Joanna James
The consistent swells of Arugam Bay, the tropical waters of Hikkaduwa and the vibrant beach culture of Weligama — these are just a few quintessential examples that make Sri Lanka no stranger to the global surf scene. But, beyond these household names lies a surf experience yet to be discovered. So let's discvoer the island's secret coastal gems that give way to some of the best surfing adventures one could ever hope for.
Arugam Bay is a surfer’s paradise that needs no introduction, especially when it comes to the southwest monsoon of Sri Lanka, as beachgoers shift from the south and western coasts to the east. Just south of Arugam Bay is Okanda, a small hamlet on the edge of Yala East National Park. While tourists flock to the breaks of the more popular beach town, the few in the know set off down the dusty coastal road to Okanda. Surfers are greeted by a long right-hand point break over a reef, which is perfect in early mornings when the wind is calm. It is advisable to bring your own supplies because when you are in Okanda, it is just you, the jungle and the wide-open seas.
Nestled between the vibrant Ahangama and Hikkaduwa beach towns, Kahawa is a tiny coastal village that many surfers to the area even barely notice. Kahawa’s rather obscure nature not only makes for a place of tranquillity in the lively coastal belt, but also treats you to powerful reef breaks that also work during the southwest monsoon. Visit early to catch the sunrise for the best surf experience, where most likely you’ll be the only one in the water, with nothing but palm trees and fishermen watching.
Tangalle in the south is no stranger to the surfing community of Sri Lanka. In fact, it is one of the most popular destinations for Sri Lanka beach holidays, as offered by many tour operators, such as Walkers Tours. But, hidden among the town’s rocky coves is a point break that is not well known by many, awaiting your discovery.
Unlike the tourist hotspot in Central America, the Panama in Sri Lanka is a small, little-known village on the island’s east coast, in the vicinity of the aforementioned Arugam Bay and Okanda. While it’s the mellow reef break with long rides that await the longing surfers, nature lovers also have something exciting in store for them — the brown-toned shelly creatures of the tropical blue — majestic sea turtles. Keep your eyes peeled at the takeoff zone; they might just pop up out of the water.
Those heading down to the popular surf town, Kalpitiya, in the south, Kudawa is the place to catch a wave or two without the bustling crowds. It is a small fishing village that has started to draw the attention of tourists to the area just recently. It is home to a fast, hollow wave that breaks over a sharp reef, which is recommended only for well-experienced surfers.
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