Best Surf Spots in Sri Lanka
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By Purna
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Sri Lanka, with its stunning coastline, warm waters, and consistent waves, has become a mecca for surfers from around the world. Surf friendly beaches are also the best beaches in the island as well.
East and southwest coast and Two regions in Sri Lanka are ready to entertain their surf guests who are looking for a tropical surf experience.
When the monsoon seasons are shifting its regions from southern province to eastern province, the surfing scene also changes accordingly. Mainly the best surf spots in the south coast are Hikkaduwa, Midigama, Weligama and Hiriketiya, to name a few.
Island’s best surf spots are located on the east coast, around Pottuvil and Arugam Bay. From November till March, the surf season goes live on the south coast. Some of the surfers are seen trying and surfing in almost every surf spot in the southern coast line, just to add different surf experiences to their travel in Sri Lanka adventure lists.
The hype moves to the east coast around May to let it go alive during the months May to October letting Sri Lanka be an all year around surf destination.
Apart from heavy days of Surfing, established yoga centers offer endless possibilities for visitors to relax their bodies and minds with yoga sessions with qualified local and foreign yoga trainers. The ancient system of medicine, “Ayurveda”, is widely used in Sri Lanka. Heal yourself through nature with an Ayurveda herbal treatment from some of the Ayurveda spas in the coastal areas.
If you are a digital nomadic worker, you may hop into a co-working space around Weligama or Ahangama to work while spending time with like-minded souls. Plenty of co-working spaces on the south coast facilitate effective remote working options for nomadic travelers.
From beginner-friendly breaks to challenging reef breaks, the island offers a diverse range of surf spots for all levels of experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice looking to catch your first wave, Sri Lanka has something to offer. Let’s dive into some of the best surf spots the island has to offer.
# Arugam Bay
Located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay is undoubtedly the country’s most famous surf spot. The main break, known as Main Point, offers long, peeling waves that are perfect for both longboarders and shortboarders.
During the surf season from May to October, Arugam Bay becomes a buzzing hub for surfers and beach lovers alike. The laid-back atmosphere, warm water, and consistent waves make it an ideal destination for surf enthusiasts.
Arugam bay can be considered as a converted to a tourist friendly destination during the last couple of decades just because of its thriving surf scene.
Also Read: Best things to Do in Arugam Bay
# Hikkaduwa
On the South west coast of Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa is a lively beach town known for its vibrant nightlife, coral reefs, and, of course, its surf breaks.
Hikka is located about 2 hours away from the Capital Colombo. The main reef break, known as Benny’s, offers powerful and hollow waves, attracting experienced surfers looking to catch the waves.
During the high season from November to March, Hikkaduwa comes alive with surfers from all over the world, creating an energetic and exciting surfing community.
Also Read: Best things to Do in Hikkaduwa
# Unawatuna
Nestled in a picturesque horseshoe-shaped bay, Unawatuna is a beautiful beach town with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
The beginner-friendly waves and warm water make it an excellent spot for those new to surfing. The palm-fringed beach and clear blue waters create a postcard-perfect setting for a day of surfing and relaxation.
Apart from surfing, Travellers chose to go sightseeing in nearby Gall town that has few centuries old stories written in the historical walls of Galle Fort.
Also Read: Best things to Do in Galle
# Midigama
This small coastal village is located in the southern provinces of Sri Lanka where novice and intermediate surfers can catch the more giant waves, especially from December to March.
Located about 160 Kilometers from the capital Colombo, “Midigama” is situated between other tourist towns “Ahangama” and “Mirissa”.
The area was destroyed by the Tsunami in 2004 and re-constructed for tourism even better. Therefore, there is no need to worry for the surfers and visitors as plenty of lodging options are established in the area range from budget stay to star hotels for them to enjoy their surf holidays.
Several guest houses and surf schools in the area if you’d like to rent a range of surfboards or take surf lessons.
A relatively quiet area compared to its nearby Mirissa, where you can find more possibilities and better and bigger nightlife. Cafes and beach bars are only established for those who want to grab a beer and socialize with like-minded travelers.
The Beach village of Midigama can be considered one of the popular surf spots among surfers in 2024.
# Weligama
Weligama, which translates to “sandy village,” is a charming coastal town with a mellow and relaxed surfing atmosphere.
The gentle, rolling waves make it an ideal spot for beginners and those looking to improve their skills.
Weligama surf bay is located by the Colombo to Matara transport line, which makes it easy to roam around other tourist friendly surf spots and beach towns midigama and mirissa which are located either side of weligama surf bay.
The bay is dotted with surf schools and board rental shops, making it the perfect place to learn to surf or simply enjoy the easy, long rides along the coastline.
Also read: Best things to Do in Weligama
# Mirissa
Just a stone’s throw away from Weligama, Mirissa is another gem on the south coast of Sri Lanka. This picturesque bay offers consistent waves and a laid-back vibe, making it a great spot for surfers of all levels.
The mellow waves and stunning sunsets make Mirissa a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil surfing experience.
Also read: Best things to do in Mirissa
# Hiriketiya
Hiriketiya is one of the best rising surf spots and one of the most scenic beaches in the southern provinces in Sri Lanka.
Due to its surf friendly waves, the local beach has become one of the popular surf spots among international surfers within a decade or so.
Hiriketiya is located in the southern coastline of Sri Lanka, about 200 km from the Sri Lanka Capital Colombo. Despite surfing, plenty of yoga schools were established in the area for the surfers to combine wellness with their surf scene.
Also read: Best things to do in Hiriketiya
Final Thoughts
Sri Lanka’s surf spots offer a unique blend of warm water, consistent waves, and a vibrant surf culture that beckons surfers from all corners of the globe. Whether you’re looking for powerful reef breaks or gentle rolling waves, Sri Lanka has something to offer every surfer. With its diverse range of surf spots and welcoming locals, it’s no wonder that Sri Lanka has become a top destination for surf enthusiasts seeking the perfect wave!
Frequently Asked Questions
Peak season of the surf happens in the Southern coastal towns like Hikkaduwa, Weligama, Mirissa, Hiriketiya from October to march. Arugambay starts its season around May and lasts till October.
Plenty of surf schools are established in every surf town. Alternatively, check out in Booksurfcams for the better options.
Yes, Almost all surf spots welcome beginner level surfers, though weligama is known to be the most beginner friendly surf spot in the country.
Plenty of surf schools by the beach rent surf necessities, you just have to walk in and ask!
Renting a surfboard can be as cheap as a couple of dollars, surf lessons can be around 15$ hourly.
