Here’s why Sri Lanka should be your next surf trip destination

Sri Lanka has become a popular destination for surfers of all levels, offering a diverse range of surf breaks along its coastline

If you’re an adventurous, budget-conscious, surf enthusiast traveler, get ready for the ultimate exotic surf destination. In this guide, we’ll uncover the hidden gems and wallet-friendly wonders that make Sri Lanka the perfect destination for your next surf trip.

THE SURF SEASONS IN SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka experiences two main surf seasons on its east and west coasts, thanks to the influence of the monsoons. The surf conditions vary between the two coasts due to the alternating wind patterns. Here are the surf seasons for East and West Sri Lanka:

East Coast (Arugam Bay):

The surf season on the east coast, particularly in Arugam Bay, is influenced by the Yala Monsoon.

• Main Surf Season: May to September:
  • During this period, the Yala Monsoon brings consistent and powerful waves to the east coast, making it the primary surf season for Arugam Bay. The weather is generally dry and sunny.

West Coast (Hikkaduwa, Mirissa, Weligama, etc):

The west coast experiences surf conditions influenced by the Southwest Monsoon.

• First Surf Season: November to March:
  • During the Southwest Monsoon, the west coast experiences favorable surf conditions. The weather is generally dry and sunny during this period, making it an ideal time for surfing in locations below:

THE SURF SPOTS:

Sri Lanka offers surf spots for every skill level. Beginners and advanced surfers can find their perfect break. To rent a surfboard, it costs around 500-750 LKR (1-2USD) for 1 hour or 2000-3000 LKR (6-9USD) for the whole day. Some places offer rentals for 1 week or more.

Hikkaduwa (1 beach break & 2 reef breaks)

Hikkaduwa is the first stop, with waves suitable for all levels. Beginners can surf on the forgiving beach break in Hikkaduwa beach, while advanced surfers can challenge themselves at the more advanced reef breaks called “Main point”. It is located around 300m north from the beach break. Over 5-6 feet, that wave offers forgiving little barrels. The paddle-out can be tricky in some shallow part of the reef. Ask the locals about the location of the channel for a safe paddle in/out. There is an other wave in front of the restaurant Parrot’s paradise, 1 km north of Main point. It is a small and shallow point break for intermediate surfers. The lively beach scene, coupled with a range of beachfront cafes and shops, creates a laid-back vibe perfect for unwinding after a day in the water.

• The Beach – Beach (beginner to intermediate)
• Main point – Reef (advanced)
• No-name – Point Break (intermediate)

Ahangama (Plenty of reef breaks along the coast & 1 beach break)

Ahangama, the hidden gem of Sri Lanka’s surf scene, offers a tranquil escape with not so crowded breaks. Ideal for surfers from all levels, the waves at Ahangama are mostly reef breaks like:

• Rams – Reef (advanced)
• Sticks -Reef (intermediate to advanced)
• The Rock – Reef (advanced)
• Marshmallow – Deep reef (beginner to intermediate)
• Kabalana – Beach (beginner)

The town’s fancy coffee shops by the water and the famous fishermen on the sticks make the after surf atmosphere out of this world. Don’t miss a single sunset in this area, they are breathtaking!

Midigama (A lot of reef breaks & 2 really crowded point breaks)

For those seeking a surfer’s heaven, Midigama beckons with its consistent waves and surf-centric community. Catering to various skill levels, Midigama’s surf breaks offer an excellent playground for beginners and advanced surfers alike. This is where you can find the famous Lazy left and Lazy right waves. Those are two really good point breaks that you can see from the road. It is a long paddle out and the spot is normally really crowded but when you catch a good one, you can enjoy a minute long ride! If you continue 1 km south, you have Coconut and Plantation, two reef breaks for intermediate to advanced surfers.

• Coconut – Reef (advanced)
• Plantation – Reef (intermediate to advanced)
• Lazy left – Point break (late-beginner to intermediate)
• Lazy right – Point break (late-beginner to intermediate)

Weligama (An enormous beach for beginners & some hidden spots for intermediate to advanced)

Weligama stands as a mecca for surf enthusiasts, known for its long sandy beach and learner-friendly waves. Beginners flock to Weligama to experience the thrill of catching their first waves with ease. The beachfront vibe is electric, with surf schools dotting the shoreline and a bustling community of surfers exchanging tips and tricks. For more experienced surfers you have Fisherman’s point at the very far end of the beach on the northern side. My personal favorite spot is “Jungle beach” 2km north of Weligama beach. There is a perfect left hand point break and a right hand reef break! You can’t see it from the road so it is unknowned (for now). You can rent a board directly on the beach there.

• Weligama bay – Beach (beginners to intermediate)
• Fisherman’s point – Reef (advanced)
• Jungle beach – Point break (intermediate to advanced)

Surf story: I was surfing jungle beach on the low tide with Cam. Only the 2 of us out in a perfect 2-3 feet conditions. I was not paying attention and the current took me to the shallow part, in the inside. It was so shallow that my leash got stuck in the reef at the bottom. At the same moment, a set came and broke right on me while I was stuck. For a few seconds I thought I would drown there since I couldn’t move and the waves were pushing me underwater. After a few seconds (it felt like ages), my leash snaped and I was free. Scary moment in a really easy and comfortable session.

Mirissa ( Perfect place for getting into surfing on the beach break and a point break)

As you venture further along the coast, Mirissa awaits with its scenic beauty and surf breaks suitable for various levels. Novice surfers can find gentle waves close to the shore, while the more experienced can challenge themselves at the outer reefs on the far left side of the bay. It is a really right hand point break with a shallow reef section. Don’t try to stand on the bottom when you surf the reef, this area is full of sea urchins.

• The beach break – Beach (Starting beginners)
• Point break – Reef (intermediate to advanced)

Hiriketiya (A longboard wave by the beach & a good left hand point break)

Nestled in a picturesque bay, Hiriketiya is a surfer’s paradise known for its consistent waves and pristine beach. Catering to all levels of surfers, from beginners to advanced, Hiriketiya offers a friendly and inclusive surf community. The intimate, bohemian atmosphere of the town, coupled with beachfront cafes and yoga studios, adds a holistic dimension to the surf experience, making it an ideal spot to connect with both the waves and like-minded travelers. There are 2 surf spots in the small bay of Hiriketiya. The main beach, which is a perfect small consistent wave for longboarders and beginners. On the far left of the bay there is a good left hand point break, perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers. Again, the point break is full of sea urchins. Don’t put a single part of your body on the bottom. I was surfing there for just an hour and 2 people stepped on sea urchins.

• The Beach – Beach (beginners & longboarders)
• The Left – Point break (intermediate to advanced)

ACCOMODATIONS

Budget-Friendly accommodations like local guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels are available all around the island. You can find the best surf-friendly accommodations that not only offers a comfortable stay but also provide an authentic Sri Lankan experience without draining your travel funds. The ones we really liked are: (no commissions is involved here)

• Kind & love Guesthouse – Hikkaduwa
• Surfing life Guesthouse – Midigama
• The Backpacker hub – Weligama
• Abinu’s Place – Hiriketiya

Those are budget-friendly accommodation where you can meet other travelers and are located close to the surfing spots. Most of them also have a kitchen for you to enjoy some cooking!

THE FOOD

Fueling your adventures with local cuisine, Sri Lanka’s culinary scene is a feast for the taste buds and a treat for your wallet. Dive into a world of mouthwatering street food and local delicacies that won’t break the bank. From savory kottu, roti to spicy samosas and of course the famous Rice and Curry! From 300-1500LKR depending on how local you want to go!

THINGS TO DO THAT’S NOT SURFING

Off-the-beaten-path attractions beyond the waves, Sri Lanka boasts enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures waiting to be explored. Venture off the beaten path to discover hidden waterfalls, ancient temples and vibrant markets, all while keeping your budget intact. We revealed the lesser-known gems that will add an extra layer of adventure to your surf trip on our Sri Lanka Attractions page.

TRAVEL TIPS AND TRICKS

No budget-conscious traveler’s guide is complete without some savvy tips. Always negotiate! Negotiate surfboard rentals, negotiate your tuktuk rides before getting in the 3-wheeled beast and make the most of your rupees. You can download the app “PICK ME” to help you find the good prices for each tuktuk ride. For more travel tips, visit our recent blog on how to travel cheap.

Pack your board, embrace the adventure, and let Sri Lanka be your next surf trip destination—one that promises not only epic waves but also unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. If you have any questions, feel free to write to us via Instagram –> @fencelesstravel

Sam