Ahangama is well-known for its golden beaches and surf, but here at The Fortress Resort & Spa, one of the top Ahangama hotels, we know there’s so much more to this charming coastal town. Beyond the waves, Ahangama offers culture, adventure and local experiences that make a stay with us even more memorable. Here are the top seven things to do beyond the beach.
1. Tea Tasting
There’s no better way to begin your journey through Ahangama than with tea. At The Fortress Resort & Spa, we celebrate this tradition with our Tea Tasting During Sundown — A Journey with Mabroc Teas. Guided by expert sommeliers, this curated experience lets you savour handpicked teas from Sri Lanka’s finest estates as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. It’s a moment of mindfulness, flavour, and heritage that lingers long after the final sip.
For those who wish to venture further, we also recommend a visit to Handunugoda Tea Estate, home of the world-renowned Virgin White Tea. Wander through their lush plantations, discover the art of tea-making and enjoy a tasting session that brings the island’s proudest export to life. A tasting session that lets you savour one of the rarest teas in the world.
2. Tropical Markets
Markets around Ahangama are a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the area’s vibrant community spirit. Twice a month, Café Ceylon transforms its garden and restaurant into a lively pop-up space filled with handmade jewellery, swimwear, bags, and plenty of street food, all with live music and a laid-back coastal vibe. Similarly, the twilight markets at The Doctors House are not to be missed, attracting crowds with clothes, art, jewellery and a festive atmosphere that carries on with music well into the evening. Beyond these, markets scattered along the south coast invite you to discover fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and unique souvenirs for something special to take back home.
3. Temple Visits
Ahangama and its surroundings are home to several ancient temples that offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. Just a short drive from our resort, the Yatagala Rock Cave Temple, dating back over 2,000 years, is a peaceful sanctuary surrounded by boulders and lush paddy fields. Here, you’ll find sacred caves once used by monks for meditation, a towering Buddha statue and centuries-old murals that bring history to life.
Equally enriching is a visit to smaller village temples throughout the south, where daily rituals, drumming, and offerings create an intimate atmosphere of devotion. Exploring these sacred spaces not only provides insight into the island’s spiritual heritage but also allows for quiet moments of reflection amidst breathtaking surroundings.
Tip: Modest attire and removing shoes is mostly required when visiting local temples.
4. Skateparks
Ahangama isn’t all tranquil beaches, there’s plenty of fun to be had! Lamana Skatepark is a lively spot where local skaters gather to skate and hang out. It’s a unique place to enjoy a more adventurous side of the town, whether you want to skate yourself or just take in the energetic atmosphere.
Outdoor DJ sets and live bands often set the scene as a vibrant crowd of skaters, travellers and surfers come together under the stars.
5. Beach Clubs
After a day of exploring, spend the evening in lively atmospheres for music and cocktails. Trax offers a vibrant social scene with music and cocktails, while Kai Beach is perfect if you prefer a more relaxed, intimate setting. Both spots are ideal for enjoying the sunset over the ocean and dancing the night away.
6. Wildlife Safaris
Sri Lanka is brimming with wildlife, and staying at The Fortress Resort & Spa puts you close to some unforgettable experiences. Yala National Park is home to leopards, elephants, sloths and more, offering thrilling safaris across diverse landscapes. Nearby, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage lets you see elephants bathing and baby elephants being bottle-fed, a truly wholesome sight.
For a quieter adventure, explore Sinharaja Forest Reserve or other nearby sanctuaries, where endemic birds, tropical trees and winding forest trails reveal the island’s natural beauty. Closer to our resort, Koggala Lake offers scenic boat safaris past exotic birds, water monitors, and islands like Cinnamon Island and Madol Doova, with fish spas along the banks for a relaxing finish.
7. Cooking Class & Mixology
Sri Lankan cuisine is a vibrant celebration of flavours, aromas, and traditions, and at The Fortress Resort & Spa, we invite our guests to experience it firsthand with our Cooking Demonstration Experience. Led by our skilled chefs, this interactive session reveals the secrets behind authentic dishes, from bold spices to time-honoured techniques. Guests receive step-by-step instructions and, of course, get to savour the delicious meals they’ve helped create.
For something a little more spirited, our Mixology & Flaring Session offers a hands-on cocktail experience like no other. Learn to mix classic and contemporary cocktails with guidance from our expert mixologist, and even craft your own signature drink, then enjoy a dazzling bottle-flaring display set to live DJ music.
At The Fortress Resort & Spa, we pride ourselves on offering more than just luxurious accommodation. Staying with us means you’re perfectly positioned to explore the south of this island while enjoying our comfort and personalised service. From cultural adventures to culinary experiences and nature trips, there’s so much to discover just beyond the waves.
