Can a complete beginner actually learn to surf in 2 weeks at Weligama

Yes, realistically. Two weeks of consistent lessons (5 to 6 sessions per week, 2 hours each) at Weligama Bay typically gets a complete beginner from zero to confidently catching whitewater waves on a foamie and standing on small unbroken waves by the end. Weligama is THE beginner spot: huge sandy bay, soft long waves, no reef hazards, multiple surf schools. For the first week, group lessons are fine and more fun (cheaper too, around 25 to 35 USD per 2-hour group session including board). For week two, switching to one or two PRIVATE sessions (around 50 to 70 USD) accelerates a lot because the instructor watches every pop-up. Take rest days; surfing is brutal on the shoulders. Stay at a surf camp with included board rental, you will paddle out on your own between lessons and that is where you really progress.