Surfing

Sri Lanka has surf all year, because its two coasts have opposite seasons. The south and west coast, from Hikkaduwa to Hiriketiya, works from about November to April. Arugam Bay and the east coast work from about May to October. Warm water, gentle beginner beaches and a relaxed surf-town scene make it one of the easiest places in Asia to learn.

Where are the best surf spots in Sri Lanka?

South and west coast (November to April)

• Weligama: a wide, sandy bay with soft, rolling waves. The best beginner spot on the island, with dozens of surf schools.
• Hiriketiya: a horseshoe bay with a beach break for beginners and a reef break for intermediates.
• Midigama and Ahangama: a string of reef and point breaks for intermediate and advanced surfers.
• Mirissa: a reef break off the western end of Mirissa Beach, better for confident surfers.
• Hikkaduwa: busy reef breaks with a lively town, good for intermediates.
• Unawatuna: occasional small waves; better as a base near Galle for surf trips along the coast.

East coast (May to October)

• Arugam Bay Main Point: a long right-hand point break and Sri Lanka's most famous wave. Best for intermediate to advanced surfers.
• Whisky Point, Peanut Farm and Elephant Rock: easier breaks around Arugam Bay, good for improving beginners and intermediates.
• Pottuvil Point: a long, mellow right-hander in the right conditions.

When is the best time to surf in Sri Lanka?

In the off-season, each coast gets onshore wind, rain and messy waves, so plan your base around the month you travel.

Can beginners learn to surf in Sri Lanka?

Yes, it is one of the best places to start. Weligama in the south and the easier breaks near Arugam Bay have soft, sandy-bottom waves. A lesson usually lasts one and a half to two hours with a board, rash vest and instructor. Most people stand up on their first or second lesson.

Surf camps offer packages with daily lessons, yoga and accommodation, which suit people wanting a week of progress. You can find surf schools and adventure operators and beach accommodation on VisitLanka.

Board hire

Soft-top boards for beginners and hard boards for experienced surfers are rented by the hour or the day in all surf towns. Check the board for cracks and the leash before you paddle out. Bring your own board if you are particular about shape, and ask your airline about surfboard fees.

Safety and reef

Many breaks in Sri Lanka are over reef, which is shallow at low tide. Wear reef booties if you are not confident, and ask locally about the tide for each spot. Watch for rip currents on beach breaks, and never surf alone at an unfamiliar reef.

Surf etiquette

The surfer closest to the peak has priority. Do not drop in on someone already riding a wave, and paddle wide around the line-up rather than through it. Beginners should stay on the inside or at beginner breaks, away from the main peaks. Respect local surfers, and smile, it goes a long way.

Dress and local culture

Surf towns are relaxed, but outside the beach, cover up. Wear a T-shirt and shorts or a sarong when walking through town, shops and especially near temples. Arugam Bay is in a mostly Muslim and Tamil area, so modest dress away from the beach is appreciated.

Getting there

The south coast is about two to three hours from Colombo by expressway. Arugam Bay is remote, usually reached by road from Ella or the east coast. A private driver is the easiest way to carry boards between towns.

Plan your surf base by season and map it alongside the rest of your trip: Plan your Sri Lanka trip on VisitLanka.

Common questions

When is surf season in Sri Lanka?

On the south and west coasts, November to April. On the east coast at Arugam Bay, May to October.

Where is the best place to learn to surf in Sri Lanka?

Weligama on the south coast, with soft, sandy-bottom waves and many surf schools. In the east coast season, the easier breaks near Arugam Bay are good too.

Is Arugam Bay good for beginners?

The Main Point is better for intermediates, but nearby breaks such as Whisky Point and parts of Peanut Farm can suit beginners on smaller days.

Do I need a wetsuit to surf in Sri Lanka?

No. The water is warm all year. A rash vest or surf leggings are enough for sun protection.

Can I surf in Sri Lanka in August?

Yes, on the east coast. Arugam Bay is in peak season from June to September, while the south coast is mostly too windy.