Joanna James
Blessed with many waterways and surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a great place to indulge in some water sports. Here are some of the best you can try when in the island.
A number of diving centres and resorts around the island offer scuba diving equipment and lessons to tourists. You can start your scuba diving adventure in Negombo and make your way to the south coast near Hikkaduwa. So gear up and slowly traverse the sea waters in search of encounters with vibrant marine life and shipwrecks that tell stories of lost days. Nevertheless, you would be better off seeking advice and gear from a reputed diving centre as only they will be able to guide you towards the best areas to explore.
Both river and sea kayaking are available in Sri Lanka. Both Bentota and Kalutara areas are excellent spots to enjoy kayaking since you could go kayaking in the river and the ocean in both locations. If you are considering staying a few days in Kalutara consider booking a resort such as AVANI Kalutara Resort and include kayaking on your list of things to do in Kalutara. Paddling across a body of water in the breeze will definitely be an exhilarating experience. If you go kayaking in a lagoon in Puttalam you can explore the unique ecosystem of a mangrove based environment. Observe fish, birds and local fisherman go about their lives in tune with the serene yet unpredictable rhythm of nature.
Even if you are not a certified scuba diver you can enjoy the thrill of diving through this particular sport. Snuba diving combines snorkelling and scuba diving to create a brand new water sports activity. You are allowed to dive six metres underwater and explore the sea world up close. As long as you follow the instructions of your instructor you will be safe and you need not worry about decompression.
Feel the chilly, droplet infused breeze sprinkle all over your face and chest and steer ahead on a carpet of creamy foam as you cruise along an exciting journey on water. Bentota is a renowned spot amongst jet ski enthusiasts. You can ski across the Bentara River as well as the seas near the coast. You could either ask your instructor to accompany you or take a friend along on a thrilling ride across the waters.
Arugam Bay is Sri Lanka's favoured surfing joint but you can surf the waters near Hikkaduwa, Weligama, Mirissa, Pottuvil, Talalla and to a lesser extent Kalutara. In the months of July and August, Arugam Bay presents ideal conditions for surfing with a thrilling point break famous around the world. The best time to surf the south coast is between the months of November to April. The Mirissa Bay surf point is crescent shaped and is ideal for beginners. Hikkaduwa has always been a popular surf spot with tourists who seek the thrill of surfing as well as the bohemian lifestyle offered by the area.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
