Fishing boats
Blue boats pulled up on the sand.
Dennis Sylvester Hurd — CC0 · Kondephy — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Steffen Schmitz (more photos) — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Nandun Narayana — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Luboš Holič — CC BY-SA 3.0
Arugam Bay Beach is a long arc of sand on the Indian Ocean, in the dry zone of Sri Lanka's southeast coast. It is the country's best-known surfing destination, combining an old fishing settlement with simple guesthouses and cafes among the palms. The bay lies about 117 km south of Batticaloa and 4 km south of Pottuvil, the market town and transport centre for the area. Fishing traditionally dominated the local economy, and tourism has grown rapidly thanks to quality surf breaks nearby. The bay is also the gateway and only road access to Yala East, known as Kumana. You find pale sand, blue fishing boats pulled up on the shore and waves breaking at the point. Behind the village a small lagoon spreads at the mouth of the Heda Oya, with forest mirrored in it in the morning. Quieter beaches such as Whiskey Point lie nearby, and elephants sometimes travel through here between the Lahugala and Kumana parks, so take care on the roads at night. The bay lies about 218.3 km from Colombo and 59 km from Gal Oya National Park in a straight line. The best season for surf and weather generally runs from May to September, while winter is wetter and calmer. Currents can be strong, so ask locals before swimming. Dress modestly away from the beach out of respect for residents.
Blue boats pulled up on the sand.
Forest mirrored in the morning water.
A quieter beach close to the bay.
Arugam Bay, near Pottuvil, Sri Lanka
Generally May to September, for the surf and good weather.
Yes at some nearby spots, so ask a local school which one suits your level.