Sri Lanka is one of the up-and-coming surf gems of South Asia. Featuring everything from crumbly beginner breaks to rippable points, this stunning island is perfect for surf enthusiasts. Savor delicious eggplant curries and explore mist-shrouded tea fields after an exhilarating day in the water.
With one coast facing the open Indian Ocean and the other peering into the Bay of Bengal, Sri Lanka boasts an enviable location for hitting the waves. Both sides of the island have prime surf conditions at different times of the year – the southwest during winter and the east during summer. Additionally, the relaxed atmosphere is amplified by reggae-surf bars lining the shore and bohemian surf camps catering to all levels of surfers.
Hiriketiya Beach: Two Great Waves
Hiriketiya is often whispered about like a long-lost Shangri-La for surfing, and its rising popularity has sparked development in the small town. Although this hidden paradise may change, it currently remains a gem in Sri Lanka’s southwest.
This perfect hyperbola of a bay is just around the headland from Dikwella city and features bobbing sea turtles and swaying coconut palms. The beach is flanked by two headlands that shape the swells into different breaks: a mellow beach break for beginners and a fast left-hand reef for intermediates.
- Getting to Hiriketiya Beach: Aim for Dikwella first. Cheap buses go there from Colombo and Ella, with a tuk-tuk ride to Hiriketiya taking under 10 minutes at a cost of 200-300₨ ($1–1.50).
Weligama: The Learn-to-Surf Mecca
Weligama may not be the most picturesque town, but it has established itself as the primary destination for those eager to catch their first waves in Sri Lanka, thanks to its expansive horseshoe bay stretching nearly 4.5 miles.
The center of Weligama boasts the best waves, with an inviting beach break and reliable swells. Beginners can take advantage of the crumbly conditions while still having the opportunity to catch bigger waves when the forecast is promising.
- Getting to Weligama: Weligama is easily accessible from the airport and is a popular surf town. However, trains from Colombo take about four hours and cost just 220₨ ($1.10) in second class.
Ahangama: Secret Reefs and Surf Camps
Ahangama is renowned for its numerous surf spots strung along a shelf of reef between Unawatuna and Midigama. Though nestled along a busy road, it is easy to navigate.
Kabalana Beach is a highlight, offering a steep A-frame wave and a sandy beach break for learners. As you travel south through Ahangama, you’ll find more hidden gems like Marshmallow and Sticks, catering to varying skill levels.
- Getting to Ahangama: Seven trains run daily from Colombo Fort to Ahangama station, though many surfers prefer private transfers from the airport, costing about 10,000₨ ($50).
Arugam Bay: Surfing from May to October
During the southwestern monsoon, Arugam Bay becomes the go-to surf destination while other areas face rough currents and heavy rain. Its east coast location enjoys consistent groundswells and sunny days.
With multiple breaks available, the right-hander of Main Point and the beginner-friendly Peanut Farm stand out as popular spots. Over the years, Arugam Bay has grown into a vibrant resort town with plenty of eateries and nightlife.
- Getting to Arugam Bay: A taxi from the airport takes approximately 5 hours and costs between 15,000-20,000₨ ($74-98).
Midigama: Rights and Lefts Over Coral Gardens
Midigama features stunning coconut palms surrounding clear-water coves, presenting an array of surfing options. With a mix of right-and-left reef points, notable breaks include Ram’s for experts and Coconut’s for a fun surfing experience.
- Getting to Midigama: Midigama has its own train station served by daily trains from Colombo Fort. Tuk-tuks from Weligama cost around 300₨ ($1.50).
SK Town: Sandbar Waves
SK Town, or Lakshawaththa Beach, offers a rare beach break amid an area dominated by coral reefs. The shifting banks provide excellent lefts and rights, making it a perfect spot for local surf classes.
- Getting to SK Town: No direct transport is available, so take a tuk-tuk from Matara at a cost of 300-400₨ ($1.50-2).
Hikkaduwa: Surfers’ Paradise with a Lively Atmosphere
Hikkaduwa is one of the most developed surf towns, attracting visitors with its breaks for all levels and vibrant nightlife. Benny’s wave can handle larger swells and offers exhilarating rides, while Narigama Beach serves as a great learner’s paradise.
- Getting to Hikkaduwa: Trains run from Colombo to Hikkaduwa, taking under two hours with tickets starting from 280₨ ($1.40). Private transfers from the airport should cost no more than 10,000₨ ($50).
Mirissa: Surf and Socialize
Mirissa is a hotspot for fun nightlife and surfing alike, receiving the same Indian Ocean swells as its neighbors. Between November and March, it showcases a collection of fast waves over a shallow reef.
- Getting to Mirissa: Take the express train from Colombo to Weligama and then a tuk-tuk around the headland to Mirissa, costing 300-500₨ ($1.50-2.50).
