Surfing is a sport that has been gaining popularity in Sri Lanka. It is a great way to enjoy the ocean and get away from the stress of life. The waves in Sri Lanka are perfect for surfing because they are consistent and not too big.
Surfing spots in Sri Lanka are all over the country, but some of them have better waves than others, so it is important to do your research before going on a surf trip.
Sri Lanka is also one of the best locations to learn how to surf or get even better at surfing. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful landscapes and world-class beginner surfing beaches.
Surfing season in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island of two halves, with the East and West experiencing different monsoons. In the West, the best waves roll from November to April. In the East, it’s from May to October.
The Best Surfing spots in Sri Lanka and the Locations that Offer the Ultimate Experience
Surfing in Sri Lanka is not the same as surfing in other parts of the world. There are a number of factors that make it one of the best places to surf.
There are many surf spots in Sri Lanka, and they offer different experiences. Some spots have waves that you can ride all day long, while others have waves that break over shallow reefs.
Weligama
Surfer Sri Lanka has been the best place to learn the basics of surfing in Weligama, a coastal town that was once just another sleepy destination.
As you can see on the map below, Weligama is a bay located in the southern part of the island which provides protection from heavy swells. Surfers enjoy softer waves here for beginners. Even when there are strong waves striking through the reef at other nearby surf spots, you’ll find sweet and perfect beginner waves here. Weligama is also among the best surfing spots in Sri Lanka
All along the shore, you can find some of the top-rated surfing camps. These primitive camps are all 500 meters from one another.
if you live in a coastal region and enjoy surfing, there should never be a shortage of options to choose from. Board rentals and instructors are readily available.
Surf.Net is tailored to both beginners and experts alike, which means there’s always something new to explore!
You can go to a lot of good surf spots just within a 15-30 minute drive in both directions from our surf camp: from the Matara, surf breaks to some of the best surfing in Ahangama.
If you’re not quite ready for some of the harder reef breaks, then this is a great way to start off slow and work your way up.
Hiriketiya
Hiriketiya is a horseshoe bay in the south, less well-known than Weligama, but what makes it more of a hidden gem. Hiriketiya is the best Surfing spot in Sri Lanka.
On the island of Sri Lanka, there are whispers of a place called Hiriketiya before it becomes a long-lost Shangri-La for surfing. All that buzz has created lots of development in the area. The worry is not having it there for much longer, though fortunately, for now, it remains a small slice of surf paradise.
Along the headland from Dikwella City across a perfect bay that bends around, you’ll find Hiriketiya. This land of bowing coconut palms and bobbing sea turtles provides two different surfing breaks.
The first is Hiriketiya Beach break, which is perfect for beginners and offers solid rides over urchin-caked rocks. The second break is a fast reef left-hander for intermediates and up, providing ripping rides across urchin-caked rocks.
Casa Vana offers a secluded getaway, whereas Salt House is more centrally located. Be sure to stop by around 9 pm for some refreshing cocktails at “Smoke & Bitters” – they have been rated as one of the top 50 cocktail bars in all of Asia.
Mirissa
When you’re on holiday, there’s nothing better than fizzy mojitos and fresh coconut juice. In Mirissa, there are a few spots worth checking out. Although it’s not considered a surf mecca like some of the other spots on our list, Mirissa has a popular reef break. It’s great for intermediate
and advanced surfers. The shore is lined with restaurants and cafes, as well as a nightlife scene for those after some partying.
Long the playground for boozing in the beachfront bars, Mirissa is washed by the same waves as the rest of Sri Lanka’s southwest coast…
Time for surfers
During the winter, it’s easy to find good waves. These breaks are shallow and fast and perfect for an advanced surfer. The fishing breakwater in the next bay is perfect for intermediate surfers, who can paddle inside or take off on a left-breaking wave.
There’s always something to do in Mirissa. You’ll never find yourself bored with all the things to enjoy, like whale watching and pub crawls. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, you can enjoy some peace and quiet on Secret Beach by scrambling up the hill path. There isn’t any surf, but a couple of idyllic conch-shell coves poke out from between coconut groves – just don’t get too close to misbehaving langur monkeys!
How to get there
Getting to Mirissa: Hop on the express train from Colombo to Weligama and then catch a tuk-tuk around the headland (around four hours).
Midigama
Midigama is a relaxed surf village where you can surf for four to six hours every day. Five consistent surf points are all within walking distance, so your Sri Lanka travel map should include them.
Coco and Plantation, two of the region’s best surf spots, are situated just one kilometer south of Midigama Beach. These two can hold a solid two meters swell.
what is famous for Midigama
Midigama is famous for holding great surf. One of the best spots is Rams, a perfect spot for advanced surfers that love short, hollow waves and powerful barrels.
Known around the globe as the most famous surf break in Midigama, Lazy Left offers perfect conditions for intermediate and advanced surfers with its 500-meter left rides on a better day. The time of year is important, too. Low tide is best.
“Lazy Right” is indeed the best beginner surf spot in Midigama. The reef break and holding waves are perfect for surfing in shallow waters with longboards. When everywhere is closing out, Lazy Right will provide you with a number of great waves.
Arugam Bay is a village in Sri Lanka
Arugam Bay is one of the best places for surfing, with a long-standing reputation for being one of the best spots in Asia. As the top surfing mecca of Sri Lanka, the bay has all the necessary resources to make your experience unforgettable.
Surfing Time
Arugam Bay has a variety of the best surfing spots on the East coast, catering to any level. It’s a surfer’s paradise during the high season, from May to October. You’ll find a bustling community of surfers that are eager and happy.
From Pottuvil Point to Peanut Farm, there are a wide variety of waves suited for any skill level.The waves are the best offshore option for this part of the island and it is not recommended for beginners.
Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is a popular destination for surfers because there are many beaches with waves reaching up to 3ft to 10ft in the high season. The best surf schools in town are on the main beach, making it the perfect place for beginners.
The soft sandy seabed and smooth waves make it a great spot for practicing. If you’re looking for an intermediate surfing spots in Sri Lanka, check out Benny’s – a perfectly shaped reef with a left-hand break. For those who are ready and looking to progress their surfing to the next level, these surf spots will provide a thrill.
SK Town
SK Town is a spot you won’t want to miss near Matara. It’s about halfway between Hiriketiya and Mirissa, so it makes a great stop on your surf trip along the southwest coast of Sri Lanka.
SK is a beach break with shifting banks that create left and rights. They can be pretty punchy, but a good secondary swell makes this spot a prime place for local surf lessons.
Surfing Time
If you want to surf the waves, be sure to visit before 9am or after 5pm. The wind picks up too much otherwise, which makes it really tough to catch a wave.
If you’re staying in town, check out the Ocean Breeze Villa. They have basic cottages that are really welcoming and provide a nice place to stay. For dinner, head over to Uprising Restaurant where they serve fresh coconut curries while playing reggae music from The Wailers.
Unawatuna
When you’re in Galle, be sure to check out Unawatuna, a beach town just south of the city. It has beautiful beaches, plus it’s worth visiting for the history and atmosphere when you’re in the South.
Best surf spots in sri lanka for beginners
Dewata and Clossenburg are top surf spots for beginners in Unawatuna. You’ll find this perfect beach, as well as other beginner-friendly beaches nestled into the inside of the bay.
The coasts around these villages are lined with reefs, and some stretches of sand lead all the way down to Weligama, where our surf and yoga camp is located. Unawatuna also among the best surfing spots in Sri Lanka
Koggala Beach
South Sri Lanka is an excellent destination for intermediate and beginner surfers who can spend time practicing their skills.
The best conditions are in the winter, but continuous waves are not guaranteed at Koggala. The nearby Weligama Beach is also a good choice for beginners; protected from oncoming winds, the waves are manageable but can reach up to 1.5m (5ft).
Ahangama is where advanced surfers head when they come to experience large waves that reach 2.5m (8ft) when in the peak season (January to February).
Okanda
For those looking for quieter, less busy waves. Tuk-tuks an hour south of Arugam Bay will take you to a small East Coast hamlet called Okanda, close to Yala National Park.
This is a favorite spot for intermediates during the dry season (April–September), but it’s in the south that you’ll get the best conditions.
Waves can reach 1.8–2.4m (6–8ft) during the wet season, and this place favors those who are more advanced. They’re not so strong as to overpower novice surfers, but they’re just not worth the risk if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Ahangama
Ahangama, located after Midigama, features beautiful stretches of tropical shoreline with a variety of surf breaks. From beginner-friendly sandy spots to intermediate and expert-level rocky points and reefs, there is something for everyone here.
Stick Point is a classic intermediate reef break, and The Rock at Kabalanas is a popular Surfing spot in Sri Lanka among advanced surfers.
After a 15-20 minute ride by tuk-tuk from surf and yoga camp, you’ll be enjoying beautiful sunrise/sunset surf sessions with incredible views of Ahangama.
Beruwala
This southwest town is a shrewd stop if you want to get in the water when it comes to surfing. With Hikkaduwa just a 25-minute drive away, and consistent surf five minutes down the road at Bentota Beach, you’ll have plenty of options if the waves aren’t breaking on your doorstep.
In Beruwela itself, you’ll find a number of surf schools on Moragalla Beach catering to beginners and offering board rentals, alongside accommodations directly on the beach.
Conclusion
Surfing in Sri Lanka is a unique experience. It will give you the opportunity to explore this beautiful country, meet new people and enjoy some of the best waves on Earth. Surfing spots in Sri Lanka will amaze you definitely.
FAQ
What kind of waves can surfers expect at these spots?
- The spots feature a variety of waves, from gentle rollers perfect for learners to powerful reef breaks catering to experienced surfers, providing a diverse and thrilling surfing experience.
What makes Sri Lanka a great destination for surfing?
- Sri Lanka boasts a diverse coastline with a variety of waves suitable for surfers of all levels. The warm waters, consistent swells, and picturesque beaches make it an ideal surfing paradise.
