the night away.
Margherita At Sunset (Mirissa): This Italian restaurant and music café is known for hosting acoustic nights and full-moon beach parties, offering a blend of good food, music, and dancing.
Vibration Nightclub (Hikkaduwa): While slightly further up the coast, this is one of the region’s largest dedicated nightclubs, attracting a mix of locals and 90% foreigners with high-energy music, and is a key destination for serious party-goers.
The Doctor’s House (Matara): Located just a short drive from Mirissa in Matara, this highly famous venue features a huge garden, great pizza, and hosts massive open-sky parties every Wednesday and Saturday, often with live music from local bands, drawing crowds from all over the South Coast.