Unawatuna
Coral reef in shallow water with resident hawksbill turtles easy to find for snorkellers. A short drive from Galle Fort makes it a natural afternoon addition.
Weligama
A long, gentle right-hander that works for complete beginners, with a working fishing harbour and genuinely good seafood restaurants behind the bay.
Negombo
The Dutch canal network, the lagoon fish market at dawn and Portuguese Catholic church architecture give Negombo more depth than its transit reputation suggests.
Hiriketiya
A bowl-shaped bay with a consistent beach break, warm water and genuinely good cafes. It has the energy of a coastal town not yet fully packaged.
Tangalle
Wide, empty bays and resorts with more space and privacy than anywhere further west. Specifically recommended for travellers who have done the southern circuit before and want something less packaged.