Driving along from Ahangama, you begin to notice the famous stilt-fishermen perched like curious-looking birds all the way towards Weligama, a beautiful section of Sri Lanka’s southern coastline which is also a favourite haunt of surfers. At one end of the sleepy town there is a megalith to the memory of Kustaraja- the Leper king- who was miraculously cured of this dreaded disease by consuming copious amounts of King Coconut water. Explore the picturesque bay by catamaran, and head to Taprobane Island, a nearby isolated villa set atop a small island surrounded by lush tropical gardens. The octaganal white villa has attracted everyone from Noel Coward to Paul Bowles and Robin Maugham, and is currently featured in Hip Hotels.

Our most popular hotel in Weligama is Cape Weligama, a majestic property perched on the headland which provides panoramic views across the bay and out to the endless Indian Ocean beyond. Mirissa Hills are another option, three villas spread across a cinnamon plantation which offer secluded accommodation slightly inland from the coast.