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Arugam Bay, the surfers’ paradise of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its stellar waves and serene beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting out, the bay offers a variety of spots that cater to every skill level. Here’s a guide to the top 7 surf spots around Arugam Bay, complete with details on how to reach them, the distance from the bay, and what they offer for different levels of surfers.
1. Main Point
Distance from Arugam Bay: 0 km
How to Reach: A short walk from the bay
Surfer Level: Intermediate to Advanced Main Point is the crown jewel of Arugam Bay, offering challenging waves for those who dare. With its powerful right-handers, it’s a spot where experienced surfers can truly shine.
2. Whiskey Point
Whiskey Point is known for its relaxed atmosphere and gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for for beginners to practice their skills. The beach is lined with coconut palms, providing shade and a picturesque backdrop for surfing.
Distance from Arugam Bay: 12 km.
How to Reach: Tuk-tuk ride north of the bay.
Suitable Surfer Level: Beginners to Intermediate Whiskey Point is perfect for surfers looking to improve their skills. The waves here are forgiving, making it an ideal learning environment.
3. Pottuvil Point
Pottuvil Point is a popular surf spot known for its consistent waves and sandy bottom. The beach here is wide and spacious, providing plenty of room for surfers to spread out and catch waves.
Distance from Arugam Bay: 4 km
How to Reach: Tuk-tuk or a short scooter ride
Suitable Surfer Level: Intermediate Pottuvil Point offers long, mellow rides and is less crowded, providing a peaceful surfing experience.
4. Elephant Rock
Elephant Rock gets its name from the large rock formation that resembles an elephant. The waves here break both left and right, offering a variety of rides for intermediate surfers.
Distance from Arugam Bay: 4 km
How to Reach: Tuk-tuk followed by a hike
Suitable Surfer Level: Beginners to Intermediate Elephant Rock is a secluded spot known for its scenic beauty and gentle waves, suitable for those looking to surf in tranquility.
5. Peanut Farm
Peanut Farm is named after the peanut-shaped rock formation that sits just offshore. The waves here are more consistent and powerful than Whiskey Point, attracting intermediate to advanced surfers looking for a challenge.
Distance from Arugam Bay: 8 km
How to Reach: Tuk-tuk or scooter
Suitable Surfer Level: All levels Peanut Farm has waves for everyone, from easy rollers for beginners to more challenging sections for advanced surfers.
6. Okanda
Elephant Rock gets its name from the large rock formation that resembles an elephant. The waves here break both left and right, offering a variety of rides for intermediate surfers.
Distance from Arugam Bay: 22 km
How to Reach: Tuk-tuk or private vehicle
Suitable Surfer Level: Advanced Okanda is for the adventurous soul, offering powerful waves and an escape from the crowds.
7. Baby Point
Pottuvil Point is a popular surf spot known for its consistent waves and sandy bottom. The beach here is wide and spacious, providing plenty of room for surfers to spread out and catch waves.
Distance from Arugam Bay: 1 km
How to Reach: Walking distance
Suitable Surfer Level: Beginners Baby Point is where the little ones and beginners can get their first taste of surfing with small, manageable waves.
| Surf Spot | Description | Distance from Arugam Bay | Best Time to Surf |
| Whiskey Point | Known for gentle waves, ideal for beginners. Lined with coconut palms. | Approximately 6 km | Early morning or late afternoon |
| Peanut Farm | Consistent and powerful waves, suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. Named after peanut-shaped rock. | Approximately 4 km | Mid to late morning |
| Elephant Rock | Waves break left and right, suitable for intermediate surfers. Located near a rock formation resembling an elephant. | Approximately 8 km | Early morning or late afternoon |
| Okanda | Powerful and fast waves, suitable for advanced surfers. Located within a national park. | Approximately 15 km | Dry season (May to October) |
| Crocodile Rock | Challenging waves with steep drops, suitable for experienced surfers. Named after a crocodile-shaped rock. | Approximately 10 km | Early morning or late afternoon |
| Pottuvil Point | Consistent waves with sandy bottom, suitable for intermediate surfers. Spacious beach area. | Approximately 3 km | Mid to late morning |
| Baby Point | Offers gentle waves and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for beginners. Located within Arugam Bay itself. | Within Arugam Bay | Early morning or late afternoon |
| Panama | Remote surf spot with powerful, hollow waves. Accessible via a bumpy dirt road. | Approximately 10 km | Dry season (May to October) |
