Arugam Bay: Best things to do
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Purna
Intro
Situated on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka in Potuvil District, Arugam Bay is well known as the heart of Sri Lanka’s nascent surf scene, is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka as well as the ten best surf spots in the world;
Other than surfing, it offers a great base for visitors to make their visit to Arugam Bay an adventurous one. Let’s explore the 10 best things to do in Arugam Bay and its surroundings.
This best Sri Lankan surf spot offers consistent surf for surf lovers from all over the world During the high season (From April to September).
During the peak season, waves can get heavy and dangerous so the learners are recommended to stick to the ‘Baby point’ which has gentle waves.
Besides surfing, Arugam Bay also has good nightlife; during the peak season packed with surfy party lovers who are enjoying the chilled vibes in the beach pubs and clubs. During the peak season, prices can go 4,5 times higher than in the off-season.
Bit of History
Arugam Bay is one area in Sri Lanka where the Tsunami was badly hit in December 2004. Reportedly, About 10,000 people have lost their lives.
Statistics
Province: Eastern
District: Ampara
Main population: Muslim
District: Ampara
Main population: Muslim
Top 10 things to do in Arugam Bay
1. Explore the nearby surf points in the Arugam Bay area
The village ‘Arugam Bay’ of ‘Pottuvil’ small town has gained popularity not only locally but also internationally mainly because of its surfing scene. Shores of Arugam Bay offer high-quality swells for international surfers to show their skills.
Today, Arugam Bay has become the most prominent surf town in Sri Lanka hosting international surf competitions every year.
‘Main Point’ is where most surfers and tourists hang out for surfing.
Mostly, the ‘Surf Tourism’ of Arugam Bay is based around the main surfing point which is easily accessible via a few minutes of walk from the main road where the majority of surf rental shops and surf schools are located.
It is common to see the bars and clubs by the beach playing music at every night, party scene here gets vibrant during the Saturdays during the high season of April to September.
The bay area next to the ‘main surf point’ is called the ‘Baby Point’ where the non-surfing crowd like swimmers gather to enjoy catching the gentle waves. This area is also ideal for novice surfers and children who want to learn to surf.
It is common to see the bars and clubs by the beach playing music at every night, party scene here gets vibrant during the Saturdays during the high season of April to September.
‘Pottuvil Surf Point’ and ‘Whiskey Surf Point’ are other surf spots to be found locally. Both are located a few kilometres distance away from the main bay area.
Usually, these points open only during the mid-high season to accommodate several foreign guests who prefer varied choices apart from surfing.
2. Taking surf lessons
Arugam Bay surf points are some of the hidden gems of the East Coast that offer both beach and reef breaks for those who want to take their skills to the next level.
Mighty Arugam Bay Waves are best suited for pro-level surfers, though there is also a place for novice surfers who want to learn the game as well.
Experienced local and foreign instructors are ready to offer both private and grouped lessons for those who are at any level of their surfing game. This lesson may typically cost about 15 dollars whereas the renting of a surfboard costs around 3-5 dollars per hour.
3. Visit Attractions: Crocodile Rock
The area around Elephant Rock is one of the most scenic areas around Arugam Bay surrounded by the ocean. This rock is located about 6km from the main beach side of Arugam Bay.
Next to the rock, there’s also a mini remote surf spot and the lagoon where crocodiles are hanging on.
Tip: Be aware that there was true evidence of crocodile attacks in this place. Therefore, skip times when crocodiles come out from the water to the rock for sunbathing and avoid getting into the lagoon for swimming or any of the activities.
4. Try ‘Arugam Bay Special’ seafood dishes
Arugam Bay is undoubtedly the best place on the East Coast to have some of the most delicious seafood you can find in the country. Also, Several beachside restaurants in other coastal towns such as Hikkaduwa, Mirissa, Hiriketiya, and Galle offer this facility for their visitors.
5. Visit National Parks for Safari tours
Few national parks to visit such as Lahugala National Park (13km), and Kumana National Park( 35km) and the Island’s best safari can be found in Yala National Park (100km).
Local tour companies arrange jeep safari tours to these national parks where visitors can spot the best sights to find birds, elephants, leopards and many other species.
6. Visit the historical ‘Muhudu Maha Vihara’ Buddhist temple
‘Muhudu Maha Vihara’ is about 5km from the main surfing point and the Pottuvil town centre.
First Built in the 2nd century BC, Over 2000 years old temple acquired great importance in Sri Lankan history due to the wash ashore place of queen ‘Vihara Maha Devi’, the wife of King Kavantissa and the mother of King ‘Dutugemunu’ who was the first Sri Lankan King to unite the whole Island.
7. Visit the historical ‘Magul Maha Vihara’ Buddhist temple
This ancient Buddhist temple is located in ‘Lahugala’ about 15km from the Arugam Bay beach area.
First built in the 2nd century BC, this temple is believed to be the place where King Kavantissa got married to his queen Vihara Maha Devi. The ‘Magul Maduwa’ where the wedding ceremony took place is still visible on the premises.
8. Day trip to Trincomalee (2.5 hours)
Trincomalee is a city on the Sri Lankan east coast with colonial history. Trincomalee Harbour is well known to be its natural beauty and used to be the main transportation hub for tradesmen from the Middle East.
Trincomalee was bombarded during the 2nd world War and affected during the civil war during the 1980s and after, still renowned its name as one of the three important cities in the eastern provinces of Sri Lanka.
Also read: Top Things to do in Trincomalee
Reaching there
Transportation
If you are looking for sightseeing and wildlife, adventure, honeymoon, cultural tour or pilgrimages, I can help you customize your tour according to individual wishes and requirements. Feel free to contact me mentioning your specific requirements.
Finding Accommodation
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