Grab your surfboard, zip up your wetsuit, and prepare to hit the waves at one of the world’s best destinations for surfing- Sri Lanka.
Being an island known for both its beauty and breaks, Sri Lanka attracts surfers from around the world every year. With crystal clear beaches, emerald greenery and perfect blue skies, a Sri Lankan surfing holiday is synonymous only with perfection. Whether you are a pro surfer or beginner, Sri Lanka has a surfing spot just for you.
Here are the best surfing beaches in Sri Lanka that you can’t afford to miss during your Sri Lanka surf holiday.
Surfing in Sri Lanka
From tranquil beaches to rough waves, Sri Lanka got it all when it comes to pleasing its surfing travellers to their heart’s content. The island nature of the country makes surfing in Sri Lanka a year-round activity as different parts of the country show different seasonal climate patterns. The mild humidity that ranges from 60% – 90% warms up the water perfectly for you to enjoy your surfing holiday in Sri Lanka. You can find the perfect waves and breaks that suit you regardless if you are a beginner or an expert.
Best time to surf in Sri Lanka
Months from November – April, and May- October are the perfect times for your surfing adventures in Sri Lanka. Head to the Southwest coastline during the November to April period and the east coast during the May to October period.
Best places to surf in Sri Lanka
Finding the perfect surfing location that matches your preferences will make your journey much more memorable. Below are what many consider as the best places to begin your adventure of surfing in Sri Lanka.
Arugam Bay
Widely renowned as one of the best locations for surfing in the whole world, Arugam Bay is what makes the country famous among surfers. Its nature of being beginner and expert friendly is what makes it one of the most crowded beaches around the world in the May to October period. The main point is the go-to location for advanced surfers to satisfy their surfing desires.
Waves from lengths 3-6ft are seen here and if the conditions are right, you will be able to ride waves up to 8-10ft. Consistency is one of the best things about Arugam bay as it provides rideable waves throughout the season. Gorgeous beaches filled with palm trees and colourful nightlife in Arugam Bay will make the surfing holiday in Sri Lanka an unforgettable journey.
Weligama Beach
If you are a beginner trying to learn the ropes about surfing, Weligama is the perfect location for you. Situated in a huge bay in the southern part of Sri Lanka, Weligama offers the best short and smooth waves and protection from heavy swells for new surfers. Top-rated surf schools are also available nearby and you can find surfing instructors and boards easily to make the best out of your surfing holiday in Sri Lanka.
Hikkaduwa Beach
Hikkaduwa is a very famous beach town that is a surfing hotspot and also a beach party destination. The beach offers sand-bottomed waves for beginners and A-frame sections for more advanced surfers. With Hikkaduwa being a populated town, it offers many surf schools, eateries, hotels, bars, and many other places to charge yourself back up after a long day of surfing. The variety of waves offers something to everyone while the beach town attracts fun-seekers. In Hikkaduwa, there’s always something going on to keep yourself entertained.
Mirissa Beach
Most famous for its nightlife, Mirissa also has some good reef breaks. The exposed reef break provides consistent surfing opportunities which is ideal for intermediate and advanced level surfers. Mirissa is located near Weligama beach and beginners can graduate from Weligama beach to Mirissa for a bit more challenge. The parties, nightlife, and the signature coconut cocktail are what Mirissa is known throughout the island and we recommend that you come here for holiday first and surf later.
Elephant Rock
Elephant rock is a beginner-friendly surf spot located 4km away from Arugam bay near a lagoon. The lack of good roads leading to it makes it one of the least crowded beaches on the island. Surf schools and surf shacks are abundant here so you will have no problems finding guides or boards to aid your surfing in Sri Lanka. April to September is considered the best time to visit Elephant rock and make sure to stay clear of swimming in the lagoon.
Ready to plan your wave-chasing trip in Sri Lanka. Get in touch with us to plan the best surfing holiday of your life with Embark holidays.
