Top 5 beach activities to do in Negombo - Five Must-Do Activities in Negombo Beach

Tipped to be one of the must-have experiences for first time visitors to Negombo beach there's no finer way to grasp the beauty and history of this popular seaside hamlet than on a river cruise on its lagoon. Offering visitors a unique vantage point from which to view the city and its chief highlights a river cruise on the Negombo lagoon is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed on a holiday in the well-known resort hub. Visitors based in ideally situated hotels in Negombo such as the Club Hotel Dolphin can book a river cruise on the lagoon via the hotel for added convenience.

Often regarded as one of the most rewarding activities in Negombo diving excursions are the best way to uncover what lies beneath the ocean surface in this popular beach Mecca. With its sea beds littered with vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine life it is little surprise that Negombo is known as one of the diving capitals of Sri Lanka. Frequented by avid divers since time immemorial official diving season is from November to March in Negombo. Littered with more than a dozen dive sites some of the must-experience highlights on a diving expedition in Negombo include dives in Pearl Reef and Barracuda Reef where Yellow Jacks and Oriental Sweet Lips are frequently spotted. The Shark Pit and Mutian Gala are equally worthy of exploration while Derena Gala is known to be inhabited by blue stripe snappers, goldline spinetreks and lion fish. Wreck divers will enjoy scouring the remains of an Asian carrier that drowned in the 1980's while beginners can hone their diving skills at Kammala Coral Reef.

Famed as one of the island nation's premier surfing heartlands the beaches of Negombo have been the stomping grounds of surfing enthusiasts from around the world for decades. Although surfing season in Negombo falls during the months from May to October visitors can engage in surfing activities on the beach for most of the year thanks to the perfect wind and water conditions of the locale. Negombo's sunny weather conditions also means surfers need not wear wetsuits, boots or gloves when engaging in surfing activities. Offering experienced surfers large waves and fantastic point breaks Negombo is also ideal for novice surfers as practice sessions can be carried out on the Negombo lagoon. Local surfers are privy to the well-known surf spots in the area and visitors would be wise to consult local guides on wind and water conditions of these hotspots before venturing out to the water.

Regarded as one of the most memorable excursions one could encounter on a visit to Negombo beach catamaran sailing excursions are fast becoming a staple activity among seasoned visitors to the beach Mecca. Setting sail during the hours of dusk holidaymakers can get lost among the waves and witness a spectacular sunset on board a catamaran while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere surrounded by nothing but water.

Official water skiing season in Negombo falls between the months of December and March in Negombo although visitors can enjoy water skiing activities during the period between July and September as well as the months between November and April. Water skiing equipment is widely available on the beachfront while novices can also learn the sport at The Pearl Center.