As an island nation, Sri Lanka is in no short supply of beaches. Most are accessible, but the coast surrounding Colombo is often developed and is cluttered with businesses and residences. As you head north from the city, the beaches of Negombo are some of the first you will find that gives you the exotic island feeling.
Located on a lagoon, Negombo became a tourist hotspot with the opening of Sri Lanka’s only international airport in nearby Katunayake. Negombo was the closest resort beach accessible to tourists right off the plane and the recent boost in tourist numbers have really helped this town blossom. It now has a lively atmosphere and is developing a reputation as one of the main centers for water sports in Sri Lanka.
The rise of the popularity of water sports in the island itself has been largely due to the increasing number and quality of Sri Lanka beach resort. The beachfront hotels generally own the adjoined beaches and their guests can enjoy the warm blue waters of the Indian Ocean to their hearts’ content. Activities such as jet skiing, sailing and even some surfing and wind-surfing can be done on the seas here. Traditional proa sailboats can be chartered for an hour or even a day. The windy conditions that start with the end of the old fishing season give ideal conditions for wind-surfing. Surfers love the high waves created by these winds too.
There are also some beautiful coral reefs around Negombo and amidst it a 50 year old shipwreck as well- making it a great spot for a dive. Plenty of marine life can be seen in these waters where the best diving conditions exist from November to March and June to September. It is advisable to wait 24 hours till you board a flight after your last dive. The coast’s resident dolphins and feeding whales create a delightful scene that can be seen in an organized whale watching cruise.
Water sports are awesome ways to add a rush of adrenaline to you holiday. Make sure you check all equipment you are renting from a trustworthy rental shop or your Negombo beach hotel. The best instructors and quality gear can be obtained at a reputable hotel like Jetwing Blue.