Away from the more popular beaches of Galle and Mirissa, Negombo offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s stunning Northern coasts. Explore this underrated seaside gem, with a guide to your next holiday in Negombo.
Getting to Negombo
Image by S B via wikimedia commons
Located just minutes from the international airport, getting from your flight to any guesthouses and beach hotels in Negombo is fast and convenient. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and PickMe are the fastest options, while highway buses and trains offer a more scenic, leisurely route.
The Beaches
Negombo’s beaches are expansive, featuring endless stretches of golden sands and shallow flats. A 10-minute walk away from hotels like Sentido Heritance Negombo, Negombo Beach is the town’s most popular option, with ample amenities, colourful fishing outriggers, picnicking families, and gorgeous sunset views. Dungalpitiya Beach is a quieter, yet underrated alternative, with an untamed coast and clear waters.
The Lagoon
Beyond the beach, Negombo’s famed lagoon is a must-visit. Spilling out into the Ocean, the lagoon’s mangrove ecosystem and clusters of green are rich in biodiversity. Encounter islands of monkeys on boat tours, pick out fresh clams from the lagoon bed, explore the Mangrove Park, or head to Dutch Trails for a kayaking adventure.
Cultural Sites
Known as Sri Lanka’s “Little Rome”, Negombo’s streets are marked by generations of colonialism and seafaring trade. Visit the Dutch Fort for remnants of turbulent European rule, or head to St. Mary’s Church and St. Anne’s Church to trace the very beginnings of Catholicism in the country. Finally, meet Negombo’s fishing communities at the impressive Fish Market, and learn the ways of an age-old trade.
Where to Eat
Negombo offers a range of culinary options, from local fare to international cuisine. Virtually every street is lined with a variety of restaurants; head to Porututa Road for charming Italian eateries and cosy pubs, or Dutch Trails for kottu by the lagoon.
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