Weligama, Fisherman’s Reef
Long paddle out from the mosque in Weligama, new marina for local fishing boats making it easier and more crowded. One side has a very very shallow reef, better take a local surf guide, even a fishermen boat ride if you don’t want to lose all your energy to paddle out.
Peeling 300m right break that holds between 3 and 5ft, works well in a big swell. 800m paddle out from a beach entry point, near Weligama harbor across very shallow reef. Possible to pay a fisherman to take you. We would recommend you take a local knowledgeable surfer who can guide you round the reef, it is very shallow in parts so take care of your paddle out route as the reef has notched up a few board repairs. Since it is marina with a lot of fishermen, the water is not so clean… Perfect at sunrise though.
Weligama Sand Beach
Weligama, is about a two kilometre stretch of shallow sandy beach. The bay is protected somewhat from the wind, if the rest of the coast is blown it can be better here. The waves are usually very small and can be full of close outs. 20-25 min tuktuk/bus ride from Mellow.
Easily be surfed when small, holds up to 5ft. A big swell on a beginners break is kook carnage with boards flying everywhere, very entertaining to watch. This place is very crowded so expect learner drop-ins and be careful not to get injured. Since the bay is full of fishermen and marina activity, the water can be very blurry and not so clean. Not recommended for swim but can chill at the beach.
Mirissa Beach
Mirissa is a beautiful crescent shaped, sandy beach surrounded by palm trees. 30-40 min tuktuk/bus ride from Mellow. You can surf a low power right-hander over reef break near the rocks and a left-hander near the harbor. Works really well with a good swell up to 6ft, however check the local tides as the reef can become shallow when the tide is out. Good for beginner and intermediate surfers to build confidence on a reef. However reefs can be dangerous for the beginners, better check where to enter with locals at the beach.