Negombo situated by the shores of a lagoon by the same name once has been a trading port for Portugese and Dutch and is a ideal place for those who want quick access to and from the airport. Attractions in the city are the old Dutch fort gate built in 1672 now a part of the prison, the Dutch Canal which was then a supply route to the Dutch administration, old churches and fishing villagers. The 100km long canal running through the town is still being used and is an attraction for those who want to see the country from a different perspective.

Negombo Beach was Sri Lanka's first beach resort and is not only an ideal place to start or end your holiday in Sri Lanka. Conveniently located only 15 km from Sri Lanka's International Airport, Negombo offers wide beaches, a great selection of hotels and guesthouses - ranging from budget to 5* resorts, excellent restaurants, well stocked supermarkets and many watersport facilities.

Enjoy watching the old world fishing crafts like the outrigger canoes and the catamarans bringing a variety of marine fishes like seers, skipjacks, pomfrets and amber-jacks. In the lagoon lobsters and prawns are caught and served as fascinating delicacies in the restaurants.

On Negombo's long Beach you'll find many seafood restaurants, bars and shops. The town itself shows its interesting colonial past which was heavily influenced by the Catholic Church.

There are many ways to explore Negombo but one of the most recommendable ones is by traveling along the many canals which are connection the Negombo lagoon and the sea.