Straight talk: Negombo’s waterways offer three worthwhile paddling options. The 1-hour guided canoe excursion hits the sweet spot for most visitors – you’ll spot wildlife and get a good taste of local life along the water.
For early risers, the 2-hour sunrise kayak delivers stunning morning views and cooler temperatures. My favorite is the sunset paddle through the lagoons – the evening light makes for fantastic photos.
All tours provide essential safety equipment and intimate group sizes.
What I love: These trips let you experience Negombo’s backwaters like a local, away from the tourist crowds. The guides know their stuff and share interesting details about the area’s ecosystem.
Note: These activities aren’t suitable for pregnant women.
Ready to check out our top-rated water tours in Negombo? Let’s explore your options below…
Key Points
- Negombo offers a variety of water-based activities, including stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and sunrise and sunset kayaking experiences.
- Canoeing and kayaking tours in Negombo provide opportunities to explore local scenery, mangrove marshlands, and diverse wildlife.
- The stand-up paddleboarding activity is wheelchair-accessible and suitable for most participants, except pregnant women.
- Canoeing experiences in Negombo cater to both beginners and experienced paddlers, with a maximum group size of 8 participants.
- Sunrise and sunset kayaking tours in Negombo offer a unique and captivating perspective of the natural beauty during the dawn and dusk hours.
Standup Paddling in Negombo
The stand up paddleboarding experience in Negombo offers visitors a unique way to explore the region’s waterways. This 1-hour activity is priced from $16.94 per person and is limited to small groups of up to 8 participants. The instructor, who speaks both English and Sinhalese, will provide a safety briefing and all necessary equipment.
Negombo, a town dubbed “Little Rome,” is located just 20 minutes from the Bandaranaike International Airport. Known for its medieval churches, bustling fish market, and scenic beaches, the area provides a picturesque backdrop for this full-body water workout.
Participants will enjoy a unique vantage point for viewing the underwater world and distant horizons. The stand up paddleboarding experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most participants.
However, it isn’t recommended for pregnant women. Guests should bring beachwear and a change of clothes, as well as be mindful of not littering or bringing explosive substances or valuables.
Read our full review: Standup Paddling in Negombo Review
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Canoeing in Negombo
Exploring the serene waterways of Negombo by canoe offers visitors a tranquil respite from the bustling town. This 1-hour canoeing experience allows you to discover Sri Lanka’s coastal scenery, with a group size limited to 8 participants.
Canoeing involves using a single-bladed paddle to steer the boat, which is suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, safety gear, and a briefing session to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Highlights include exploring the nature and wildlife of the area while admiring the medieval churches, fish market, and scenic beaches that characterize Negombo’s “Little Rome” vibe.
Participants should bring sunglasses and comfortable clothes, though the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women. Littering and explosive substances are prohibited.
With prices starting from $16.94 per person and free cancellation 24 hours in advance, this canoeing adventure is a must-try for visitors to Negombo.
Read our full review: Canoeing in Negombo Review
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Sunrise Kayaking in Negombo
Although the serene waters of Negombo Lagoon are captivating throughout the day, the dawn hours offer a particularly enchanting kayaking experience.
For $49.02 per person, visitors can embark on a 2-hour sunrise kayaking tour that provides a unique perspective of the area’s natural beauty as the sun rises.
Led by a professional guide, the tour allows participants to explore the calming waters, mangrove-covered marshlands, and diverse wildlife that’s more active during the early morning hours.
Offered in both English and Singhalese, the tour includes all necessary safety gear.
Participants must be aware that the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and they should bring a change of clothes.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option, this sunrise kayaking adventure is an excellent way to witness Negombo’s tranquil natural splendor.
Read our full review: Sunrise Kayaking in Negombo Review
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Sunset Kayaking in Negombo
As the sun dips below the horizon, the serene waters of Negombo Lagoon come alive with a new allure.
Sunset Kayaking in Negombo offers a captivating 2-hour experience, allowing visitors to explore the tranquil lagoons and witness the breathtaking display of colors reflected on the calm surfaces.
Priced from £32.45 per person, this adventure caters to both English and Sinhalese-speaking participants. Guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later is available.
The experience highlights include gliding through the mangrove-covered marshlands, observing the diverse wildlife, and immersing in the serene ambiance.
All necessary equipment, such as kayaks and safety gear, are provided, along with the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert. However, this activity isn’t recommended for pregnant women.
Participants are advised to bring a change of clothes and are reminded to refrain from littering during the tour.
Interested you can check availability and book their spot online.
Read our full review: Sunset Kayaking in Negombo Review
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Recap
Negombo offers a range of canoe and kayak experiences. Standup paddling allows you to explore the peaceful waterways. Canoeing provides a more traditional way to navigate the canals. Sunrise and sunset kayaking tours showcase the area’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the area’s waterways in Negombo.