Weligama Bay is a relaxed, beginner friendly snorkelling and diving destination on Sri Lanka’s south coast. Its gentle waves and shallow reef make it ideal for first timers, with sightings of reef fish, soft corals and the occasional turtle. With surf schools, cafes and charming villas nearby, it’s perfect for slow travel and casual underwater adventures.

• Ideal snorkelling for first time visitors
• Calm bay with easy reef access
• Reef fish, corals and turtles spotted
• Great combo with beginner surf lessons
• Gear rentals along the beachside strip
• Best snorkelling December through April

Weligama Bay, located between Mirissa and Galle, is best known for surfing, but it’s also becoming a popular spot for laid back snorkelling and beginner dives. Its shallow entry points, light currents and soft sandy bottom make it one of the safest places to dip beneath the surface, especially for families and nervous first timers.

You will find patches of coral, schools of reef fish and even green turtles gliding through the bay. While the marine life here is not as concentrated as in Hikkaduwa or Pigeon Island, the ease of access and scenic charm make Weligama a gentle, enjoyable marine experience. For those looking to test the waters, literally, before moving on to deeper sites, this is the ideal spot.

The bay is also home to plenty of surf schools, boutique hotels and beachside eateries, allowing you to pair snorkelling with a relaxed coastal holiday vibe. Snorkelling gear is easily available from local operators and beginner scuba courses are offered by nearby dive centres.

Sri Lanka Tailor-Made recommends Weligama Bay for young travellers, surf and snorkel duos and slow paced itineraries. It’s where chilled out beach life meets casual underwater exploration, no pressure, just pure ocean joy.