By RD
The Surf Season in Sri Lanka can be divided into two seasons:
- November to April
- May to October
During the months of November right up to April, the best area to surf in Sri Lanka is the southwest coastline, Hikkaduwa is the most popular surf area during this period of time.
During the months of May right down to October, the best place to surf is the east coast with Arugam Bay being the most popular area to surf during this time of the year. Just make the right choice when choosing your coast and season and I assure you, that you will have the time of your life!
1. Hiriketiya
Located approximately 194 km from Colombo, and roughly about 3 hours of travelling time (if you take the Southern Expressway) Hiriketiya has a lovely little beach area and is an excellent spot for surfing. If you do not own a surfboard you can rent one out for approximately 500/- Sri Lankan Rupees. It is one of the safest beaches to swim in because the depth of the water is just right. Surfing mainly takes place on the left side of the ocean, where you may encounter both beginners and experienced surfers. There is a few restaurants/pubs located on the beach where you can grab a bite and also sip a cold beer if that is something you like to do. It is a beautiful beach area and honestly, if I’m given an opportunity I might even dare rename it, Hiriketiya the hidden Gem.
2. Arugam Bay
Located approximately 412.1 km from Colombo, and a little more than 6 hours of travelling time on the southern expressway, Arugam Bay is a surfer’s paradise. You can encounter waves as high as 6 -8 feet as well as its best at 3-4 feet. It can get quite crowded during the surf season. The best thing about Arugam Bay is its consistency. It is well known for having rideable waves on most days of the season.
3. Weligama
Located about 165 km from Colombo and about 2 ½ hours of travel time on the southern expressway, Weligama Beach is a very popular surf destination in Sri Lanka. If you are just beginning to catch those waves this is the place to get stuck in and master the art of surfing. Who knows, you might just end up being a pro. There is a surf school that’s located close by. They offer both beginner and intermediate lessons. So, if you are keen to learn, this will be a good surfing spot for you. There are a few spots where you can grab a bite to eat from.
4. Mirissa
From Colombo to Mirissa is about 171.7 km via the southern expressway and approximately a little over 2 ½ hours travelling time. Mirissa isn’t considered a surfer’s paradise, but it boasts of a popular reef break which makes it ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers. The Mirissa coast has a string of restaurants and cafes along the shore. They serve fizzy mojitos and fresh coconut water so that you can stay hydrated on your surf vacation.
5. Midigama
The quiet and laid back Midigama Beach is about 162 km from Colombo and is about 2 ½ hours travel time via the southern expressway. Midigama is famous for five consistent surf points within walking distance of each other. You would definitely need an experienced surf guide to ride the Midigama surf breaks as sometimes the waves can get a bit too tough and rough to handle on your own.
Coconut and Plantation – Located 1km south of Midigama Beach, this spot is ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Rams- Sports a short but shallow reef and is best for advanced surfers. Hollow waves and barrels are common here.
Lazy Left- This is a popular surf break in Midigama. It’s ideal for advanced and intermediate surfers. The best time is when the tide is low.
Lazy Right- This area is more conducive for beginners. You can be assured to catch a wave here. It’s safe and is known to hold up big and long surfboards.
6. Ahangama
It is approximately 158.4 km which is about 2 ½ hours from Colombo via the southern expressway. Ahangama is a fishing village located right after Midigama. Ahangama boasts of a gorgeous stretch of picturesque coastline. It offers a variety of surf breaks, from sandy bottom beach breaks for beginners to rocky points and reefs especially for expert surfers. The most popular surf breaks are Stick Point and The Rock.
7. Unawatuna
Unawatuna is about 150 km from Colombo and is about a little over a 2-hour drive if you take the southern expressway. This beautiful beach town is located just south of Galle which boasts of the historical Galle Fort. Unawatuna is beginner-friendly and is also known as the surf beginner’s paradise mainly because of its slow and mellow waves. A bit of friendly advice, if you haven’t surfed before, please hire an instructor if you don’t want to end up having cuts and bruises. You might get a hippie vibe here, with loads of western-style pubs and restaurants.
If you ‘Smile and Wave’ you are sure to have an awesome day with your surfboard!
