Arugam Bay: Sri Lanka’s Surf Paradise & East Coast Gem

There’s a moment when the east coast sun rises over Arugam Bay, and the horizon glows pink while surfers paddle out into rolling waves. Palms sway in the breeze, fishermen head to sea, and the town begins to hum with barefoot energy. This is more than a surf spot — it’s Sri Lanka’s east coast soul.

Quick Facts About Arugam Bay

• 📍 Location: Ampara District, Sri Lanka’s east coast
• 🌊 Best Known For: Surfing, lagoons, and laid-back lifestyle
• 🏄 Surf Season: May to October (monsoon season is on the west/south coasts)
• 🏖️ Vibe: Backpacker meets surf paradise
• 🐘 Nearby: Kumana National Park (elephants, leopards, birds)

Surfing in Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is consistently ranked among the top 10 surf spots in the world. The main break, known simply as “Main Point,” produces long right-handers perfect for both intermediate and advanced surfers.

But the magic goes beyond Main Point:

• Whiskey Point – a beginner-friendly break with sunrise views.
• Peanut Farm – jungle-backed waves with a wild, remote vibe.
• Elephant Rock – smaller waves, golden sand, and even wild elephants at times.

On our tours, we tailor surf days to your level — whether it’s your first paddle or your hundredth wave.

Beyond the Waves

Even if you don’t surf, Arugam Bay has plenty to offer. We make sure our guests experience more than just the beach:

• Lahugala National Park – elephants grazing at dusk.
• Crocodile Rock – sunrise hikes with panoramic ocean views.
• Pottuvil Lagoon – boat safaris where you might spot crocodiles, monkeys, and exotic birds.
• Kudumbigala Monastery – hidden Buddhist caves with sweeping east coast views.

Every day here can be as active or as relaxed as you want it to be.

Best & Worst of Arugam Bay

Best For:

• Surfers chasing world-class waves
• Travellers wanting a barefoot, relaxed atmosphere
• Nature lovers who want beaches and wildlife safaris

Challenges (we handle them for you):

• Hot, humid climate → we pace activities early mornings and evenings
• Remote location → all transfers arranged in advance
• Seasonal → best May–October (we recommend west/south coast outside this window)

Travel With Us: The BSL Tours Experience

When you travel with us, you don’t just “arrive” at Arugam Bay — we handle every detail:

• Private transfers across the island
• Surf lessons and board rentals arranged to suit your level
• Guided safaris to nearby Kumana National Park
• Insider spots like lagoon safaris and secret sunrise hikes
• Curated stays — from beachfront cabanas to boutique eco-lodges

You simply wake up and enjoy the ride. We take care of the rest.

What to Bring

We’ll send a full packing list before your trip, but here are essentials:

• 🩱 Swimwear and lightweight clothes
• 🥾 Sandals and one pair of sturdy shoes (for hikes)
• 🧢 Hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen
• 📸 Camera for epic surf shots and lagoon safaris
• 🐊 Binoculars if you love spotting wildlife

Getting There & Where to Stay

Arugam Bay is on the east coast, about 7–8 hours’ drive from Colombo. It feels remote — and that’s part of its charm. With BSL Tours, all transfers are seamless and comfortable.

Where We Stay

• Boutique Surf Cabanas — steps from the waves
• Eco-Lodges — immersed in jungle and nature
• Beachfront Villas — perfect for groups and families

We’ll match your stay to your style.

Beyond Arugam Bay

Our east coast tours often combine Arugam Bay with:

• Trincomalee – for whale watching and island snorkeling
• Passikudah – calm, turquoise waters ideal for relaxation
• Kumana National Park – wildlife safaris just south of Arugam

This way, you see the surf, sand, and safari side of Sri Lanka in one journey.

Insider Tips 🌿

• Surf lessons with patient local instructors included in our tours
• Sunrise at Elephant Rock is a must — we’ll get you there before the crowds
• East coast seafood BBQs on the beach are unforgettable (we organise private dinners)
• For culture lovers, we include side trips to ancient Batticaloa Fort

Why Arugam Bay Belongs on Your Journey

Arugam Bay isn’t just about surfing. It’s about the feeling of sand between your toes, waves echoing in your ears, and the easy rhythm of life on Sri Lanka’s east coast. With our guidance, you’ll experience the bay like a local — surf by day, sunsets by evening, and stories by night.

Ready to Ride the Waves?

Join our Scenic Wonders of Sri Lanka. From kovil visits to relaxing days at the beach and flavoursome culinary adventures, we’ll craft the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.