Arugam Bay is a small beach town on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka, famous for its beautiful beaches and world-class surfing. In May, the east coast offers the best surfing conditions, with dry weather, steady offshore winds, and consistent waves. Located about 320 km from Colombo, Arugam Bay takes around 7 to 9 hours to reach by car or bus. It’s well-known for long, right-hand point breaks, especially at Main Point, which is ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. Nearby surf spots include Whiskey Point, great for beginners and morning sessions; Peanut Farm, with waves for all levels; and Pottuvil Point, a peaceful spot with long, smooth rides. These breaks are all close to Pottuvil town, around 315 km from Colombo. While Sri Lanka’s southwest coast is best from November to April, May to August is the peak surf season on the east coast, attracting surfers from around the world with warm water, perfect waves, and a lively surf scene.
Weligama is another great option, especially for beginners, due to its consistent waves and sandy bottom.
Weligama is a popular beach town on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, known for its wide sandy bay and gentle waves, making it one of the best places in the country for beginner surfers. Located about 145 km from Colombo, it takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours to reach by car or train. The town has a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of surf schools, beachfront cafes, and budget to mid-range accommodation options. While the peak surf season in Weligama runs from November to April, you can still find small, manageable waves in May, especially in the early part of the month before the southwest monsoon sets in fully. It’s a great place for those looking to learn surfing in a safe and friendly environment, with nearby spots like Midigama, Mirissa, and Ahangama offering slightly more challenging waves for intermediate surfers.
