With warm waters all year round, palm-fringed shores, and a relaxed island vibe, Sri Lanka has earned its spot on the global surf map. The beauty of surfing here is that no matter the season, there’s always a coastline with good waves the east coast lights up from May to September, while the south coast takes the spotlight from November to April.
Whether you’re chasing your first wave or carving powerful reef breaks, these beaches capture the true surf spirit of the island.
The Best Surf Spots
1. Arugam Bay (East Coast)
Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
Season: May – September
Wave type: Right-hand point breaks over sand and reef
Crowds: Peak season gets busy, but multiple breaks spread the crowd
Why go to Arugam Bay?
The jewel of Sri Lankan surfing, “Arugam Bay” is famous for its long right-hand point breaks like Main Point, Peanut Farm, and Whiskey Point. Surfers from around the world flock here for smooth, consistent rides that can stretch over 400 meters.
Getting There
Private transport from Colombo costs around $120-150 USD one way but can be split with other travelers. Public buses are available but challenging with surf gear.
Where to stay?
Budget guesthouses from $15-25/night, mid-range hotels $40-60/night, luxury surf resorts from $150+/night.
Inspiration
At sunrise, the bay glows golden, and by night, the beach cafes come alive with reggae beats, BBQs, and bonfires. Arugam Bay isn’t just a surf spot it’s a lifestyle.
2. Weligama (South Coast)
Best for: Beginners
Season: November – April
Wave type: Natural Sandy bottom beach breaks with gentle, rolling waves
Crowds: Popular but spacious bay handles numbers well
Why go to Weligama?
Weligama translates to “sandy village”, and that’s exactly what you’ll find a wide sandy bay with gentle rolling waves. Surf schools and rental shops line the shore, making it the easiest place in Sri Lanka to pick up a board and learn.
Getting There
2.5 hours from Colombo by car/taxi ($60-80), or take the train to nearby Matara then tuk-tuk (15 minutes).
Where to stay?
Coconut Bay Resort, Salt House, or budget guesthouses from $20/night.
Board rentals
Boards rent for about $7 USD/day, or $5 USD/day for weekly rentals
Inspiration
Between lessons, sip king coconut water, take a slow walk through fishing villages, or join yoga classes by the beach. The sunsets here are unforgettable, painting the ocean in fiery shades of orange and pink.
3. Hikkaduwa (Southwest Coast)
Best for: All levels
Season: November – April
Wave type: Beach breaks and reef breaks, variety for all skills
Crowds: Busy main break, but alternative spots nearby
Why go to Hikkaduwa?
A legendary surf town since the 1970s, Hikkaduwa is buzzing with energy. Beginners can paddle into mellow waves, while advanced surfers head to reef breaks like Benny’s.
Getting There
2 hours from Colombo by train ($2-5 depending on class) or bus ($3-4).
Where to stay?
Wide range from backpacker hostels ($10/night) to beachfront hotels ($100+/night).
Safety note
Watch for sea urchins and coral on reef breaks. Local surf shops rent reef booties.
Inspiration
After surfing, explore coral reefs, enjoy seafood curries by the beach, and dive into the town’s lively nightlife a balance of waves and wanderlust.
4. Mirissa
Best for: Intermediates
Season: November – April
Wave type: Right-hand point break in protected bay
Crowds: More mellow than Weligama, good for intermediate progression
Why go to Mirissa?
Tucked in a crescent-shaped bay, Mirissa offers fun right-hand waves with fewer crowds than Weligama. It’s ideal if you want surf mixed with laid-back tropical vibes.
Getting there
Similar to Weligama – train to Matara then short tuk-tuk ride.
Where to stay?
Beach hotels and guesthouses $25-80/night.
Beyond surfing
Famous for whale watching tours (blue whales Nov-Apr), plus great seafood restaurants.
Inspiration
Between surf sessions, go whale watching, hike up to Coconut Hill for panoramic views, or simply relax in beachfront cafés with fresh seafood and cocktails.
5. Unawatuna (South Coast)
Best for: Beginners and casual surfers
Season: November – April
Wave type: Protected bay with small, gentle waves
Crowds: Mixed tourists and surfers, not primarily a surf destination
Why go to Unawatuna?
While Unawatuna is better known for snorkeling and swimming, its mellow surf breaks make it perfect for travelers who want to try surfing without the intensity.
Getting There
Easy access from Galle (20 minutes by tuk-tuk $3-5) or public transport.
Where to stay?
Thaproban Beach House, Pink Elephant, or budget places from $15/night.
Inspiration
The beach itself is one of the most photogenic in Sri Lanka, with turquoise waters and leaning coconut palms ideal for those who want both adventure and relaxation.
6. Okanda (East Coast)
Best for: Advanced surfers
Season: May – September
Wave type: Powerful reef breaks, can be heavy
Crowds: Remote location keeps crowds minimal
Why go to Okanda?
Remote, wild, and powerful, Okanda is where serious surfers chase uncrowded waves. Its raw charm lies in its isolation, located near Kumana National Park.
Getting there
4WD recommended, especially during monsoon season. Often combined with safari trips.
Where to stay
Basic guesthouses or camping this is adventure territory.
Safety
Remote location – travel with others and inform someone of plans.
Inspiration
Beyond surfing, Okanda feels like stepping back in time untouched beaches, wildlife encounters, and a sense of pure adventure.
Practical Planning Guide
Board Rentals & Equipment
Daily rates: $5-7 USD per day, with weekly discounts available
Board quality: Range from soft top learners to quality fiberglass boards from brands like NSP and Torq
What’s included: Leash and wax usually included
Reef booties: Essential for reef breaks – rent or buy locally ($10-15)
Surfing Lesson
Average beginner level surfing lesson can cost $20+ per 1 hour which included ground training exercises + shallow water surfing.
Transportation
Around surf spots: Tuk-tuk drivers cost $5-20 USD per day depending on negotiation skills.
Between south coast spots: Rent a scooter ($10-15/day) or use tuk-tuks for short distances.
Train travel: Coastal railway connects Colombo to Galle and beyond which covers Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Weligama and Mirissa – scenic and affordable.
Budget Breakdown (per week)
Budget traveler: $200-300 total
- Accommodation: $10-20/night
- Food: $10-15/day
- Board rental: $35-50/week
- Transport: $30-50
Mid-range: $400-600 total
- Accommodation: $40-60/night
- Food: $20-30/day
- Activities and transport: $100-150
Luxury: $700+ total with luxury surf-yoga retreats available
Safety & Etiquette
Water safety
- Always surf with others, especially at remote breaks
- Check with locals about conditions and hazards
- Reef cuts are common – bring antiseptic cream
- Strong currents possible during monsoons
Cultural respect
- Tipping not expected but appreciated (10-12% at restaurants)
- Learn basic Sinhala: “Ayubowan” (hello), “Bohoma Stuti” (thank you)
- Respect temple areas – cover up when visiting
- Support local surf instructors and shops
When to Visit
South Coast (Nov-Sep)
- Dry season, light, offshore winds
- Peak tourist season = higher prices
- Best waves: December to March
East Coast (May-Sep)
- Dry season for east, wet for south
- Fewer tourists, better value
- Best waves: June to August
Beyond the Waves
Sri Lanka’s surf spots offer incredible opportunities to dive deeper into the island’s rich culture and natural wonders. Combine your surfing adventures with wildlife encounters like whale watching in Mirissa, where blue whales migrate through deep waters just offshore, or venture to safari tours near Okanda where elephants and leopards roam Kumana National Park. The island’s cultural treasures await between surf sessions explore ancient temples carved into rock faces, wander through fragrant spice gardens where cinnamon and cardamom grow wild, or journey into the misty central hills where emerald tea plantations carpet the mountainsides. The food scene perfectly complements the surf lifestyle with fresh seafood curries served beachside, traditional hoppers for breakfast, and refreshing king coconut water straight from the shell after long sessions in the water. For those seeking wellness and balance, many surf towns offer morning yoga classes overlooking the ocean, traditional Ayurvedic treatments to soothe surfed-out muscles, and peaceful meditation retreats where you can find your center between the waves.
Final Wave
Surfing in Sri Lanka isn’t just about the waves it’s about the rhythm of island life. Mornings begin with sunrise surfs, afternoons with yoga and coconuts, and nights with beach bonfires under starry skies.
Whether you’re a beginner catching your first ride in Weligama or an experienced surfer chasing the perfect point break at Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka will inspire you both in the water and beyond. The island’s warm hospitality, consistent waves, and incredible value make it a surf destination that keeps calling you back.
