Wondering Where To Surf On The West Coast?
Sri Lanka is undoubtedly a tropical paradise, where golden sandy beaches wrap around the whole island making it the ultimate beach getaway. But the island is also a world-renowned surfing destination, as you can surf year-round here – thanks to the monsoon seasons that bless the west and east in different months. The best season for surfing on the west/south-west coast is from October to April and here are the most popular places to surf!
Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous beaches, whether it’s for surfing, snorkelling, diving or just relaxing under the shade of a coconut tree. Hikka, as it’s better known, has quite a few surf breaks that are suitable for any level of surfing. There are different surf spots which are great for beginners, like Beach Break, and there are breaks like Benny’s that are more suitable for experienced surfers.
After your surfing adventures in Hikkaduwa, spend the rest of the day snorkelling through the thriving waters of Hikkaduwa National Park or visit the Tsunami Museum.
Mirissa & Weligama
Mirissa and its neighbouring town, Weligama are the two best surfing destinations on the south-west coast of Sri Lanka. The two beaches are excellent for beginners; with numerous surfing schools dotted all along the golden coast. If you’re a surfing novice, try Weligama Beach, there are long, gentle waves which are easy to tackle. For the more experienced wave riders, Mirissa Beach provides a long crescent stretch that has large rocky reefs on either side which generates some great waves.
When you’re in Mirissa, embark on a whale watching safari in the morning. As boats leave the dock by 6am, they make their way back to shore by 10am; leaving you with plenty of time to surf the rest of the day.
Matara
Situated at the southernmost tip of the island lies the bustling city of Matara. A well-kept secret is that Matara is an excellent surfing destination. Matara Beach has a great swell, but the best location for surfing, is towards the eastern bay, close to Meddawatta Beach. The bay is well protected, and you can enjoy a nice surf away from the crowds. Matara’s surf breaks however are more suitable for the more experienced surfers.
Wondering what else you can do in Matara? The bustling city is most famous for being home to the tallest lighthouse on the island – explore the Dondra Head Lighthouse after your surfing adventure.
Kalpitiya
Kalpitiya is situated on the north-west coast of the island and it is well known for its natural beauty as it consists of 14 islands nestled between the ocean and the Kalpitiya lagoon. If you’re looking for a different kind of surfing – head down to this small fishing town; famed as being the Number 1 kite surfing spot in the whole island. There are two seasons for kitesurfing in Kalpitiya, but the months between October – April are the most ideal. You can learn how to kitesurf from one of the many schools located in the area too.
While you’re here, explore Kalpitiya and its many attractions too.
