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?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Talpe.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.