Joanna James
Blessed with the mighty Indian Ocean surrounding this tiny island, complemented by beautiful landscapes, there are several surf beaches at which novices or professionals both would revel. Brush up on the basics or push the riding to another level, let us explore the best of these surf beaches.
Still retaining a semblance of unspoilt feel to it although getting famous and busy by the day, lies Hiriketiya Beach on the south coast of the island. Holding waves for all grades of surfers from fun waves for beginners and more advanced reef breaks, at Hiriketiya a novice can become a foamy riding surfer in just a few days as you network with people around the world in water and take turns in being cheerleaders and being encouraged and empowered to ride the waves. Situated close to Dickwella resort, a swaying array of coconut palms provides a picturesque background, whilst rustic and homely local cafes serve cocktails right at the Hiriketiya Beach. The best time to surf here is December to March.
A seasoned surfing beach with a rich history. The beautiful beach and the consistent waves attract many surfers from Dickwella Resort & Spa to this idyllic beach. The best time for surfing here is October to April. Provides beach break walls that form gradually and peel gradually towards the shore. In between surfing, grab a king coconut and take your fill from it. Towards evenings the idyllic Hikkaduwa beach becomes a favourite place for party-goers.
On the east coast of the island, the area is scenic and the beach is ideal during April to September when most other parts of the island are drenched by the monsoon rains. The baby point at Arugam Bay is great for beginners, while the main point is right for advanced riders. Try another good surfing beach for advanced riders at Whisky Point north of Arugam Bay. Also around Arugam Bay lies another good point for beginners at Elephant Rock. Depending on the time of the year and experience level of the surfer the ideal surfing beach must be used.
This is another great location for surfers with various points in the vicinity offering diverse rides. It is perhaps not as famous as Hikkaduwa, but the waves are incredible. For beginners, Unawatuna Beach Break, as well as Bonavista Bay, are ideal. For more advanced surfers Dalawella Reef and South Beach are suitable as they have great longboard waves. The best time for surfing at Unawatuna is in July.
A beach that has charm and history. Watch the famous stilt fishermen perched on a cross-shaped beam balancing with care and displaying enormous patience as they await their catch. Many visitors perch across from them to capture this unusual sight. In this backdrop, surfers can catch left and right beach break peaks offering mellow rides during October to April making Weligama Beach one of the best beginner surf spots on the island.
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