Welcome to Arugam Bay, a laid-back, sun-soaked slice of surf heaven on Sri Lankaâs east coast. Known for its world-class right-hand point breaks and a community that thrives on saltwater and stoke, Arugam Bay (or âA-Bayâ to regulars) is a dream destination for surfers of all levels.
Whether you’re chasing barrels, or just figuring out how to stand on the board without face-planting, this little bay has a wave with your name on it. Here’s your guide to the best surf spots in and around Arugam Bayâand a few local secrets thrown in.
This is where the magic happens. Main Point is the crown jewel of Arugam Bayâs surf scene, and for good reason. A consistent right-hand reef break, it peels beautifully along the rocks, delivering rides up to 500 meters long.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
Wave size: 2-6 ft, depending on the swell
Vibe: Crowded at times, but friendlyâespecially during sunrise sessions
Tip: Paddle out early to beat the crowds and watch the sun rise behind the point. Itâs pure magic.
Just around the bend from Main Point, Baby Point lives up to its name. Soft, slow-breaking waves over sand make this the perfect training ground for newbies.
Best for: Absolute beginners and kids
Wave size: 1-2 ft
Vibe: Chill, usually filled with surf schools and happy wipeouts
Tip: Rent a foam board from a beach shack and donât be afraid to fall. Everyone hereâs been there.
A scenic 20-minute tuk-tuk ride south of town gets you to Peanut Farm, a dreamy beach with two distinct breaks. The inside wave is soft and sandyâgreat for beginners. But paddle out a bit farther, and youâll hit a punchier right-hander for intermediate surfers.
Best for: Beginners to intermediates
Wave size: 2-5 ft
Vibe: Laid-back, post-surf coconuts and hammocks
Tip: Head here in the morning for glassy conditions, then chill in the shade with a king coconut.
If you’re lucky, you might spot an elephant on the way to this remote beach break. Elephant Rock serves up mellow right-handers that are super forgiving, with enough shape to keep things fun.
Best for: Beginners and longboarders
Wave size: 1-4 ft
Vibe: Wild and scenicânature lovers will dig it
Tip: After your surf, climb the rock for one of the best sunset views around.
Tucked away north of A-Bay, the Lighthouse break is a mission to reachâbut totally worth it. Long, rolling rights break along a sandy-bottomed bay that feels almost untouched by time.
Best for: Intermediate surfers seeking solitude
Wave size: 3-6 ft
Vibe: Quiet, raw, and off the grid
Tip: Bring snacks, water, and a sense of adventure. There are zero shops out here.
About 15 minutes north of Arugam Bay town, Whisky Point serves up fun, forgiving rightsâplus a party scene on the weekends. It’s a great wave for learners and cruisers alike.
Best for: Beginners to intermediates
Wave size: 2-4 ft
Vibe: Easygoing with a social buzz
Tip: Surf at golden hour, then stay for drinks and drums under the stars.
This spot is a local favorite for those chasing long rides. Pottuvil Point offers dreamy right-handers that can break for over 800 meters on a good swell. Itâs a sand-bottom point thatâs mellow yet rewarding.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
Wave size: 3-6 ft
Vibe: Quiet, authentic, and raw
Tip: Best after a solid swellâworth the 30-minute ride from A-Bay.
The surf season runs April to October, peaking in July and August. Expect warm water, consistent swell, and offshore windsâjust donât forget the reef booties if youâre hitting Main Point or Peanut Farm.
Tuk-tuks are your best bet. You can hire one for the day, and many drivers double as surf guides. If youâre planning to surf multiple spots, make a day trip out of itâsurf, swim, eat roti, repeat.
Arugam Bay isnât just a surf destinationâitâs a feeling. A place where time slows down, where dawn patrols turn into lazy hammock hangs, and where every surfer, beginner or pro, feels like they belong.
Pack light, surf hard, and let A-Bay work its magic.