Sri Lanka has always been famous for its beaches. In fact, 70% of tourists who visit the island, do so to enjoy its magnificent offering of sea, sand and relaxation. However, did you know that Sri Lanka is a superb destination for surfing? A common sight on Sri Lanka streets is a Tri-Shaw carrying two foreign passengers with two massive surfboards haphazardly tied to the roof. Travellers spend months on end, lazing on soft sands, enjoying wave after wave, from sun up till sun down.
Sri Lanka is an island of two halves, with the East and West of the island experiencing different monsoon seasons, with the west side of the island getting the best waves between November and April, and the east between May and October.
Best areas for surfing in Sri Lanka
It is of paramount importance that you should know where to go surfing beforehand. If you are a pro surfer, you might get disappointed at Nilaveli as the waves are much tamer compared to other beaches. If you are a beginner, you should try Arugambay with caution as the waves can get quite violent and dangerous at times. So let’s see what areas will suit you the best.
Arugambay
The East coast is home to two of the best beaches in Sri Lanka for surfing. If you are a hardcore surfer, you absolutely must not miss out on these two locations. The quintessential surfing destination in Sri Lanka is Arugambay. A quaint seaside town during the day and a simmering party destination come nightfall; Arugambay is Sri Lanka’s most popular surfing destination. With perfectly shaped consistent waves lapping into a mile-long stretch of beach, Arugambay is a spectacle in itself. It also plays hosts to the Red Bull Ride My Wave surfing competition every year, attracting the very best surfers from all over the world.
The best time to visit Arugambay
The best time to visit Arugambay is during the season which falls between May and October. It is when the sea is particularly calm and the beaches are teeming with other surfers.
Best for – Hardcore surfers and Beginners on certain seasons
Nilaweli
The second popular surfing destination on the east coast is Nilaveli. Located towards the northern half of the east coast, Nilaveli has been named after its famous powder blue sea. During low tide in the summer, it is possible to walk up to a mile into the sea with your head very much above the water. It is also famous for being home to the largest pod of blue whales in the world. The lesser known fact about this fantastic beach is that is also a famous destination for surfing. While the waves may not be as consistent as Arugambay, it is still a famous spot for surfers in Sri Lanka.
Best period to visit Nilaveli
The best period to visit Nilaveli for surfing is during the summer, which spans from the end of March towards the end of October.
Best for – Hardcore surfers
Weligama
As we move on to the West Coast of Sri Lanka, we come across the more mainstream beaches that are suitable for both pro and novice surfers. Amongst these beaches, Weligama is often considered the best due to its wide stretch of beach, calm sea and surfer friendly locale. It is in close vicinity to Galle, making it a geographical double whammy. Many travellers prefer the cheaper accommodation available in Weligama and travel between the cities to save money.
When to travel to Weligama for surfing
The season for Weligama falls between November and April. During this time the sea is perfect for surfing. It is also not a largely crowded beach and is a super option if you are looking for solitude. Watch the famous stilt fisherman go about their business whilst sipping on a mango lassi in between surf sessions.
Best for – Novice Surfers
Hikkaduwa
An option that is relatively close to the capital of Colombo is the coral infested waters of Hikkaduwa. While being a staple on the surfing schedule for Sri Lanka it is also famous for its diverse marine life. Temperatures here reach for the high 30’s, therefore, it is always best to be prepared. Hikkaduwa is also home to a variety of hotels, numerous boutique properties and various hostels and homestays. Therefore it is a location for those travelling on almost any budget.
When to go to Hikkaduwa for surfing
Surfers are advised to visit Hikkaduwa in the period from October to April.
Best for – Hardcore & novice surfers
Mirissa
Mirissa is another famous surf spot in Sri Lanka that is good for the intermediate and experienced surfers. It has regular waves and features amazing views and pristine nature. In addition to being a popular surfing spot, Mirissa is known for its marine life and is thought to be one of the best places to explore the underwater world in Sri Lanka. Thus, in addition to surfing, you can also try snorkelling and diving, or even go dolphin watching.
When to go to Mirissa for surfing
The best time to travel to Mirissa for surfing is from September till May.
What surfing enthusiasts can expect from Sri Lanka
If surfing occupies a considerable space in your tour itinerary, you need to be aware of a few things:
- Renting out a surfboard is quite cheap in the major surfing hotspots. If you are a novice looking for a tutor and a few lessons in surfing, you will easily find coaches along the beach at the surfing locations.
- The tides at these beaches could get dramatically intense during certain seasons. A beginner to surfing will not be able to hold his ground through the waves during these seasons. So make sure you ask people around if it is safe before you begin.
Destinations you should visit if you are going to Sri Lanka for surfing: Summary
Arugam Bay
Where: South-East Sri Lanka
Beach: Beautiful moon shaped bay that has a host of beachside cafes and food shacks, as well as all the amenities you need for a day out at the beach
Type: Arugam Bay is easily one of the best beginner surf spots in Sri Lanka, especially for regular footers, with an endless supply of right-hand sand bottom points and beaches, the only factor will be your stamina!
Best Time to visit the Arugam Bay: April to October
Weather: Daytime highs can reach 34ºC with evenings dropping to around 26ºC. The sea temperature, like all of Sri Lanka, feels like bathwater and stays around 28ºC all year.
Weligama
Where: Matara District, Southern Sri Lanka
Beach: 2km sandy beach that mixes local heritage with tourism perfectly and is unrivalled in beauty. The famous Taprobane Island lies just off the sand at Weligama and is steeped in history
Type: Left and right beach break peaks that offer mellow rides that make this one of, if not, the best beginner surf spot Sri Lanka has.
Best Time: October to April
Weather: The southern part of Sri Lanka boasts an incredible 330 days of sunshine a year with temperatures ranging from lows of 22ºC during the night to highs of 33ºC during the day. The sea water fluctuates between 27 – 29ºC year round, making board shorts, UV rash guard and plenty of sunscreen the go-to attire for your Sri Lanka surf trip
Hikkaduwa
Where: Galle District, South-West Sri Lanka
Beach: Picture perfect long beach that is fringed by coconut trees and food & drink stalls
Type: Beach break walls that form slowly and peel slowly towards the shore
Best Time: October to April
Weather: Hot! Highs of 33ºC, night-time lows of 24ºC.
Mirissa
Where: Located a couple of kilometres east of Weligama in the Matara District.
Beach: the Quiet stretch of beach that boasts some of the most turquoise and crystal clear waters you can get, that are framed by green palms and lush grasses.
Type: Mellow right-hand reef break that is the perfect introduction to reef breaks as it peels slowly and breaks over deep water
Best Time: October to April
Weather: Lows of 23ºC and daytime highs of 31ºC. Sea temperature hovers around 28ºC.
Best villas & hotels to stay at close to surfing spots in Sri Lanka
- Sharavi Beach Villas at Mirissa
- Talaramba Reef at Mirissa
- Taru Villas – 906 at Hikkaduwa
- Villa Sepalika at Hikkaduwa
- Suriyawatta Villa at Weligama
- Red Cliffs at Weligama