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Negombo, a coastal town in Sri Lanka, is known for its beautiful beaches, including Negombo Beach, Browns Beach, and Lapang Beach. Negombo beaches offer an irresistible mix of golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrating energy. Just minutes from the international airport of Sri Lanka, it is an ideal place for a relaxed time on sun-kissed beaches or an enthralling experience of water sports. Take a dip in the local culture, savour the seafood delicacies, and capture the moments while watching the sunsets painted in the sky in various hues.
Negombo Beaches Location
Photo: S B / Wikimedia Commons
Negombo Beaches are located on the west coast of Sri Lanka. They lie close to major cities like Colombo and Bandaranaike International Airport and are, therefore, quite accessible to travellers.
Suggested Read: Beaches In Sri Lanka Where The Golden Sandy Shores Await You
How To Reach Negombo Beaches
Photo: Zapata1000 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Negombo is conveniently located just a short distance from Bandaranaike International Airport, making it a popular choice for travellers arriving in Sri Lanka.
By Air: Negombo is easily accessible by air from Bandaranaike International Airport, located approximately 10 kilometres from the city. Accessing the beaches is possible via taxi, tuk-tuk, or pre-arranged airport transfer.
By Bus: Local buses offer a budget-friendly, comfortable, and time-efficient way to travel from Negombo to other parts of Sri Lanka.
By Rail: Negombo beaches are located 2.9 miles away from the Negombo Railway Station, while nearby stations include Kochchikade Railway Station and Katunayake Railway Station.
Places To Visit In And Around Negombo Beaches
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
Negombo and its surroundings offer a variety of attractions beyond its beautiful beaches. Here’s a list of places to visit in and around Negombo Beaches:
1. Negombo Lagoon
Photo: Achim Ebenau / WIkimedia Commons
Negombo Lagoon, locally referred to as Negombo Lake, is about 3,400 hectares in extent and roughly 8 kilometres in length. It hosts the most diverse range of flora and fauna and provides diverse bird species with a habitat, along with mangrove forests. Mangrove swamps line the lagoon fringes, playing an important role in coastal defence and nursery grounds for marine life. However, it faces challenges such as pollution and habitat degradation, and conservation efforts are crucial to protect mangroves, maintain water quality, and support sustainable fishing practices.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Suggested Read: Beaches In Galle Where An Immersive Experience Along The Sandy Shores Await You
2. St. Mary’s Church
Photo: Rodhullandemu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
St. Mary’s Church is an exceedingly significant Roman Catholic place of worship, possessing exceptional historical and architectural values. The church was founded in the early 19th century and has been the subject of successive re-utilisations and extensions. Distinguished from the rest, the church displays an extensive mixture of colonial and Gothic veneer. Undoubtedly, St. Mary’s Church is a central place of worship for all the Catholic faithful living in the locality, whether it be a daily mass or any other special or religious event.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Angurukaramulla Temple
Photo: Z thomas / Wikimedia Commons
Angurukaramulla Temple, also known as Angurukaramulla Raja Maha Viharaya, is one of the main Buddhist temples in Negombo. It is several hundred years old, thus holding both historical and cultural value for the local community of Buddhists. It has a big ornate gate with carvings and sculptures, a large Buddha statue, frescoes, murals, and a stupa (dagoba) containing relics and providing a focus for meditation and worship. It is an active place of worship where Buddhist monks conduct regular services, meditation sessions, and religious ceremonies.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Discover The Top Best Beaches In Colombo
4. Hamilton Canal
Photo: David Stanley / Wikimedia Commons
Hamilton Canal is one of the important historical and ecological features in Sri Lanka. The canal was constructed by the Dutch during the 17th century to move goods and people from Colombo to northern parts of Sri Lanka, largely for the exportation of spices and other goods. It’s an artificial waterway, relatively straight with well-defined banks, allowing navigation by small boats and, throughout history, larger vessels. It is also connected to several wetland ecosystems, ensuring biodiversity and providing a habitat for local wildlife. Visitors can enjoy boating and exploring the ecosystem in the canal.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
5. Elephant Orphanage
Photo: McKay Savage / Wikimedia Commons
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary that involves the treatment of tamed orphaned or injured elephants for rehabilitation in Sri Lanka. It was established in 1975 to offer these great creatures a haven with an emphasis on their physical well-being and social integration. The orphanage also functions as a conservation centre by bringing awareness about the protection of elephants and relations, thus increasing a better understanding of these great animals among the public. The orphanage typically includes elephant feeding sessions, bathing sessions, elephant nurseries, educational exhibits, and workshops.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 6 PM
Suggested Read: Take A Dive Into The Turquoise Waters Of The Popular Beaches In Unawatuna
Where To Stay Nearby Negombo Beaches
Photo: Ji-Elle / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Negombo features a long array of accommodation facilities located near its beaches, suiting different budgets and tastes. Some recommended places to stay here are Jetwing Blue, Heritage Negombo, The Beach Boutique Hotel, Hotel Goldi Sands, Pledge3, and Rani Beach Hotel. To have a good, hassle-free experience, ensure you book way in advance, consider proximity to the local attractions, dining options, and public transport, and check on travel websites or apps for current reviews.
Where To Eat Around Negombo Beaches
Photo: Dina Said / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Many restaurants in Negombo’s beaches include The Lobster Pot, Seafood Palace, Siam Smile Thai Restaurant, and The Verandah Restaurant. Cuisines come in international and local styles; some more recommended places are Cafe Ceylon, Bamboo Restaurant, Suite, Oceans 11, and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Visitors can taste local Negombo flavours by indulging in local specialities. Booking your table well in advance is advised.
Suggested Read: Top Bentota Water Sports For Indulging In A Thrilling Experience.
Best Time To Visit Negombo Beaches
Photo: Ji-Elle / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Visiting Negombo beaches is best during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is sunny and dry with calm seas. This is the most suitable time to spend on beaches, swim in the lagoon, or take boat rides. The monsoon season, May to September, is accompanied by heavy rainfall and frequent showers; this time sees fewer visitors and allows for better accommodation prices. In the inter-monsoon period, October to November, prices are slightly lower. Plan your visit to enable you to experience the local culture.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Jerzy Strzelecki / Wikimedia Commons
Here are some factors to consider before you take a trip to Negombo Beaches.
Average Cost Of The Trip:
The cost of a trip to Negombo beaches varies based on travel style, accommodation, dining, and activities. Mid-range travellers can expect basic accommodations at LKR 3,000 to 6,000 per night, while luxury hotels can cost LKR 12,000 to 30,000+ per night.
Tips For Travellers:
- To plan your visit, book in advance and pack accordingly with light, breathable clothing, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen, comfortable sandals, and walking shoes.
- Respect local customs and culture by dressing modestly and participating in water sports.
- Explore nearby attractions like Negombo Lagoon, St. Mary’s Church, Angurukaramulla Temple, and local markets like the Negombo Fish Market.
- Use local transport like Tuk-tuks and taxis, and be environmentally responsible by disposing of trash and not disturbing or feeding wildlife.
Suggested Read: Water Sports In Sri Lanka For Adventure Enthusiasts And Thrill Seekers
Negombo Beaches are like a tropical haven that is waiting to be discovered. With golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and a pulsating ambience, it is the right combination for relaxation and fun. You have a wide choice of entertainment activities in Negombo, from adventure sports involving water elements to feasting on the freshest seafood. Plan your dream beach getaway with TripXL and discover magic.
Cover Photo: Dhananjaya Bulathwatte / Wikimedia
