Negombo beach is a largest Sri Lanka’s beach resort that only 15 minutes from the Airport Colombo. If you do not like long transfers, this is just about the best option for a beach holiday or end of tour beach stay in Sri Lanka. It is also a great choice if you want a stopover night to relax on the beach on arrival prior to the start of an island tour, or to recharge yourself after a long flight.
The main resort area lies to the north of town along a beach road called Lewis Place, where lots of local restaurants, shops and bars alternate between beach hotels that are aimed at a mix of budget, 3 star and 5 star holidaymakers. Negombo therefore attracts a very cosmopolitan group of holidaymakers, which is very nice in itself.
Among fishing villages to the north of Negombo these are quiet Waikkal and Marawila resorts that are also ideal for those who do not want long Airport transfers. The hotels tend to be ‘club’ concept with all-inclusive accommodation and meal options. They have the advantage of easy access for day trips to the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, Kandy and even the Cultural Triangle if you get away with an early morning start.
Negombo contains a long, sandy beach that is very wide in places, especially towards the northern end. It is ideal for beach games like football and volleyball. The sea is not very suitable for sea-bathing as it shelves sharply from the beach.
One can’t truthfully say that Waikkal and Marawila beaches here are that great as there is a lot of sea erosion on this coastline. The big resorts regularly make artificial beaches by pumping sand from the sea. The sea is not at all suitable for sea-bathing due to strong currents.
Diving is possible on outer reefs from November – April. The closer dive sites are about 5 to 8 Km away from the shore. For experienced divers only (30 minute boat ride) there is a further “third” reef (about 22 Km away).
Attractions for visiting such as the Muthurajawela marshes which is home to many varieties of fauna, flora and birds, 100 km long canal network, the Dutch Fort built in 1672, the ancient churches, the second largest fish market in the country along with the daily fish auctions, lagoon boat rides and much more. Negombo also provides easy access to Dolphin and Whale watching at Kalpitiya and the Wilpattu National Park.
Best time to go in winter season: November – April. The beaches are at their best at this time with fine weather and calm seas.
Summer Season: May – October. During the off season, Negombo becomes a lot quieter but is still popular as summer holidaymakers use the resort as a stopover for a day or two on arrival or prior to departure from the island.
Transfer by car:
- Airport – Negombo (Lewis Place): 20 Minutes,
- Airport – Waikkal: 40 Minutes,
- Airport – Marawila: 1 Hour.
