Welcome to the surfers’ paradise, Arugam Bay which is also a safe haven of an oasis located on the calm eastern coasts of Sri Lanka disconnected from the country's major tourist destinations. To anyone who would want a different approach into travelling, this charming place would be the perfect getaway thanks to its cosy allure. Arugam Bay, one of Sri Lanka's greatest beachside getaways that is well-known among surfers, warmly welcomes you with its gorgeous beaches and abundant wildlife. Experience this paradise at its best by avoiding the monsoon season which is from May to September. Arugam Bay's appeal lingers all year long and offers you a variety of activities that will suit your preferences while the popular waves that attract surfers and the vibrant nightlife that brings in a flurry of excitement can be experienced from June to August. As Arugam Bay is situated within Sri Lanka's tropical embrace, its climate tends to be generally delightful.
Discover the hidden wildlife gem, the Pottuvil Lagoon, which is only 4 km away from Arugam Bay. This 200-acre lagoon offers a tranquil cruising experience in boats or and canoes. Compared to the murky greenish-brown appearance, the shallow depth of the lagoon is made to look plain by the stunning reflection of the bright blue sky which makes it appear as though it were a mirror. The lagoon that is surrounded by thick mangrove woods becomes very lively because of the abundant wild animals like Sri Lankan Macaque Monkeys and sunbathing crocodiles adding to the excitement it holds. The most fascinating fact is the popularity that the lagoon holds for the opportunities it offers to study elephants. You can witness a lot of elephants in the evenings because they arrive at that time for a refreshing swim which gives you a chance to watch their amusing water tricks from a distance that's very secure. Explore and enjoy the lagoon at its best in the mornings or evenings by taking a boat ride. Make sure to keep an eye for the elephants along the border of the lagoon!
Enjoy the serene atmosphere at Muhudu Maha Vihara which is a renowned Buddhist temple with a long history that dates back to more than 2000 years. As you take a stroll on the shores of Arugam Bay, you are able to witness its stunning white stupa, which is located on top of the white sand dunes of Pottuvil.
According to folklore, Princess Devi had arrived at this sacred site after being given as an offering to the deities in order to control the outrage of a tsunami. Later, she became Viharamahadevi, the mother of King Dutugamunu. Surrounded by the ruins and artefacts covered in sand, this temple is very much of a must-see location for Buddhists and for anyone who loves history. This rich cultural heritage that is left behind contains fascinating sculptures and stone Buddha statues. Make sure to dress modestly and explore the enchanting historical heritage of Muhudu Maha Viharaya when you visit Arugam Bay where mornings and evenings would be the best time for a visit.
Arugam Bay is the surfing paradise of Sri Lanka. Renowned as the only international surfing destination in the island, Arugam Bay can be found in the list of the top 10 surfing destinations in the world. Due to its world-class waves, Arugam Bay attracts surfers from worldwide, especially from April to September, with favourable conditions continuing into the latter months. Although surfing is accessible all year long, the famous Arugam Bay waves can't always be counted on.
Tucked away at the calm southeast coast of Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay lets surfers of all skill levels enjoy a variety of experiences as it is unaffected by the severe monsoons that hit the west coast. While offering breathtaking scenery, it also offers a variety of breaks for the surfers of all skill levels therefore its reputation as a top surfing location is well-deserved. It is renowned as one of the most affordable surfing destinations in the world. The waves may surf as high as six feet tall on exposed beaches which makes them perfect for a south-east swell. However, safe point breaks offer greater waves even in larger swells.
Are you a beginner surfer? Then surfing at Elephant rock beach would suit you as it is the most highly favoured surfing spot for beginners. The Elephant Rock gets its name due to its resemblance of an elephant and is a magnificent, less crowded region with a pristine beach. The region is less crowded due to limited road access but you can take a tuk-tuk along the main road and then take a short stroll, crawl through and sometimes make your way across through certain places to get to this dazzling destination.
Elephant Rock is a charming rock formation that offers you breathtaking panoramic vistas and it is a lovely, underdeveloped golden beach. At the back of it, you can find a gorgeous lagoon and a little mangrove forest, however it is wise to not go swimming there. You might have to plunge through the waters to get to the beach during high tide since the sea water overflows the lagoon and swallows the sandbank that connects the two.
The most enjoyable surfing season flows from April to September, and there are several surf shacks where you're able to readily rent surfboards if you are already a good surfer. There are several surf classes where newbies can enrol to officially start off on their surfing journey.
Crocodile Rock is a treasure trove for surfers situated to the south of Arugam Bay which is very much less popular. Located nearby Yala National Park, this place is a jungle-meets-sea region that has a flourishing wildlife population. The rocky formation of Crocodile Rock combines the splendour of nature with the incredible waves of the azure waters. Make sure to respect and keep in mind any written cautions. Always keep an eye out for crocodiles but also for a variety of Sri Lankan wildlife as you explore the neighbouring wilderness.
Crocodile Rock is a much tranquil setting with a surfing environment of lesser crowd compared to the more active beaches of Arugam Bay. This allows a more convenient access to decent waves. This region has continuous point breaks with waves that average 400m in height. All levels of surfers, including beginners, can benefit from it. It would be better to follow weather forecasts due to the weather changes that occur from time to time in Sri Lanka. You can visit this destination during the season from May to September, however if you want to surf then the best surfing period is in the months of July and August.
Another treasure of Arugam Bay which is a popular surfing destination is Pottuvil Point, located 6km to the north. This surf break offers right-hand waves that are beginner-friendly and points with sandy bottoms. It is located on a tiny island about 400 miles from Colombo and is home to a variety of restaurants and lodging choices that compliment the consistent waves of this destination while enhancing the experience.
Pottuvil Point has become a desirable surf location because it is tucked away at the border of a beautiful ocean, gorgeous landscape, and tranquil lagoon. There is a synergy of wind swells and groundswells frequently coming from the south or southeast which are welcomed at this uncovered point break. These swells are driven by the offshore winds that come from the west/southwest. The sand-bottom point, which extends to about 1km in the direction of the coast, offers you a delightful surf on south swells while the reef break delivers you very hollow waves. You can enjoy swift returns from the water thanks to the close proximity of the water breaks with the beach. The waves at Pottuvil Point are a little smaller than those at Arugam Bay but they still offer you enjoyably good peaks and the chance for barrels, especially during larger swells.
Pottuvil Point is the best to visit from the months of April to October. It is best for surfing throughout the months of April to September. You are able to rent equipment from surf shacks and you are also able to enjoy swimming and boating as a fun activity alongside surfing.
Arugam Bay is an unearthed treasure where you can experience and enjoy world-class surfing, breathtaking scenery, and a peaceful ambience at the East Coast of Sri Lanka. Arugam Bay holds something for every person, whether you're a surfer looking for the ideal wave or a tourist seeking for a unique destination, this coastal paradise promises a unique vacation. It becomes even more special with its sparkling beaches, diverse wildlife, and centuries-old structures like the Muhudu Maha Vihara. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, surf the waves, discover the lagoon's rich environment, and get lost in Arugam Bay's special allure.