This blog post is all about a Negombo travel guide.
If you’re flying into Sri Lanka and looking for the perfect place to unwind, Negombo should be at the top of your list.
Just 10km from Bandaranaike International Airport, this small coastal town is the ideal starting (or ending) point for your Sri Lanka itinerary.
We originally planned to stay just one night, but ended up staying eight. That should give you an idea of how easy it is to fall into the laid-back rhythm here.
If you’re short on time, 48 hours in Negombo is just the right amount to relax, explore, and recharge—without the chaos of Colombo.
Whether you’re easing into your Sri Lankan adventure or winding down at the end of your trip, this Negombo travel guide will show you how to spend the perfect 48 hours in Negombo.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
This blog post is all about a Negombo travel guide.
Negombo Travel Guide: Where is Negombo?
Negombo is a beachside town on the west coast of Sri Lanka, just a 15-minute drive from Colombo International Airport.
It’s much closer to the airport than Colombo, which is why we recommend staying here—especially if you’re only in Sri Lanka for a short time.
It’s not a town packed with attractions, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s calm, slow, and easy to explore, and a brilliant place to recover from jet lag or get in some work if you’re travelling long-term like us.
RELATED Negombo Travel Guide blog post to read: 2 Days in Colombo Sri Lanka: Ultimate 48 Hours Itinerary
You can see how we spent our full 8 days in Negombo in my Negombo travel vlog on YouTube below. You can also find all of my Sri Lanka YouTube vlogs here.
Negombo Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Negombo
We stayed at Sujeewani Villas, and loved it so much we came back to stay again at the end of our trip.
Located just a 10-minute walk from Negombo Beach, our private villa had everything we needed—bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, lounge, and fast WiFi (perfect for remote work). The shared pool was right outside our door, and the quiet location made it ideal for switching off.
Use Kattuwa train station as your reference point for finding accommodation near Negombo Beach.
It’s the best area to stay in, and you can take a quick tuk-tuk to anywhere else you want to explore.
RELATED Negombo Travel Guide blog post to read: Where to Stay in Negombo: Amazing Sujeewani Villas Hotel Review
Negombo Travel Guide Day 1
Morning: Brunch at Boho Café & Temple Visit
Start your day at Boho Café, our absolute favourite brunch spot in Negombo. Their menu is full of fresh, healthy options and their mocha is the best in town—I lost count of how many we had during our time here.
After brunch, head to Sri Singama Kali Amman Kovil, a vibrant Hindu temple in the city. It’s colourful, peaceful and a lovely way to ease into the day. Make sure to dress modestly out of respect.
Midday: Relax at Negombo Beach
After your temple visit, walk or tuk-tuk back to Negombo Beach and spend the rest of your day relaxing.
It’s not the most pristine beach in the world, but it has a lovely breeze, soft sand, and a peaceful energy. Grab a book, listen to a podcast or just nap under a palm tree—this is what Negombo is all about.
Late Afternoon: Visit the Dutch Canal
If you fancy a bit of movement, take a short stroll along the Dutch Canal, a remnant of the colonial era.
You can also book a boat tour along the canal if you’d rather take in the views from the water.
Sunset: Back to the Beach
Make sure you’re back at Negombo Beach for sunset—it’s one of the best places to watch the sky turn gold in Sri Lanka.
There are lots of local spots along the beach selling fresh coconuts and cold beers.
Dinner: Jude’s Restaurant (Upstairs)
End your first day with dinner at Jude’s Restaurant. We ate here more than any other place in Negombo, and for good reason.
The food is consistently excellent, the upstairs setting is breezy and laid-back, and it’s affordable too. Try the curry and rice or go for fresh grilled fish.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
Negombo Travel Guide Day 2
Morning: Visit the Fish Market
Start early with a visit to the Negombo Fish Market. It’s bustling, chaotic, and yes—it smells exactly how you think it will.
But it’s also an incredible look into local life. You’ll see fishermen sorting their catch, gutting fish and preparing everything to sell to local markets.
Lunch: Jhony Food
After your market visit, head to Jhony Food—a no-frills spot serving excellent, budget-friendly Sri Lankan meals.
It’s a favourite among locals and travellers who want to eat like the locals do. Order a kottu or rice and curry and thank me later.
Midday: Day Trip to Monkey Island
For something a little different, take a boat trip to Monkey Island, located near the Negombo Lagoon. You can organise this through your guesthouse or a local tour operator.
The island is home to—you guessed it—plenty of monkeys, and the surrounding lagoon is peaceful and scenic.
Afternoon: Relax by the Pool or the Beach
Once you’re back from the island, take the rest of the afternoon to do what Negombo is best for—nothing.
Head back to your accommodation or spend another lazy few hours on the beach. This is your time to unwind.
Sunset: One Last Beach Walk
Just like the day before, make sure you’re on the beach for another epic sunset. It never gets old.
Dinner: Choose Your Final Feast
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few other restaurants worth checking out on your second night:
- Ocean 14 – Beachfront dining and great seafood
- Lord’s Restaurant – Western-style meals, pricier but good atmosphere
- Cafe Zen – Good food, but mostly outdoor seating (bring bug spray!)
Negombo Travel Guide: More Things to See in Negombo
If you’ve got extra time or want to mix up your 48 hours a bit, here are a few more things to add to your list from this Negombo travel guide:
- Angurukaramulla Temple – Known for its giant Buddha statue and intricate murals
- St. Mary’s Church – One of the oldest Christian churches in Sri Lanka
- Hamilton Canal – Another scenic walking route with colonial history
- Negombo Dutch Fort – A quick but worthwhile stop
- Fishermen’s Village – Great for photography and watching boats head out to sea
- Muthurajawela Marsh Tour – Explore Sri Lanka’s largest saline wetland by boat
Negombo Travel Guide: Why We Loved Negombo
Negombo might not make it to every traveller’s Sri Lanka itinerary, but it should. It’s quiet, convenient and completely underrated.
Whether you’re starting your journey or winding it down, this beachside town gives you the space to rest, reflect, and catch your breath.
We planned one night and stayed eight. That says it all.
If you’re planning your trip to Sri Lanka, check out my full Sri Lanka travel guide for tips, itineraries and more local favourites (including more like this Negombo Travel Guide).
And don’t forget your sunscreen!
RELATED Negombo Travel Guide blog posts to read:
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- Ultimate 1 Month Sri Lanka Itinerary and Travel Route
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If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
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