Negombo: The Beach Town by the Airport
Negombo sits just north of the international airport, which makes it the practical first night for many arrivals. Beyond convenience, it has a genuine fishing-town character and a strong Catholic heritage.
The fish market
The morning fish market and the beach where the oruwa outrigger boats land their catch are a lively, photogenic scene. Go early.
The Dutch canal
A network of colonial-era canals runs through town and out into the lagoon, best seen by boat or on a quiet bicycle ride.
The beach and lagoon
The main beach strip has hotels and seafood restaurants, while the lagoon behind is known for crab, prawns and birdlife.
Why stay
Being ten to fifteen minutes from the airport, it beats fighting Colombo traffic on arrival or before an early flight.
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