When it comes to travelling in Sri Lanka the country is very diverse and what we would suggest as far as recommendations really depends on what you are after? what’s on your must have list? what’s on your wish list? Also how much travel time per day you are ok with – you can spend quite a lot of time on the road and in a car in Sri Lanka. A heads up that short distances on the map are much longer in reality!
Still planning your Sri Lankan holiday? we do have a bespoke and personal travel agency here www.surfstaysrilanka.com – it is primarily surf focused however can cover much more than that depending on what you need. We also know some people love to arrange all their own details of their trip and in that case we are also happy to share our recommendations to point you in the right direction.
For now though lets start closer to “home” from where Ebb & Flow Jungalows is based in Midigama. While you will find a few great local recommendations below, its our “Jungle Pack” that contains a huge list of juicy recommendations – you will spot it on your terrace when you arrive at Ebb & Flow!
- Midigama – where you will find Ebb & Flow Jungalows
Ebb & Flow is located in Midigama, a busy little surf village. This is without a doubt the best place to base yourself for all things surf – with surf rental, surf repair and surf lessons and guiding all available in the immediate area. Next door to Ebb & Flow there is “Mama’s Restaurant” that serves great local snacks, soft drinks and coconuts. Fresh Juices available at Manake’s on the other side. You will find a cafe “Sun and Soul” a short walk down the road (with great iced coffees and cakes). We have complimentary bicycles for you to borrow at the Jungalows so you can go for a ride through the paddy fields (just 2km away) or a trip down to the swimming beach at Gurubebila – just 1km away.
- Weligama – just 5 minutes by tuktuk!
The spot for beginner surf is Weligama beach, this is a busier town with more restaurants and bars dotted all along the coast. Check out W15 for sundowners, its a chic yet laid back beach hotel and restaurant. Hangtime Hostel is another good spot, and has a laid back family vibe during the day and a more social atmosphere at night – they are not yet licensed but are known for their legendary burgers and the best coffee in Weligama.
- Marissa – just 15 minutes by tuktuk!
Further south still from Weligama you will find Marissa, this is a quaint little bay with great swimming and even a low key surf spot. A party place in the peak season but family friendly during the day – check out Zephyr for sunset drinks and the best fusion food, although the bay is dotted with lots of little bars and restaurants… walk along the beach and take your pick!
- Unawatuna – just 30 minutes by tuktuk!
Heading North from Ebb & Flow Junalows you have Unawatuna. “Unawatuna” is a busy little street that runs mostly along the sea and is filled with restaurants and almost unlimited beach dining options. It is more touristy than any of the above places but a great spot if you fancy a social atmosphere. Kingfisher is our top recommendation for consistently good food, cocktails and service and is one is one of the more sophisticated places in the area. KoKos on the beach does excellent burgers, simple but tasty and excellent value for money. and Koha Lounge offers a laid back drinking atmosphere (it is not on the beach) with low cushion seating. The best food in the area is without a doubt Bedspace – run by two chefs this is the best place for foodies, a laid back kitchen in a lush little courtyard they serve up arguably the best food in the whole of the South of Sri Lanka. They are known for their famous dinner parties, however now have opened a restaurant and cafe (open after breakfast).
- Galle Fort- just 40 minutes by tuktuk!
The historic Galle Fort, also a world UNESCO site is worthy of a full day of wandering, dining and shopping – quaint little streets and cafes nestled in courtyards or on rooftops. The area is full of picturesque beauty and old world charm. Top recommendations include Crepelogy does great coffee (their Mint Mocha’s are out of this world! and hearty breakfasts, while Fortaleza is my pick for a more of a traditional dining experience (a good romantic date spot) – it boasts fusion food and an extensive wine list!