Traveling Score Traveling Score
← All guides
Surf · Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay: The East Coast Surf Town

By Days of Iru and Opa
Arugam Bay: The East Coast Surf Town
📷 Dennis Sylvester Hurd · CC0 · via Wikimedia Commons · source

Arugam Bay is Sri Lanka’s best-known surf destination, a relaxed strip of guesthouses and cafes along a sandy bay. Its point break draws surfers worldwide in season, while the surrounding coast offers quieter waves and wildlife.

The surf

The Main Point is a long right-hand break suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. Beginners head to Baby Point and Whiskey Point nearby for softer waves and lessons.

The season

The east-coast season runs roughly April/May to September/October, the mirror opposite of the south and west coasts. That is the time to visit for both waves and weather.

Beyond surfing

Lagoon safaris, the elephants of nearby Kumana National Park, and the rock pools around Pottuvil fill the flat days.

The vibe

A’Bay is unhurried, with beach cafes, yoga and long sunsets. It rewards travellers who slow down and stay a while.

Been to Arugam Bay? Rate the places you visited and see what other travelers recommend.

Explore on Traveling Score