Photo of Ahangama

About Ahangama

A small seaside town on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Ahangama has really taken off in recent years. Now one of the island’s trendiest hotspots, with a reputation for sensational surf and yoga, it’s also home to a growing selection of superb accommodation options. Whether you’re dreaming of a laid-back guesthouse, a hip jungle hideaway or a slick seaside spot, our pick of the best places to stay in Ahangama have got you covered.

Ahangama town has a lively bustle. Market stalls brim with fresh produce, scooters zip around colourful three-wheelers, and surfers amble across the road, boards in hand. The seafront is lined with cafés and shops, perfect for late morning brunches, or picking up presents for friends and family. Surfers will be thrilled to hear that the options are almost endless, with beginner-friendly breaks and more intermediate waves in town, and within just a short drive along the coast in either direction. The enormous scoop of Weligama bay, with its small, regular waves, is ideal for getting to grips with surfing, whilst Kabalana beach is a favourite amongst sunseekers. Speak to Ahangama-based surfers about their favourite spots on the reef — we’re big fans of Marshmallows and Sticks.

Head inland for yoga classes at shalas tucked on the edge of the jungle or the rice paddies, hop aboard bicycles to zip along narrow lanes lined with brightly painted village houses, or put your feet up at one of Ahangama’s many cool cafés. Come evening, gather for sunset cocktails overlooking the sea, and tuck into fabulous fresh seafood and delicious seasonal dishes at one of the best places to stay in Ahangama. You’ll find cracking bars for live music, DJ nights and dancing, too.

The Best Places to Stay in Ahangama

For a Hip Hideaway

  • Abode Ahangama is a striking 1950s villa with four whitewashed bedrooms featuring wrought iron four posters, indoor-outdoor bathrooms and pretty details. The swimming pool sits amidst grassy gardens and swaying palms, and mornings begin with big breakfasts of Sri Lankan specialities. Boutique bliss.
  • The Kip, another beautifully restored villa, has three terracotta-tiled guest rooms and a garden studio. Set around a lovely little courtyard, this gem of a hideaway has an easygoing, minimalist feel, with a focus on handmade, artisanal decor. The buzzy café is a neighbourhood favourite. Intimate and romantic.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Ahangama is around 2.5 hours’ drive on the modern expressway from Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport. Most hotels will be able to arrange an airport pickup with a reliable driver.
  • If you are travelling from Colombo, regular trains run directly from Fort Station to Ahangama. The train is certainly slower than travelling by car, but tickets are cheap and the coastal route offers enchanting sea views. The journey takes around 3 hours.
  • Time your trip to coincide with the south coast’s peak season (from November to March) for sunshine and the best of the year’s surf. Temperatures reach their peak in April, when it's almost constantly over 30°C and muggy, so we'd suggest waiting until after the May monsoon if you're planning an off-season holiday. Whilst the sea is generally too rough to swim or surf during the off-season, hotels are likely to be quieter and offer off-peak rates.

STILL NOT SURE?

Best Hotels in Ahangama

  • Abode Ahangama Ahangama (Southern Province) 4 rooms from €112

    Groups  -  Book all four bedrooms for a great group holiday, with a big swimming pool and gardens for relaxing together
    Romantic Break  -  Big double bedrooms are perfect for romantic breaks, as are the restorative massages
    Surfing  -  Hire a board and surf at the nearby breaks of Ahangama, Midigama and Kabalana, all just minutes away
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    A gorgeous 1950s villa framed by swaying palm trees & grassy gardens with a swimming pool in buzzy Ahangama. Four whitewashed bedrooms have wrought-iron four-posters, indoor-outdoor bathrooms & thoughtful touches. Hearty breakfasts are served each morning. A boutique gem. See More

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  • The Kip Ahangama (Southern Province) 4 rooms from €114

    Surfing  -  Hone your surf skills on the beginner breaks of Weligama Bay, or ride the waves at Kabalana, Sticks or Marshmallow surf points
    Art Classes  -  Get creative with painting, drawing or pottery-making at fabulous artists' workshops held at The Kip throughout the year
    Hideaway  -  A little slice of calm surrounded by leafy gardens & the scent of sandalwood, all within easy reach of the beach
    Romantic Break  -  Intimate & romantic, guest rooms invite couples to unwind in blissful tranquility with long garden breakfasts
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A gorgeous hideaway in lively Ahangama, with three guest rooms set in a restored villa, and one garden studio. Thoughtfully curated spaces feature artisanal pottery, rattan lampshades & potted palms, all reflecting the mellow ethos of this charming little hotel, to which guests return again & again. See More

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  • Harding Boutique Hotel Ahangama Ahangama 6 rooms from €194

    Local markets  -  Explore the markets of Ahangama, where you can immerse yourself in the rich culture and culinary delights of Sri Lanka
    Beach Life  -  Sun-kissed luxury with stylish cabanas, surf-perfect waves, and beachfront dining, all in a stunning coastal setting
    Romantic Break  -  Indulge in intimate ocean views, private candlelit dinners on the sand, and sunset cocktails on your private balcony
    Sights nearby  -  Discover the historic charm of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, just a short drive away
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A chic boutique hotel on the coast in up and coming Ahangama. The interiors feature minimalist design that blends local craftsmanship with modern elegance. There are coconut groves, balconies overlooking the Indian Ocean, luxurious rooms, fabulous menus, and a gorgeous pool. A slice of paradise. See More

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  • Trebartha East The Round House Ahangama 4 rooms from €229

    Sights nearby  -  Explore the historic city of Galle, visiting landmarks like the Dutch Fort and the Clock Tower, rich in culture and history
    Back to Nature  -  Unwind amidst lush tropical gardens and cinnamon plantations, and explore scenic paths lined with fruit trees and peacocks
    Surfing  -  Hop on a tuk-tuk to Ahangama for thrilling surf lessons, ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers
    Total relaxation  -  Enjoy poolside lounging with expansive views, spa treatments, and bespoke yoga sessions
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    An utterly unique architectural gem in Sri Lanka's lush landscapes. The interiors are a tasteful blend of colonial elegance and modern luxury, with a heavy emphasis on natural materials. There's gourmet dining, a serene pool, and lush gardens. Perfect for a tranquil retreat or a romantic escape. See More

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  • Tekanda Lodge Ahangama 6 rooms from €231

    Romantic Break  -  Experience colonial charm with private verandas, freestanding bathtubs, and intimate candlelit dinners under the stars
    Cooking classes  -  Participate in Sri Lankan dhal cookery classes, learning to create traditional dishes with the lodge's chef
    Eco break  -  Sustainable luxury with solar power, locally-sourced organic cuisine, and eco-friendly architecture
    Back to Nature  -  Nestled amidst the lush Sri Lankan jungle with panoramic views of Koggala Lake and the Indian Ocean
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A stunning lodge on a hilltop on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, with wonderful views of the jungle and the Indian Ocean. The decor blends natural stone, wood, and thatched roofs, creating an elegant yet rustic feel. With an infinity pool, yoga deck, and family-style dining, it makes for a relaxed stay. See More

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