Surf in Marriott, Sand Bar | Weligama
Weligama • Southern Province
Sand Bar (Beach Break)
Beginner–Intermediate
Sand Bar (Beach Break)
Beginner–Intermediate
Overview: Marriott Sand Bar (Weligama Bay)
In the center of Weligama Bay, directly in front of the Weligama Bay Marriott, a shifting sandbank creates longer, more powerful peaks than the inner learner zones. It’s still sandy and forgiving on small days, but can feel punchy and fast when the bay has more swell.
Weligama Marriott/Sand Bar
Surfing & Waves
- Type: Sand-bottom peaks in the middle of the bay; longer lefts & rights than the shorey inside.
- Best for: Beginners on small days (with a coach) and intermediates when the bank is lining up.
- Size/shape: Holds around waist–head high; can run for long distances here when the bank is good (rides up to a few hundred meters reported).
- Gotchas: On bigger swells this bank can turn fast/closeout; spread out along the bay if it’s shutting down.
- Boards: Longboards/foamy funboards for small days; fish/daily-driver shortboards when it pulses.
Etiquette & Safety
- High concentration of surf schools—communicate clearly and give learners space.
- Watch for rip channels along the bar; they’re useful to paddle out but mind weak swimmers.
- Leash & sun protection recommended; it’s a sandy bottom with occasional shore-dump at low tide.
Getting There & Access
- Head to Weligama Bay Marriott; the bank sits out front in the middle of the bay. Easy tuk-tuk/scooter access.
- Ample beach entries; walk up/down the bay to find the best bank and least-crowded take-off zone.
Best Time to Surf
Weligama is Sri Lanka’s classic beginner bay, working most reliably from November–April with morning offshores. Shoulder months can still deliver; mid-year often brings onshores and weaker swell on the southwest coast.
Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
Good
Fair
Poor
Prime Nov–Apr; shoulder months can work; mid-year often wind-affected on the SW coast.
Nearby Surf & Things To Do
- Main Weligama Beach – super mellow learner peaks along the bay.
- Jungle Beach peak – another beginner-friendly corner on certain tides.
- Midigama/Madiha – reef points for progressing/intermediate surfers (10–20 min).
FAQ
Is the Marriott Sand Bar good for first-timers?
Yes on small days with a coach. If it’s breaking fast/closing out, walk the bay to find a softer bank.
How crowded does it get?
Weligama hosts many surf schools—expect peak-time crowds near the hotel; dawn/tide changes help.
Lefts or rights?
Both—this central bank often serves A-frame peaks; quality depends on sand setup and swell angle.