Top Things to Do in Wadduwa, Sri Lanka: A Hidden Coastal Gem Near Colombo

If you’re planning a Sri Lanka holiday and seeking elegant yet relaxed beach accommodation close to Colombo and the airport; then the coastal town of Wadduwa is a brilliant choice. Just over an hour’s drive from Colombo and the Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), Wadduwa offers golden sands, coconut palms, local culture and a wonderfully convenient base for your stay. Our list of 'Things to do in Wadduwa' offers more than just sunbathing by the ocean.

A Brief History of Wadduwa

Wadduwa, located on Sri Lanka’s western coast, has a fascinating back story rooted in traditional livelihoods and coastal cultivation. According to local folklore, the town’s name derives from an old Sinhalese phrase “veda doova” meaning “land of the native doctors” or “indigenous healers” which gradually became “Wadduwa”. Historically, the region has been renowned for its coconut-palm cultivation, toddy and vinegar production, and handicrafts made from coconut fibre, (such as brooms and mats) a strong part of the local economy. Under the Dutch and British colonial rule, the coconut plantations flourished and with time, the town shifted toward tourism and beachside hospitality. Today, the calm beach you walk along has witnessed centuries of coastal life, craft, and change.

Things to Do In Wadduwa

1.       Enjoy Wadduwa Beach – One of the Best Beaches Near Colombo.

The main draw of the town: the soft golden sand of Wadduwa Beach, lined with coconut palms and facing gentle waves of the Indian Ocean. It’s ideal for couples, families or solo travellers looking for beach front accommodation close to Colombo with a far more relaxed vibe than some of the busier southern beaches.

At The Villa by Contemporary Ceylon, you will benefit from direct beach access, sunset strolls and the kind of peaceful ocean view that invites you to slow down while also allowing you to get one last sea swim in before your quick one hour drive to the airport or Colombo.

2.      Visit the Spiritual Kalutara Bodhiya

Just a 15 minutes’ drive from Wadduwa lies the Kalutara Bodhiya, a Buddhist temple with a large white stupa on the Kalu River, making it one of the few temples in the world situated beside both a river and sea. The large stupa is hollow and contains murals and statues depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life, which visitors can view. There is also a sacred Bodhi tree grown from Anuradhapura’s Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. The temple is a popular day trip from Wadduwa, and it draws pilgrims and curious travellers alike, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s spiritual traditions. This helps to add a cultural dimension to your beach break.

Tips: Dress: Be sure to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees to enter the temple and you will be asked to leave your shoes outside when entering.

Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures

Photography: Allowed outside

3.      Explore Colonial Heritage at Richmond Castle

This top Wadduwa attraction is a mere 20-minute drive along the coast from the town. The Richmond Castle in Kalutara is an early-1900s mansion, formally home to a Mudaliyar (a title given during colonial times to denote a headman), that blends local and colonial architectural features. From its stunning architecture to its serene surroundings, this Castle sits on a 42-acre property. For travellers with an interest in history, architecture or photography, this stop adds richness to your stay beyond the beach.

Tips

Tickets: There are entrance tickets so be sure to carry some cash with you. All proceeds collected at Richmond Castle including entrance tickets goes towards the education of schoolboys.

Guide: There are guides available onsite to explain the history of the castle which could take between 40minutes to an hour based on your pace.

Times: Open from 8am to 4pm daily (times could change on public holidays)

4.      Experience the Local Fish Markets and Sea-side Living

One of the most authentic experiences in Wadduwa, wake up early and visit the local sea fish market, where the catch of the day comes in by boat. Markets like these reveal the rhythms of coastal life. If you don’t want to make your way to the markets, you can still experience the coastal fishing life from the beach as multiple boats go out for their daily catch during the west coast season. So, step onto the beach and appreciate the hard work done by our local fisherfolk and step in to help pull the nets if you are able to as well!

Back at The Villa by Contemporary Ceylon, all seafood is sourced locally. Sometimes you can watch fishermen drawn in their nets right outside the property. This is a truly authentic Sri Lankan fishing experience right outside the property! Chefs will often rush out during a draw to see what special fish they can pick up before the rest is hauled to the nearby market. This connection to the local fishing community is one of the unique benefits of Sri Lankan beachside living. To maximise your experience, after witnessing a live fishing haul, you can request a private beachside seafood dinner prepared with these local ingredients, bringing the coastal flavours straight to your table when you stay with us.

5.      Day Trip to Colombo

For travellers staying in Wadduwa, a day trip to Colombo offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and modern city life. Just an hours drive or 50 minutes by train, make your way to the hustle and bustle of Colombo! With many sites to see, we have picked out some of the most notable places you may want to consider.

Pettah market – The wholesale market of Colombo, find your way through the bustling streets, selling anything and everything! Within the streets of Pettah lies the Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque), unique for its red and white candy-striped façade, which blends Indo-Islamic and Gothic architecture. If visiting, modest clothes are advised.

Opening times may vary, but avoid visiting during prayer time,s especially on Fridays.

Wolvendaal Church - Tucked away in the historic Pettah district, Wolvendaal Church is one of Colombo’s oldest and most atmospheric colonial landmarks. Built in 1749 by the Dutch, this church is a masterpiece of Dutch Baroque architecture with thick coral and granite walls. Inside, you’ll find hand-carved wooden pews, an old pipe organ and tombstones dating back to the 17th century. It’s still an active place of worship today, offering visitors a quiet glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial and religious past.

Independence Square - This grand structure commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948. The hall and surrounding plaza offer a glimpse of history, and it’s a favourite location for evening walks and cultural photography.

Colombo National Museum - Sri Lanka’s largest museum, built in 1877, showcases centuries of history from ancient royal regalia to colonial artefacts. The surrounding gardens and architecture make it a calm retreat in the heart of the city.

Sri Ponnambalawaneswarar Devasthanam (Ponnambalam Kovil) - A hidden architectural marvel in Pettah, the Sri Ponnambalam Kovil is one of Colombo’s most breathtaking Hindu temples. Built entirely from solid granite, the temple’s dark stone pillars and intricate carvings create a serene, almost cave-like atmosphere, which is a beautiful contrast to the colourful chaos of the surrounding city.

Galle Face Hotel - Overlooking the Indian Ocean along the famous Galle Face Green, the Galle Face Hotel is one of Asia’s oldest and most storied hotels, dating back to 1864. Steeped in colonial elegance, this landmark has hosted royalty, writers, and celebrities for over a century from Mark Twain to Prince Philip.

The Villa by Contemporary Ceylon can help you organise a walking tour of Colombo.

6.      Day Trips: Bentota, Galle and the South-Coast Highlights

While staying in Wadduwa, you’re perfectly situated for fascinating day trips to the south coast.

• Bentota (approx. 45 minutes south) offers river safaris, water sports and garden estates.

• Galle Fort (around 1.5 hours) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in colonial history, boutique cafés and ocean views.

After a busy day, you’ll be glad to return to your beach villa for sunset, poolside relaxation and a calm evening.

Why Stay at The Villa by Contemporary Ceylon?

Choosing the right place to stay makes all the difference, and The Villa by Contemporary Ceylon delivers on location, attention to detail and service. As a boutique beach-side villa in Wadduwa, offering privacy, style and direct beach access, The Villa is the perfect location to start or end your holiday in Sri Lanka due to its proximity to Colombo, the airport, and the south coast. Our property is ideal for couples, families or solo travellers who value comfort, authenticity and seaside calm.

Let our team help you organise different excursions while you stay with us and if not, do enjoy the unique spaces, local and international cuisine, games and entertainment as well as the natural beauty The Villa has to offer!

See you soon in Sri Lanka!

Plan your stay and book direct for the best rates.