Despite being notably known, Negombo is somewhat underrated. Nestled along the west coast of Sri Lanka, just 45 minutes from Colombo and 20 minutes from the airport, Negombo actually has a little bit of everything to enjoy – especially if you’re a first-time traveller to Sri Lanka.
We want you to know exactly what to expect if you choose to do a day tour as you head to Colombo or any part of Sri Lanka, or spend a couple of days in this lovely beach town.
Tour The Large Fish Market And Buy Fresh Fish!
Get ready for a fishy experience! Negombo has a long and proud history of being a thriving fishing village, that later developed into the bustling city you see today.
With Fishing still being one of its significant charms, a tour of their famous Main Fish Market is a must-add to your list of things to do in Negombo.
Cross the Mankuliya Bridge over the lagoon to visit this place. The quantities are huge. The freshness at its best. Varieties – endless.
Once you get over the salty, fishy aroma that invades the air, you can explore the local fish market scene of Sri Lanka to your heart’s content and maybe purchase some fish too!
Cruise The Scenic Negombo Lagoon!
There are ample tour options available if you’re looking to explore the emerald waters of the Negombo Lagoon by boat. The lagoon has a lot of history attached to it from the time of the Dutch colonization.
There’re many beautiful areas to observe diverse birds in their happy habitat. You can explore the scenic waters and learn a lot.
You can even make a stop on a small island that’s in the middle of the lagoon. Get down from the boat, and have a cooling king coconut while enjoying the surrounding views.
Venture To The Deep Blue On A Fishing Cruise!
The fishing game is quite strong in Negombo. If you enjoy a good fishing trip, then the deep blues off Negombo beach is just the place.
Keep in mind that to get the total experience, you must travel with an experienced fishing guide. If you’re staying close to the airport, it will take approx. 15 minutes to get there.
Reach the deep waters as the sunrises. Close to the coast, catch fresh groupers, snapper emperors and bonefishes. Further out, you might get lucky with swordfish and even sharks.
Depending on who you arrange the tour with, you can also have your freshly captured fish prepared and enjoyed too.
Discover the Wildlife Beauty At The Muthurajawela Marsh
Let’s tour the marshy trail along the southern region of the Lagoon in Negombo. If you’re visiting from Colombo, it will take about a 30 – 40 minute drive to reach.
The marshland is another one of the most notable attractions for tourists thanks to its unique ecosystem. It’s the biggest saline coastal peat bog in Sri Lanka. Take a boat ride to explore its marshy pit through the Hamilton Canal.
Spot various migratory birds out of 102 species of birds. The region supports over 192 flora species and 209 fauna species.
Fun fact: Muthurajawela Marsh translates to “Swamp of Royal Treasure”. Does it really live up to its name? Visit to find out.
Explore The Dutch Canal (Hamilton Canal)
Of course, there are mixed reviews about exploring this channel. To look at the positives – the water passage is lined up with fishing boats and simple verdant sceneries. The 14.5 km stretch can be quite a quaint boat tour.
But you can learn a lot about the inland canal structure and the Dutch colonizer history attached to it. It is another lovely way to spot different species of birds and even aquatic wildlife.
Ideal to do on a sunny clear day as it adds to the beauty. Some like it, some don’t. You be the judge of it.
Visit The St. Sebastian Church
It is one of the most famous Roman Catholic Church’s in Sri Lanka. The church is situated 15 minutes from the city of Negombo in Wellaweediya, near Negombo beach. Built and completed in 1946, the structure has been sculpted in a gothic revival style, similar to that of Reims Cathedral in France.
The exterior can look a little imposing but alluring at the same time. Despite its size, it homes a lighthearted calmness that is very soothing.
If you enjoy exploring the architectural styles of different attraction sites, a visit to the St. Sebastian Church is worth adding to your list of things to do in Negombo.
Stroll Along The Negombo Beach
Have you ever been to Negombo, if you have not visited the lovely Negombo Beach? Well, to be fair Sri Lanka being an island – sea beach destinations are ample.
But the Negombo beach is one of the most popular attractions for tourists in Negombo, and it’s ideal for a leisurely walk. If you’re coming from Colombo, it takes about an hour to get there.
The beach stretch is lined with plenty of hotels and beach restaurants along the stretch. Enjoy the scenic sea beach views and the general crowds and the magical sunset too!
Explore St. Mary’s Church
With a majority of the population in Negombo being Catholic and Christian, it is no real surprise to find many lovely churches here. St Mary’s is one such stunning church you can drop by for a quick visit.
It’s a famous landmark, and it is, in fact, one of the largest cathedrals in Sri Lanka. Located within the city, quite close to the Negombo lagoon, St Mary’s is one of the most popular attractions in all of Negombo.
You can simply explore this beautiful cathedral – often known as Little Rome amongst the locals. Observe the stunning alabaster images of saints painted on the ceiling and maybe grab a tranquil moment to yourself.
Shopping In Negombo Town
If your stay in the city of Negombo is a short one, and you have little time to truly explore the gems of Negombo – then the main road along the Negombo beach has much to offer for a quick venture.
Well-lit and inviting, the streets are lined up with shops, boutique cafes, restaurants, and jewellery shops – with a vibrant hustle and bustle flowing into the street as you explore it.
It’s definitely lovely enough to hang around, have some delicious food, and enjoy the good vibes.
Enjoy Good Food And Good Times At The Hangar
Situated on Poruthota Road, this is a great place to stop by with your friends and other travel companions – or even by yourself – it doesn’t matter.
Have some fantastic burgers and some boozy refreshments, and enjoy the night. Of course, burgers are not the only thing they have.
The theme here is good food and good times, and they deliver just that with flavour-packed dishes to keep you happy during your visit.
Explore What’s Left Of The Negombo Dutch Fort Ruins
Located close to the Lagoon of Negombo and the beach as well – it’s a quick visit, seeing as the fort is small and quite deteriorated.
What is left is the remains of a tunnel and waned out landmark of a clock tower. If you’re in the vicinity, it’s worth seeing. The cool thing here is that it’s built with stone and coral. And if you walk past the tunnel and go a little ahead, you will find a quaint little church that looks lovely and inviting.
Ideal for any history buff, as there is plenty to learn, about the Dutch colonization and how it took form in Sri Lanka.
Enjoy Seafood and Good Beer At The Port Beach Restaurant & Pub
If you want to experience a hyped-up atmosphere with some great music and enjoy some flavour-packed seafood dishes, then you are heading to the Port Beach Restaurant & Pub.
Your taste buds are in for an unforgettable seafood treat! Located along the beach road, the restaurant is built like a small hut-much like a beach shack, perched along the coast, facing the lovely beach of Negombo.
There are sunbeds for you to lounge on while your drinks and dishes are getting prepared. Prompt service and lovely beach vibes. Worth a visit? Yes, we think so.
Get Your Souvenirs From Selyn!
Whether you are beginning your tour in Sri Lanka or spending the last night in Negombo before heading to the airport, some souvenirs would be great for the journey.
The uniqueness of these hand-loomed products is that the base of their creation is rooted in the traditional craft of looms.
Located along the main beach road, passing some well-known hotels, feel free to drop in to have a look as you take a tour around the city!
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Nichola is a writer/editor and a shy foodie who shares a very soft spot for all things travel. She considers herself to be an island girl at heart, and nothing excites her more than learning about new places people can explore and biting into a slice of sweet melon on a hot and sunny day.
She has specialized in travel writing for over 5 years, all the while being a lifelong (die-hard) anime fan!