Surfing in Sri Lanka

Happiness comes in waves. Apart from the cultural and historical significance, architecture, breathtaking scenery and delightful cuisine; Sri Lanka is well known for its beaches and surfing. And the best thing about surfing in Sri Lanka is the year round waves. The different monsoon seasons divide the island into to two halves from November to May for the south coast and from April to October for the east coast, making Sri Lanka a paradise for all levels of surfers.


Best surf spots in the southern coast

Weligama - located in the Matara District in southern Sri Lanka, Weligama is perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers. The long stretch of sandy beach delivers long rides when the conditions are just right, and can get quite crowded due to its popularity.

Mirissa – found a few kilometers east from Weligama, Mirissa, with its scenic bay and easy going right-hand reef break is ideal for all surfers. Still hidden from most travelers, Mirissa is way less crowded and offers the chance to surf with dolphins and whale watch.

Unawatuna ¬– with a left-hand break for professionals and a shallow break with a sandy bottom for beginners, Unawatuna is one of the most visited beaches in Sri Lanka. Along with its great surf waves and breathtaking scenery, the beach is also famous for snorkeling and diving.

Hikkaduwa – located in the Galle District, Hikkaduwa is the surfing capital of the south coast. The small surfing town is the best developed, with surfing schools, rentals and cafes and bars on the stripe. As the waves at Hikkaduwa rarely go flat, Hikkaduwa is best for beginners and intermediate surfers.


Best surf spots in the east coast

Arugam Bay – often compared to Kuta in Bali, the beautiful moon shaped bay is probably the most travelled and surf-friendly place on the island. With its waves reaching as high as 10 meters, the beach is ideal for all surfers, and is filled with travelers who make their way from all over the world during the April to October season.

Okanda – a must visit for the experienced surfer. Located south of Arugam Bay, Okanda is a small village that is home to a main right-hand point break that is completely exposed and is technical and wild.

Peanut Farm – found within easy reach of Arugam Bay, the Peanut Farm is a semi-secret surfing spot that is ideal for all surfers. With a right-hand point break with two sections as Main Break and Baby Break, the beach offers exhilarating rides for surf lovers.




Written By: Kavisha Perera