You have seen the pictures of tropical beaches, but have you ever felt what it’s like to ride a wave in a place where the ocean feels like a warm bath? That’s Sri Lanka!
This island is a surfer’s secret, a place that gives you two amazing surf seasons in one. It’s like the island breathes, with the best waves moving from one coast to the other depending on the time of year. So, you are never out of luck.
Forget the usual Sri Lanka tour packages that rush you from one temple to the next. We’ll show you the most popular spots for surfing in Sri Lanka, from the chill vibes of the south to the famous breaks of Arugam Bay. Get ready to find your own slice of surf paradise.
Best Time to Surf in Sri Lanka
One of the reasons surfers love Sri Lanka is that you can catch waves all year round, but the Sri Lanka best surf season depends on which coast you’re heading to.
South & West Coast (Weligama, Hiriketiya, Unakuruwa, SK Town, Mirissa)
- Best season: November to April
- Why: This side of the island gets clean swells, offshore winds, and consistent beginner-friendly waves.
East Coast (Arugam Bay and beyond)
- Best season: April to September
- Why: The East Coast lights up in summer, especially Arugam Bay, which is world-famous for its long right-hand point breaks. This is peak time for intermediate and advanced surfers.
Year-Round Surfing
- No matter when you visit, you’ll always find a coast with good waves. That’s why Sri Lanka is often called a year-round surf destination.
- Many travelers plan their trip around both coasts if time allows, combining the most popular spots for surfing in Sri Lanka with water activities in Sri Lanka and beach life.
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Top 10 Surfing Places in Sri Lanka
Here are the best surfing places in Sri Lanka to visit for a thrilling experience like never before. From beginner-friendly bays to world-class reef breaks, the island has something for everyone, and the good news is that surfing in Sri Lanka price points are super affordable compared to many other destinations. Let’s dive into some of the top spots to know more.
1. Arugam Bay – Adventure Paradise for Everyone
It is genuinely a paradise for every kind of surfer out there! Even if you are a beginner, don’t hesitate to come here for a great time surfing in Sri Lanka.
This is one of the most popular spots for surfing in Sri Lanka, and has many places like Main Point, Baby Point, and Whiskey Point with different conditions. But you need to check the tides to start your adventure.
Start with the lower beaks and then seek the challenge of the point breaks, which can be really amazing. So, get your surfboards and start your thrilling journey now!
Location: Sri Lanka
Surf level: For everyone
Price: INR 2,000/Rental Per Hour
2. Mirissa – A Beautiful Beach with Perfect Waves
This is one of the gorgeous beaches in Sri Lanka that you must visit! Also, among the Sri Lanka surf spots, you cannot miss this one that beckons with perfect waves and a stunning view.
You can enjoy the gentle waves, while experienced surfers can go through the reef breaks with a great adventure. The Mirissa beach has the best conditions at mid-tide when the waves are clean and said to be powerful as well.
Grab this chance to experience surfing in Sri Lanka with all the greatest times ahead.
Location: Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Surf level: For everyone
Price: INR 400-800/Rental Per Hour
3. Hikkaduwa – A Hotspot for Surfing
One of the most famous beach towns on the southwest coast, Hikkaduwa is a classic stop for surfers traveling through Sri Lanka.
The main reef break dishes out long, clean rides for intermediate and advanced surfers, while the smaller beach breaks closer to shore are great if you’re just starting out. The best season here runs from November to April, when the swells are consistent and the weather’s at its finest. Beyond surfing, Hikkaduwa is also a hotspot for other water activities in Sri Lanka, like snorkeling with turtles, diving around the coral reefs, or just paddling out for a relaxed swim.
Location: Sri Lanka
Surf Level: Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced
Price: INR 400-800/ Rental Per Hour
4. Weligama – The Perfect Spot for Beginners
When it comes to beginner-friendly surfing in Sri Lanka, Weligama is the ultimate go-to. This wide sandy bay offers gently, rolling waves that are perfect for learning how to stand up and ride without too much pressure. You will find plenty of surf schools lining the beach, so whether it’s your first time on a board or you just want a quick refresher, lessons are easy to arrange and super affordable.
Location: XCFQ+V73, 34 Weligama By Pass Rd, Weligama 81700, Sri Lanka
Surf Level: Beginner
Price: INR 1,000/Rental Per Hour
Surfing at Unakuruwa Beach, Sri Lanka offers a chilled, semi-hidden cove experience, ideal for beginners due to its protected waters, though experienced surfers can find point breaks further out.
It’s known for its laidback vibe, friendly coastals and warm hospitality, with surf instructors available for lessons. The area is also conveniently located near other popular surf spots like Hiriketiya, which has a more developed surf scene and offers a variety of waves for different skill levels.
Location: 2Q38+WMR, Tangalle, Sri Lanka
Surf level: Suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers
Price: INR 1,500/Rental Per Hour
Kudawella is a fantastic, low-key surf spot near Tangalle, perfect for anyone looking to escape the crowds. The waves are gentle and makes it a great place for surfing in Sri Lanka for beginners.
Since Kudawella is more of a local hunt, you will find small, friendly surf shacks right on the beach. They’ll hook you up with everything you need. It’s an authentic, easy going surf experience that feels truly special.
Location: Sri Lanka
Surf level: Suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers
Price: INR 2,000/Rental Per Hour
Hiriketiya is a breathtaking horseshoe-shaped bay on Sri Lanka’s south coast that has become the perfect spot for surfers, yogis and travelers seeking a more relaxed vibe. The bay’s unique shape protects it from strong winds, making it a fantastic spot for surfing almost all year round.
Because Hiriketiya has become one of the most popular places to visit in Sri Lanka, there are many surf schools and rental shops right on the beach. Prices are competitive and in line with other major surf spots in the country.
Location: Sri Lanka
Surf level: Suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers
Price: INR 2,000/Rental Per Hour
Tallala Beach offers a beautifully peaceful and uncrowded surfing experience on Sri Lanka’s south coast, making it a perfect escape from the more bustling surf towns.
The waves here are typically low-power and easy to ride over a sandy bottom, which makes it an ideal spot for beginners to catch their very first waves and build confidence. While you won’t find a huge number of surf shops, local instructors and guesthouses are available to provide lessons and rentals.
Location: Sri Lanka
Surf level: Beginner-Friendly
Price: INR 1,000/Rental Per Hour
SK Town is a great little surf spot for fun and easy-going beach day. Unlike the big, famous surf towns, it’s more relaxed and not as crowded, which is a big plus. The waves here are perfect for beginners who want to learn how to stand up on their board for the first time. The waves are gentle and roll over a sandy bottom, making it safe and comfortable place to start.
Location: Meddawatta, Matara 81000, Sri Lanka
Surf level: Beginner-Friendly
Price: INR 1,000/Rental Per Hour
Madiha, is a small surf village that feels like a well-kept secret among the surfing community.
It’s best suited to more advanced surfers but, given the location, is also a fine base for all level, as long as you don’t mind tuk-tuking out to the waves in the morning.
While there aren’t many large-scale surf schools, you will find plenty of small guesthouses and local surf shacks that offer lessons and board rentals.
Location: Beach Road, Madiha, Matara, Sri Lanka., Matara 81000, Sri Lanka
Surf level: Suitable for All
Price: INR 2,000/Rental Per Hour
Tips for Sufers in Sri Lanka
Here are some of the surfing tips and tricks you should know:
- Surf the South and West Coast (Nov-Apr) and the East Coast (Apr-Sep) for the best waves.
- Beginners head to Weligama, Hiriketiya, SK Town and advanced surfers to Arugam Bay and reef breaks.
- Respect surf etiquette, no dropping in, share waves and stay friendly.
- Bring reef shoes, a rash guard and reef-safe sunscreen.
- Refuel with local food, nothing beats rice and curry after a surf session.
- Explore beyond surfing, safaris, tea country, temples and cultural spots.
