Surfing is the most popular water sport in Sri Lanka. Travelers from all over the globe come here for perfect and severe waves. Compared to other popular surf resorts, prices for equipment rental and surf lessons are very low. There are many surfing spots around the island, in southwestern and eastern regions, so there is enough space for everyone.
Here is the list of Sri Lanka surf spots and beaches to check; keep reading this post to get more details about best places to in Sri Lanka, season and other important details.
Book a 1-hour Weligama surf lesson here .
Sri Lanka Surf Season
The underwater relief of the island is varied; therefore, the strength of undercurrents and wind direction differ on different coasts. All this contributes to the formation of waves of different lengths. Therefore, it is important to know where best surf spots in Sri Lanka are located and depending on the coast choose the best time for visiting.
Due to its geographical position, surfing in Sri Lanka is possible at any time of the year. Since Sri Lanka is a tropical country, air and water temperatures remain quite comfortable throughout the year.
South Sri Lanka Surf Spots
Surfing on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka is possible from November until the end of March. Weligama, Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, Beruwala, Balapitiya, Dewata beach, Ahangama, Tangalle, Koggala Beach, Midigama beach, Hiriketiya. When the season in this part of the island ends, many surf spots stop working.
Unlike the east coast, in the southwest of Sri Lanka, even during off-season, you can find places sheltered from the winds where you can surf.
1. Surfing in Hikkaduwa
Surfing in Hikkaduwa is simply magnificent, the best time to visit is during the winter, when weather conditions are just perfect.
Hikkaduwa coast is conditionally divided into two main parts, sand and reef. If you’re a beginner, go ahead to the sand part where newbies learn how to surf. The reef part is where experienced surfers and those who take surfing lessons from very experienced trainers master their skills.
It’s possible to rent surfboards right on the beach. The cost per hour will be 400 rupees. The longer the rental period, the better the price. You can take private or group classes.
2. Surfing in Mirissa
Mirissa is located 40 km from Hikkaduwa and is considered one of the most picturesque coasts of the entire island. Its length is only about one and a half kilometers. But if you add here the neighboring coasts, then the total length of the beach will be much longer.
Mirissa is famous for its waves, which almost never subside here. But on this coast there is a rocky bottom, so beginners should be really careful.
There is a famous large rock called “Parrot” located on the beach. From its top you can admire the local landscapes and Indian Ocean sunsets.
3. Weligama
The beach is located 5.5 km from Mirissa. Surfers are mostly choose its eastern part. Weligama is well suited for both beginners and experienced surfers. The beach here is sandy, there are no pitfalls.
If you’re planning your trip to Sri Lanka with the goal to learn how to stand confidently on a surfboard make sure to take several lessons with instructor. He will explain all the necessary points, teach the necessary skills and precautions.
Lessons with a professional is the key for a newbie to get out of the ocean safe and sound. As a rule, surf lessons last from 1 to 2.5 hours and include theory and practice.
5. Surfing in Unawatuna
This location is visited by beginner-level surfers or complete newbies. To do this, you can choose the Unawatuna Beach Break or the Bonavista bay. Small waves also in Kabalana beach break, but be careful, there is a strong current and no lifeguards.
6. Dewata, Galle Beach
It cannot be called one of the most picturesque beaches in Sri Lanka, but for more than 5 years it has been popular among those who come to Sri Lanka for surfing. Dewata Beach is a great place to hone your skills, you can come here to practice almost all year round.
7. City of Beruwala
The town is only 25 minutes drive from Hikkaduwa. On the Moraggala beach you can find numerous surf schools, places where you can rent a board and other equipment. Moraggala Beach is also great for beginners who just learn how to surf. It is possible to stay here for the night.
8. Balapitiya
The measured life of a small fishing village noticeably changes from November to March, when the waves break on the shore and surfers come here from everywhere. Balapitiya is located 80 km south of the capital of Sri Lanka – Colombo. You can get to Balapitiya by train or by car.
9. Surfing in Ahangama
In this unremarkable fishing village you can find perhaps the best surf camps in Sri Lanka. There are surf spots for surfers with different experience level. Thickets of palm trees stretch along the coastline, a great place to take a break while waiting for new waves. The most popular surfing places in Ahangama are Kabalana Beach and Rajith surf point. Ahangama also hosts local surfing tournaments.
10. Koggala Beach
This place is for those who already have some experience in surfing. Beginners should be careful as there are strong currents and big waves. While you are waiting for the next wave, you can visit the turtle hatchery and Koggala Lake.
Sri Lanka East Coast Surfing
Surfing season in the east coast of Sri Lanka starts in April and lasts until the end of October. The main surfing spot is Arugam Bay and Okanda.
The two months that are least suitable for this water sport are May and October. During this period, Sri Lanka often experiences heavy storms.
4. Arugam Bay
The village of Arugam Bay is the most important surf spot in Sri Lanka. During surf season, a very special atmosphere reigns here, as surfers from all over the world flock to Arugam Bay.
Different types of competitions are also take place there. All surf schools in Arugam Bay are English-speaking. You can stay in a guest house, rent a board, and get lessons.
On average, lesson price is 20-30 USD in surf schools with English-speaking instructors, that usually have different international certificates. In small local schools price can even be less – 15-20 dollars.
You can also check Pottuvil – one Sri Lanka surf spots located close to Arugam Bay.
11. Okanda
Okanda is located near Yala National Park. Okanda surf spot is never crowded compared to other popular locations in Sri Lanka. Since this place is quite difficult to find, it may be a good idea to use guide services. There are many jellyfish in coastal waters, so be careful. Waves can reach from 0.5 to 2.4 meters, which is more suitable for both intermediate and advanced surfers.
