How to spend 3 days in Negombo – Sri Lanka's stunning coastline!

So you’ve decided to spend your mini vacay in Negombo – Great choice! This beautiful coastal town will give you plenty of sights, sounds and smells to make your vacation memorable. Let’s dive right in!

Day 1 

Morning: Negombo Beach

Spend the first part of the day at Negombo Beach. Negombo’s beaches are highly popular with locals and foreigners alike, and a visit early morning will give you spectacular views along with a healthy dose of vitamin D. You can also tread over to Negombo Beach Park thereafter, which is just along the way, if you are interested in seeing the fishermen bringing in their haul for the day, you can visit the Negombo Fish Market Complex situated just 4.5KM away from the Beach.

Afternoon: Visit the Negombo Dutch Fort / have lunch.
Once you have had your fill of the sun, sea, and sand, you can head over to the Negombo Dutch Fort. The remainder of this fort, which was first constructed by the Portuguese in 1672, makes a lovely backdrop for all your photos!

Evening: Visit St. Mary’s Church Negombo

St. Mary's Church Negombo | Image via Wikimedia Commons

St. Mary’s church is a highly significant church in Negombo and an essential place to visit. A mere 800m away from the Negombo Dutch Fort, this stunning architectural design is known to be one of the largest cathedrals in Sri Lanka. Renowned local artist Godamanna had a hand in painting the life of Christ on the ceiling of this distinguished cathedral.

There are many wonderful beach hotels in Negombo fitted with unparalleled views and luxurious amenities. One such hotel is the fabulous Heritance Negombo, a hotel that truly captures Negombo’s essence with its cuisine amongst others; plenty of seafood will be on offer, along with Sri Lankan cuisine to tickle your tastebuds!

Day 2

Morning: Visit Angurukaramulla Temple

Although Negombo is predominantly a Catholic town, the Angurukaramulla Temple pays homage to the Buddhist culture. Adorned by many sculptures, paintings, and a dragon, who is said to protect the shrine and its worshippers from evil.

Afternoon: Visit the Negombo Dutch Canal

Also known as the “Hamilton Canal”, this marvel is a 14.5 km canal which connects Colombo to Puttalam and was developed in 1802. This canal is etched in History, as this was used for many purposes over the centuries, including to drain salt water out of Muthurajawela wetlands and to transport produce.

Night: 

PARTY!

Sit back and enjoy a live band, DJ music and a chilled beer at one of the many pubs and bars Negombo has to offer. Restaurants/Pubs like Rodeo, Lords and Sherry Land are all within walking distance from each other and are very well-known in the area. You can head back to your hotel after, as most hotels have a fun-filled night with music, food and exciting activities!

Day 3

Morning: Relax and Unwind

Check out some of your hotel’s amenities such as the pool and the beach allocated to the hotel. Soak in some rays and relax on your last day in Negombo!

Afternoon: Visit the Muthurajawela Wetlands

Muthurajawela wetlands are the biggest saltwater coastal peat bog in Sri Lanka and are known to have originated around the year 5000 BC. Covering an expansive 1,777ha, these wetlands house many endemic and endangered fauna and flora. It is advised to go on a boat ride with designated officials who can point out many attractions.

Late afternoon: Explore local markets

In the many charming stores lining Negombo's streets are vibrant, colourful souvenirs and items offered at competitive prices. From Jewellery, Handbags, Clothing, and traditional local masks – you will be spoilt for choice when you visit these stores.