The Best Things to do in Ahangama, Sri Lanka’s Bohemian Hotspot
A palm-tree-lined beach treasure along Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, Ahangama has exploded onto the travel scene in recent years. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your visit, including where to stay, eat, and play, how to get there, and plenty more.
The story of Sri Lanka’s southern coastal town of Ahangama is unfurling just as that of many coastal spots often does: hushed whispers of a palm-fringed coastline where the surf is perfect, the living breezy.
A secret paradise where barefoot wanderers and salty surfers, burnouts and those-in-the-know alike put down roots and enjoy a slower, coconut-fuelled existence.
For a time, this was also the tale of Unawatuna, Mirissa, and Hikkaduwa further along the Sri Lankan south coast, but as the tourists started flocking and the bamboo scaffolding and sounds of development roared to life, the surfers moved on to find their next barefoot nomad hangout.
Ahangama is where they’ve landed.
In many ways, it’s surprising that this little slip of coastline along Sri Lanka’s cacophonic Matara highway hasn’t breezed onto the radar of travellers outside the surfing community earlier. Wedged between the ever-popular beach hubs of Unawatuna and Weligama, with easy access from the capital of Colombo and a main drag buzzing with a steady stream of tuk-tuks, roaring buses and noisy daily life, it’s neither sleepy nor tucked away down an adventurous jungle path.
The delights of Ahangama are, rather, pretty much laid out right in front of you from the second you reach its fringes.
To one side, the rolling Indian ocean tempts bronzed surfing faithful to pay ritual to it morning and night, its sandy shoreline filling up with a mix of surf schools, laidback barefoot beach bar terraces and slick eateries transplanted from the capital or shores further afield.
To the other, thick coconut groves flank crumbling colonial-era Art Deco villa fixer-uppers and pot-holey dirt tracks weave between green fields and steaming jungle peppered with colourful homes and the occasional hotel.
While many a travel guide would have you believe this is still a sleepy surf and fishing town, we’d disagree - partly. From its quiet, rural beginnings, Ahangama has well and truly emerged as one of Sri Lanka’s ‘it’ places to be and be seen, and that pace is only set to increase in the next few years as more wanderers are drawn to the coastline in search of its surf and culinary and artistic offerings.
But where do agree with its sleepy moniker is that, so far, many of the establishments that have popped up have been able to imbue a real sense of sleepy barefoot luxury within their cafes, bars or hotels.
It was a vibe we enjoyed enough to have extended our stay in the area, and one we hope continues as the area keeps developing.
These are our favourite things to do in Ahangama, plus advice on the best places to rest your head, our favourite spots to eat and enjoy a sunset tipple, and tips on transport connections to help you plan your itinerary.
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AHANGAMA TRAVEL GUIDE OVERVIEW
WHAT TO DO | Lazy beach days, Surf, or learn to surf, day-trip to Galle Fort, visit Handunugoda Tea Estate, pool days at PALM, sunset cocktails
WHERE TO STAY | Kurulu Bay, Panta Rei Resort, or Maria Bonita
WHERE TO EAT | The Kip, Hotel de Uncles, Crust pizza, Abode by the Beach
HOW TO GET THERE | South coast train, local bus, tuk-tuk, private transfer
HOW TO GET AROUND | Tuk-tuk, scooter
WHERE TO STAY IN AHANGAMA
With Ahangama’s rise in popularity has come an influx of excellent accommodation options in town, catering for all types of travellers - from those who have seen the finest in barefoot luxury, to backpackers keen to get amongst the waves, on as little money as possible.
We’ve written a complete guide to Ahangama’s best hotels, but below are our top picks for each budget.
KURULU BAY
Kurulu Bay is our definition of barefoot luxury and is by far the most beautiful hotel in Ahangama.
There are 12 rooms in total, all taking inspiration from Sri Lanka’s greatest architect, Geoffrey Bawa - think polished concrete, bespoke furniture and soft linens, but with 5* luxury in almost every corner, plus a minimalist pool, and poolside terrace, where the excellent restaurant serves up a locally-inspired all-day menu.
Balancing luxury, design and nature, Kurulu Bay is the perfect retreat for discerning travellers.
BOOK | Kurulu Bay
PANTA REI RESORT
Panta Rei Resort is the perfect boutique resort for those wanting a little luxury, without the hefty price tag.
The resort features 12 bungalows with differing setups, inspired by the boho-minimalism of Bali or Mexico. The rooms are huge, and there’s the large, inviting central pool and leafy communal area, which features a restaurant and bar serving excellent food and cocktails.
This is probably the most family-friendly resort on this list, so book away if you’re bringing the family to Sri Lanka.
BOOK | Panta Rei Resort
MARIA BONITA
A hidden gem in Ahangama, Maria Bonita shows that despite the town’s burgeoning popularity, it is possible to find an affordable, quaint hotel that feels like a home away from home.
The rooms are thoughtfully decorated, blending tropical charm with a bohemian vibe. While there isn’t a pool, two of Ahangama’s best beaches are just a short tuk-tuk ride away.
Christina, the warm and attentive owner, along with her exceptional team, goes above and beyond. From scooter rentals to arranging transport and serving divine banana bread and smoothie bowls, their hospitality is unmatched.
BOOK | Maria Bonita
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN AHANGAMA
EMBRACE LONG, LAZY BEACH DAYS
Ahangama doesn’t tend to be the first coastline that springs to mind when Sri Lanka’s best beaches are being mulled over. Those accolades are usually saved for Hiriketiya, Tangalle, Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, or Unawatuna, though we promise you that that’s all about to change.
Once the sleepy, salty secret of the southern coastline, Ahangama’s local beaches have exploded in popularity in recent years, becoming cool not just for surfers in the know, but for everything a beach-lover could want; coconuts, sun beds, beautiful beaches, and plenty of vibe.
Kabalana is our pick of the bunch, a wide expanse of sand that, at times, looks like it could be dropped straight from the Maldives. Its golden sands and sun-kissed shores are gorgeous, flanked by towering palms and non-descript beach bars offering delicious kottu and tasty juices.
There is a heap of cheap sunbeds to lay your head on after a refreshing dip, and a few surf schools for those keen to learn (it’s probably the best place to learn to surf in Ahangama). We found it the best option for young families too - lots of room to run around and gentle waves at the shoreline.
Ahangama Beach (the main beach in the heart of town) is small - no more than 200m long and not very wide - but it is home to all the best beachside bars and cafes, which makes it an appealing stretch of sand. A reef protects the shore from the large Indian Ocean waves, making it the ideal place to relax the day away. It does, however, get very busy, so stick to the western corner for the best stretch of sand.
Finally, it wouldn’t be Sri Lanka without mention of a Secret Beach. Ahangama’s secret beach is pretty well kept, a delightful and often deserted cove flanked by palms on the way to Midigama. More chilled than rolling barrels, the beach is protected by boulders which makes it ideal for families.
SURF AHANGAMA’S FAMOUS BREAKS, OR LEARN TO SURF
Like many of Sri Lanka’s popular beachside towns, Ahangama’s reputation initially grew as a surfing hotspot, with some of the best breaks on the southern coast luring surfers since the 60’s.
Lately, it’s gone to a whole new level, with local surf schools and houses offering the surfing community a place to eat, sleep and breathe surfing.
Breaks such as Insight/Marshmallows, Sticks, Animals, Gas Stations, Sion, and Dreamsea Left are often busy from dawn to dusk, and the ease of getting between the best breaks along the rest of the southern coastline, be they in Weligama or Unawatuna, makes Ahangama the perfect place to base yourself for a surfing adventure.
EXPERIENCED SURFERS
If you’re coming to Ahangama to surf, you probably already know of the best breaks. However, below is a little breakdown of the best surf spots in town and surrounds:
INSIGHT/MARSHMALLOWS | A reef break with mellow waves allowing for smooth, long rides. Suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers who know their stuff, as well as beginners who are looking to push themselves (with a guide). The most popular break in town.
STICKS | Another reef break for intermediate and advanced surfers. Hard to get out to due to the rocks, but the fast rides with multiple peaks make it worth it. Just watch out for the shallow reef.
THE ROCK | A reef break at Kabalana Beach that serves up consistent waves. Nab a famous A-frame and you’ll be in surfing heaven.
GAS STATION | Another reef break famous for both left and right-hand waves. Easy to get in and out via the close by beach, which makes it popular. Another for the advanced surfers
Beyond Ahangama, some of the best breaks nearby include Lazy Left, Lazy Right, Plantations, Coconuts, and Ram's in Midigama, and Weligama Beach, Fishermen's, and The Island in Weligama.
FIRST-TIMER SURF SPOTS
For beginner surfers, Kabalana Beach is a great place to learn, with warm waters, cheap boards and easy waves the perfect combination to catch that first wave. There are several small surf schools set up along the beach.
Alternatively, probably the best place to learn to surf in Sri Lanka is in nearby Weligama (10 mins). Built for surfers, there are hundreds of surf schools located right on the beach - just turn up, speak to a tout and you’ll be learning your way around a board just a few minutes later.
A 1 - 1.5 hour lesson will teach you the basics of surfing including how to stand up, paddling for a wave, surfing etiquette, and safety. This is where we learned to surf, and somehow, we both managed to stand within our first five waves, and the thrill was incredible.
The downside of learning to surf is of course, other learners. It can become super busy, especially during high season, so we suggest arriving early (at sunrise) to have the waves all to yourself.
ENJOY THE BRUNCH SCENE
Ahangama has a lot of, dare we say it, Bali vibes about it. Endless tropical-modernist eateries dot the coast and countryside, making it a bit of a foodie paradise.
During our time there, we found an almost overwhelming number of hipster cafes and brunch spots filled with avo toast, smoothie bowls, and delicious coffee in abundance. These cafes are usually on the pricier side but well worth it.
Housed in a delightfully airy garden hangout where staff whisk wooden platters filled with locally sourced vegetarian delights from kitchen to table, The Kip (open 8 am-3 pm daily) is the OG brunch cafe in Ahangama. Serving an all-day, locally sourced, and earth-friendly brunch, choose from 3, 4 or 5 pieces between breads, spreads, savoury, and sweets, accompanied by coffee, tea or a smoothie. Don’t sleep on the potato hash with leek, nor the smoothie bowl. The coffee is exceptional, maybe the best on the island.
Cactus, overlooking dreamy Ahangama beach, is the popular, oft-full brunch hotspot that is the perfect place to start your day. There’s a great selection of savoury and sweet options - we chose the shroom bagel and fluffy chocolate pancakes - both delicious, and both recommended. The iced coffee, while not the best, is still better than most found on the island. Portions are super generous (you won’t leave hungry), and prices are a little higher than elsewhere, but for the view, it’s worth it.
Palm Hotel might be a little away from the chaos of town, but it’s one of the most serene settings to enjoy a long, slow, brunch. And they do a damn good brunch at that. The traditional Sri Lankan breakfast; string hoppers, dhal and coconut sambol, is an absolute favourite of ours (we often prefer Sri Lankan breakfasts over Western), and the coconut milk rice with pomegranate was moreish. The coffee is good, and the iced milo is even better.
Below are a few more brunch options in Ahangama:
BLACK HONEY CAFE | Beautifully designed daytime café serving innovative breakfast fare and outstanding coffee in the backroads of Kabalana
SISTERS AWAY | Must-vist brunch spot in Kabalana serving delicious home-baked bread by Turkish sister duo
DREAMSEA | Smoothie bowls and avo-toast are favourites at this popular surf camp
BROWSE AHANGAMA’S BOUTIQUES AND MARKETS
The arrival of the bohemian surf set and their cool cafes and hotels in Ahangama has also heralded the pop up of many an equally cool boutique and market, perfect for satisfying any shopping cravings! From surf shops to slow-living boutiques, there’s no denying that a creative and entrepreneurial scene is flourishing along this stretch of coastline
Some of our favourite options include:
PRICKLY PEAR BOUTIQUE | This super tiny boutique attached to Cactus stocks a range of cool travel and surf essentials, from jewellery to Source + Supply journals, surfwear and tees to incense holders and plenty more. It’s also a nice place to spend a few minutes browsing in glorious air conditioning if the heat of the day is starting to wear you down!
CEYLON SLIDERS | Weligama’s most famous restaurant and boutique has popped up here in Ahangama, bringing with it a gallery showcasing local photographers and artists and plenty of other hand-picked goods from the island and around the world.
THE KIP BOUTIQUE | Once you’ve managed to roll yourself away from your brunch table at The Kip, head up the little garden path towards their boutique. As with their cafe, the focus here is honouring the abundance of local craft and skills in this part of the world, and their small, beautifully curated range of ceramics, linens, and homewares are locally sourced and supplied.
CAFE CEYLON MARKETS | Cafe Ceylon’s surf shop runs all day onsite at their cafe, but they also run a monthly market supporting locally produced, sustainable brands, along with live music, workshops and food. Keep up to date with their event schedule here
STUDIO MUKTI | An intentional and sustainable collection of jewellery, clothing, and homegoods made small-scale in Sri Lanka by local artisans
ENJOY MANY SUNSET COCKTAILS
Positioned perfectly for a daily dose of Sri Lanka’s famed golden sunsets, Ahangama Beach is filled with sunset bars offering exceptional cocktails, delicious small bites, excellent tunes, and some of the best vibes on the Island.
Our favourite is Hotel de Uncle’s, a south coast offshoot of one of Colombo’s best bars. A ‘roti shop with a secret,’ this vibrant, funky bar is one of the hottest places in town, serving a range of local cocktails and classics with an ode to Island living.
We spent a fantastic afternoon on the deck, listening to disco beats, sipping on pandan-fused cocktails and nibbling on a sumptuous dhal curry and cheese roti while watching the sunset. We suggest arriving early, grabbing a stool on the balcony, and settling in for a long night.
Nearby, Weligama favourite Ceylon Sliders has opened their Ahangama offshoot, and it’s one of the more upscale bars we’ve been to on the island. Reminiscent of a hipster Canggu beachside bar, Ceylon Sliders serves excellent cocktails, even better food, and brilliant views of sunset. In the evening, local DJs play disco and funk, and the decking comes alive with beautiful people enjoying the end of the day.
For food, we highly suggest the sesame-crusted tuna - it’s one of the best seafood meals we’ve ever had. Additionally, 2 for 1 cocktails are offered before 6 pm. Arrive early to grab a beachside table as they fill up very quickly.
There are several other bars that dot the coastline from Kabalana Beach to Midigama, including the very popular Lighthouse, the laidback Abode by the Beach (more on that below), Hakuna Matata, and Thileni’s. Each has its appeal, depending on your vibe. If you’re in town for a few days, try them all.
SPEND A DAY BY THE POOL AT PALM HOTEL
If you’re looking to escape the sand and swells, but still want to relax by water, Palm Hotel has the most calming and sumptuous pool in which to spend a lazy afternoon.
We were fortunate enough to stay at Palm for five nights, and there was nothing better than jumping into the pool and reading a book under the shade. Thankfully though, it’s not just reserved for guests - you can purchase a day pass and laze by the pool, sip cocktails, and snack on small bites. Gym access is also included in your day pass.
It’s a 15-minute ride from town (LKR 1,200 by tuk tuk).
THE DETAILS
Where | Palm Hotel Ahangama
Cost | LKR 7,000, deductible from food + drink. Free welcome drink included
Note | Any tables/sun beds without a “reserved” sign are free game
RIDE THE FAMOUS SOUTH COAST TRAIN
A warm sea breeze wafts through the stifling carriage, taking with it the scent of the ocean and the heavy humidity. Swaying palms fly past in a blur, and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean seemingly lap just metres from the tracks. Inside, we manage to snag a seat alongside a local family and tuck into a still-warm samosa we bought at the station.
The view outside is mesmerising; a kaleidoscope of colours, snapshots of daily life that flicker by in an instant. We sit for hours, eyes glued to the right, watching the world go by station by station, village by village, beach by beach, before arriving at the barrels and beach bars of Sri Lanka’s south coast.
While not as popular as the Kandy to Ella train, riding the south coast train to Ahangama (and beyond) is one of the great travel experiences you can have.
Whether it is a short trip from Unawatuna or a long ride from Colombo, we suggest making a train trip in Sri Lanka a priority - you can book your tickets for some Sri Lankan train journeys in advance here, or simply rock up and grab a ticket at the station. Additionally, the Art Deco stations along the south coast are some of the most picturesque in the country.
Just remember to always sit ocean side.
THE DETAILS
What | Sri Lanka South Coast train
BOOK | Buy Sri Lanka train tickets
TAKE A DAY TRIP TO COLONIAL GALLE FORT
Galle Fort is one of the unmissable points of interest on any Sri Lankan itinerary.
The Fort is unlike any other place we’ve found in Sri Lanka; a mix of tumbledown colonial buildings and boho-chic getaways plonked in the delicious salty tropics. It’s a melting pot of culture and religion bursting with colour, and where, thankfully, the taste of Ceylon tea and cinnamon is never far away.
The Fort is rapidly gentrifying as chic boutiques, cafes, and hotels begin to restore the whitewashed Dutch colonial buildings back to their former glory, but it only takes ducking down a quiet laneway to feel as though you’ve travelled back to the 1700s again.
Alluring, exotic, and loveable, Galle Fort is one of the unmissable points of interest on your Sri Lankan itinerary. There is a heap of must-sees (we've written a blog post about the best things to do in Galle Fort) including:
Galle Lighthouse
Explore the exterior and interior of the Galle Fort, and visit the historical sights
Shop till you drop. Galle Fort has the best shopping we encountered in all of Sri Lanka
Watch the technicolour sunset from the Fort walls
THE DETAILS
Where | Galle Fort
Where to stay in Galle | Search and book Galle Fort accommodation here
READ | Our comprehensive Galle Fort guide, where to stay in Galle Fort
HIT UP OTHER SOUTHERN COAST HOTSPOTS
We’ve spent a lot of time on the southern coast of Sri Lanka on multiple trips now, and absolutely love it. There’s nowhere quite like it, and we know many of our readers will be slowly making their way along the coast, before heading inland to see the wilds of Udawalawe or Yala, and the highlands of Ella and Kandy.
After our latest trip, we recommend basing yourself in Ahangama and exploring the surrounding beach towns on slow day trips, as the vibe is second to none, and it’s right in the middle of all the action.
These are some of our favourite towns on the south coast which are within a short tuk-tuk ride/bus/train ride of Ahangama:
WELIGAMA | Weligama is the largest town in the area, and home to an excellent brunch, cafe and co-work scene, plus the perfect place to learn to surf. Stop by Plan B for brunch (and co-working if you need), take a surf, and end the day with rooftop cocktails and Ceylon Sliders
MIRISSA | A quintessential beachside town set up for backpackers, Mirissa’s expansive golden sand beach with wonderful surf (and a whale migration!), proximity to Colombo, Galle, Udawalawe and Ella, and cheap accommodation and food make it super popular. Stop by Shady Lane for delicious smoothie bowls, and Secret Beach for a chilled afternoon swim
UNAWATUNA | With a vibe similar to that of backpacker haunts in Thailand or Cambodia, Unawatuna is home to hipster cafes and a large stretch of golden sands perfect for watersports. Unfortunately, post the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the town has become mini-Moscow and has lost a lot of its authenticity in the years since we first visited. Still, it’s a fun place for a day trip, to see the Japanese Peace Pagoda, Jungle Beach, and to visit Wild and the Sage book cafe for a lazy afternoon
Additionally, Thalpe rock pools, Dalawela & Mihiripenna Beach, and Midigama are all worth a stop.
VISIT HANDUNUGODA TEA PLANTATION
Ceylon tea is the best in the world, but the highlands of Ella and Nuwara Eliya are far away from the barrels of Ahangama. Thankfully, for those who don’t have the time or opportunity to head to the hill country, the Handunugoda Tea Estate (Herman Teas), located in the hills nearby, provides a chance to learn, understand and sample Sri Lanka’s most famous export along the southern coastline.
The 60-year-old estate is renowned for its production of Virgin White Tea, a rare variety of tea that is handpicked and processed without ever touching human hands. This ancient process results in a tea that is rich in antioxidants, making it sought-after around the world by those who wish to remain young and healthy. The estate also produces a range of other teas, including classic black teas, oolong, and green teas.
The plantation runs tours of its grounds ($2 USD), providing a fascinating insight into the process of tea making, from the initial plucking of the leaves to the final stages of drying and fermentation.
The tour ends with a Sapphire Oolong tea-tasting session complete with chocolate cake (worth the $2 fee alone!), and the opportunity to buy tea directly from the estate. While not for everyone, we enjoyed the tour as a brief escape from the beach.
THE DETAILS
Where | Handunugoda Tea Estate, Ahangama
Cost | 600 LKR / $2 USD
How to get there | Return tuk-tuk - LKR 2,000
CYCLE THE SCENIC BACK ROADS
While the beach and sunsets are the main players in Ahangama, the backroads and jungles that circle the town are home to some pretty stunning scenery.
Grab a bicycle and discover scenic rice paddies, lakes, and local wildlife along the backroads of Ahangama with Jungle Rides by Aja, who offers comfortable 2-hour bike tours deep into the local area, stopping only for epic views and the freshest king coconuts.
We found cycling through the backroads gave us a really authentic insight into exactly what life is like around rural Sri Lanka. Aja is an absolute wealth of knowledge when it comes to the local flora and fauna, so we definitely recommend using him as your guide (although it is possible to head out for a cycle solo if that takes your fancy instead).
THE DETAILS
Where | Jungle Rides by Aja - Ahangama back roads
Cost | 4,000 LKR / $12 USD - book directly with Aja through Instagram here
Time | 1.5 - 2 hours
ELEPHANT SPOTTING ON SAFARI IN UDAWALAWE NP
Surf in the morning, spot elephants on safari in the evening… sounds incredible, right? While not exactly in Ahangama, it is possible to do a day trip to the wilds of Udawalawe National Park, home to Sri Lanka’s largest herd of elephants, and many other animals.
Sprawling across the southern lowlands, Udawalawe is one of the most popular parks in Sri Lanka and although the park's landscape is fairly monotonous, it provides the best viewing opportunities for elephants and other fauna. In fact, during our multiple visits to the national park, we spotted well over 20 elephants including a number of impossibly cute bubs. It’s also possible to spot buffalo, monkeys, deer, crocodiles and leopards (although the latter is extremely rare).
Expect to spend around 4 hours in a vehicle, and pay upwards of $400 USD for the pleasure, but we think it’s worth it if you’re only in Sri Lanka for a short time. For those staying longer, we suggest spending a night in Udawalawe as a minimum on your way to the highlands/Ella.
To learn more about Udawalawe National Park, read our detailed guide here.
THE DETAILS
Where | Udawalawe National Park
Cost | LKR 3,500 per person entry. An eight-seater safari jeep will cost around LKR 3,500 for a morning hire
Where to stay in Udawalawe | Search and book Uda Walawe National Park accommodation here
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN AHANGAMA
As mentioned above, Ahangama has quickly developed into somewhat of a foodie paradise, with a blend of local and Western cafes, bars and restaurants pushing the boundary and providing good options for Sri Lankan, modern fusion, and even dirty burgers.
Seemingly every day, a new, must-visit cafe is opened, and although it’s not very budget-friendly at times, the main hub of Ahangama is the place to visit in the early evening.
Below is an overview of some recommended places to eat and drink in Ahangama:
CITRA | Upmarket, but worth it for one of the best meals on the Island. Expect Mediterranean and Sri Lankan-influenced seafood and vegetarian share plates overloaded with fresh and flavourful ingredients, plus a great selection of wine and cocktails. Reservations essential @Citrasrilanka
ABODE BY THE BEACH | Little beachy sister to hip Bombay hotel with a focus on seafood and small bites overlooking Sion surf break. The coconut tacos were out of this world, and don't miss the cocktails @abode.bythebeach
TRAX | Housed in a beautifully restored colonial house behind the train line between Ahangama and Kabalana, Trax serves delicious cocktails and is open till late with local and international DJs @trax_ahangama
BIG MIGHTY DELI | Tropical Deli + cool spot serving fast food (tasty burgers, sandwiches and salads) on the main road by Ceylon Sliders. With a lovely beer garden out the back, it’s the place to visit after too many rice & curries @bigmightydeli
CRUST PIZZA | Serving local-style pizza and tacos with a sunset viewing deck and tables spilling onto Ahangama beach, Crust is a vibe. Next door is Uncles if you’re keen on cocktails and a boogie after dinner @crust_ahangama
HOTEL DE UNCLES | A recent pop-up from the team behind one of Colombo’s best-loved establishments, this ‘roti shop with a secret’ serves up bloody good grub to some of the most beautiful beach people we’ve ever laid eyes on. @Hoteldeuncles
LAMANA | Restaurant and bar bang in the middle of Ahangama with its own skate bowl. Expect a heaving and hot night on their Thursday party night. @lamana_ahangama
LIGHTHOUSE | Hands-down the most popular sunset spot amongst the locals and you'll know why after climbing the 4 flights of stairs and spotting the 180-degree views of the ocean @Lighthouse_ahangama
MANORI'S KITCHEN | A local favourite in the back roads of Ahangama, serving excellent home-cooked Sri Lankan dishes.
MARSHMELLOW CAFE | A fave beachside cafe and surf shop serving up the usual favourites and an extensive menu of excellent coffee and iced drinks @marshmellowcafe.srilanka
SRI LANKAN RICE & CURRY HOUSE | Run by the most beautiful family in town, expect excellent, local rice and curry at affordable prices. Offers both vegetarian and non-veg options
SOUL & SURF | A surf and yoga retreat serving cocktails and fresh bites in a small cove overlooking stilt fishermen and the tropical sunset. Have an afternoon boogie during their family-friendly Sunday Sessions @Canteen_bysoulandsurf
THINGS TO DO IN AHANGAMA MAP
We’ve created a detailed map of the best places to visit in Ahangama, as well as where to eat, which you can download for your visit.
To save our map, click the star to the right of the map title, which will download the map to: your places - maps in your Google account.
Easy!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO AHANGAMA + FAQS
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT AHANGAMA
The best time to visit Ahangama is anytime from October - April, as the monsoon rains have passed and the temperatures are fairly stable. This is also the best time to surf.
That being said, the absolute BEST time to visit is between January - March, when low rainfall and calmer seas provide the perfect weather to explore or learn to surf.
We’ve been told to avoid visiting during the wet season, when the town shuts down for the season, and the surf is average. Some places will remain open, but it’ll be quiet, wet and lack any sort of vibe.
If you’re travelling to Sri Lanka during this period, head towards Arugam Bay instead.
HOW TO GET TO AHANGAMA
// TAXI / PRIVATE CAR
By far the quickest and most comfortable option, taking a taxi or private transfer to Ahangama will save you time, but cost a lot more than other options. If your budget permits, we suggest taking a taxi (we did this on our most recent trip and it was wonderful).
THE DETAILS
Cost | LKR 30,000 (AUD $150, USD $80)
// TRAIN
As mentioned above, the most scenic way to get from Colombo or Galle to Ahangama is via train to Ahangama Station.
The train, which runs along the palm-fringed coast the majority of the journey, is one of the best in Sri Lanka.
The Colombo Fort to Southern Coast trains departs 7 times a day (less on weekends), with the earliest departure at 6:55 am and the final departure at 18:05. It takes around 1.5 hours. We recommend travelling outside of peak hours to avoid packed trains and an uncomfortable journey (we’ve taken the 10:30 am train many times without issue).
We highly recommend you book your tickets in advance, which you can do here.
THE DETAILS
Cost | LKR 260 per person for 2nd class, LKR 145 per person for 3rd class
Departure Times | From Colombo Fort to Ahangama: commence 0655, 0835, 1030, 1425, 1550, 1646, 1730, 1735, 1805
BOOK | Book your Sri Lanka train tickets here
// BUS
Local buses depart Colombo Fort to Galle every 15 minutes throughout the day and take around 2.5 hrs depending on traffic. Local buses tend to be busy, crazy and chaotic, but ultimately, super fun and cheap. From Galle bus station, take a 30-minute tuk to Ahangama, or another local bus along the coast.
Alternatively, you can take a private bus to either Galle or Matara and then a tuk-tuk from either destination. The A/C bus departs from Kudawela bus station in Colombo’s east and follows the newly completed inland highway. You’re guaranteed a seat, and the air-conditioning is a welcome relief in Sri Lanka.
THE DETAILS
Cost | LKR 350 - LKR 400 per person
Departure Times | Every 15 minutes from 5 am
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL IN SRI LANKA
Responsible, sustainable travel is what we’re all about here at TCW HQ, and this is especially true when we travel to places suffering from climate change and plastic pollution, such as Sri Lanka.
TRAVEL DURING SHOULDER SEASON | Shoulder season is the time before and after the peak season when things are quieter, cheaper, and more enjoyable. Travel then to reduce over-tourism, and extend the season for local operators
DON’T BUY BOTTLED DRINKS | Please, for the love of the ocean: DO NOT BUY SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BOTTLES! You'll understand why when you see a bunch of plastic bottles bob past you in the open sea. Buy one of these fantastic bottles instead
USE LESS WATER | To help reduce the pressure on water supplies, keep your water usage to a minimum. We know that’s hard to do on holidays, but quick showers, and turning the tap off when brushing your teeth, cleaning etc. help
OCEAN-FRIENDLY TOILETRIES | Everything that goes down the boat drain ends up in the ocean, try and make sure all your toiletries, sunscreen, and shampoo is as ocean-friendly as possible! Solid bars are a great place to start (see below to buy some eco-friendly toiletries).
DON’T USE PLASTIC BAGS | Pack a reusable tote and use these to carry your snacks, drinks, or new souvenirs instead
LEAVE NO TRACE | Limit your consumption of plastic, and opt for sustainable / zero-waste alternatives instead. Pack a reusable water bottle, bring your reusable coffee cup, and if you can’t sip your cocktails without a straw, bring a metal or bamboo one along instead. And never leave a trace...
BE ANIMAL-FRIENDLY | Observe sea creatures from a distance, don’t pick up wildlife like starfish or urchins, or grab onto turtles, dolphins, etc. If an animal wants to interact with you, it’ll approach you 🙂
SUPPORT THE LOCAL COMMUNITY | Visit a locally owned restaurant for a meal, which means both supporting the local economy and community and also giving you a real authentic experience.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN SRI LANKA
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
Here are our recommendations, based on 8+ years of full-time travel:
FOR TRAVELLERS | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out-of-pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
FOR DIGITAL NOMADS | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
CAR INSURANCE | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF SRI LANKA
SRI LANKA TRAVEL TIPS | 31 incredible things to do in Sri Lanka, Our essential 3-week Sri Lanka Itinerary, Our 7-day Sri Lanka Itinerary, Everything you need to know before you visit Sri Lanka (39 essential tips!)
SRI LANKA CITY GUIDES | We’ve got in-depth guides to Colombo, Galle, Kandy, Jaffna, Hiriketiya, Mirissa Beach
ACCOMMODATION GUIDES | Where to stay in Ahangama, The best hotels in Kandy, Where to stay in Hiriketiya, Where to stay in Galle
CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS | Our essential guides to both Sigiriya and Pidurangala, A guide to Polonnaruwa, How to visit Yala National Park, and Udawalawe National Park
TRANSPORT GUIDES | Our definitive guide to the Kandy to Ella train, how to get from Colombo to Kandy, how to get from Colombo to Galle
ELLA, SRI LANKA | Our complete guide to Ella, a guide to the Nine Arch Bridge, How to see Diyaluma Falls, Ella accommodation options for every budget (+ our recommendations)
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Read our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF SRI LANKA WITH OUR GUIDES
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That, and you're officially a legend.
