An article in the Sunday Times on the pioneers of surfing in Sri Lanka first gave me a glimpse  of what paradise has to offer. Sri Lanka’s surf scene is not that advanced and it was only a few months ago that I met with fellow ‘like minded’ people who enjoyed what I enjoyed – the beach and activities concerning the beach.

When the winds are not  enough for Kitesurfing, we head ‘Down South’ in search of a nice gentle wave for us beginners. Julian Bowling, Sri Lanka’s Olympian in the sport of Swimming spoke of a gentle wave where Parrot Fish swam alongside the surf boards in crystal clear water. I was hooked and we headed to Medigama the following week. My cousin Keshini Hapugoda, a fellow enthusiast followed suit the week after.

Hour upon hour of surfing with Julian advancing  and giving pointers to us beginners, a nice hearty ‘String Hopper Feed’ and loads of ‘Thambili’ for breakfast gave us all the energy to go on till Sunset. That’s right, sunset (we considered stopping for lunch a waste of time!) It was truly an amazing experience surfing and marveling at what beauty this island, an island we call paradise has to offer.

Next weekend, wind or swell, we would hit a beach North or South or Sri Lanka. The adventures continue.

Dilsiri Welikala

The season start was a bit slow but now the beautiful bay on the East Coast it is the hottest destination in the country. Guest houses are full to capacity, the local economy is picking up again and everyone, locals and tourists are having a great time.

There is something for everyone: great surf and beautiful weather, amazing food as only Arugam Bay can offer, happening beach parties and calming lounges to soothe your spirit. Everyone we spoke to said they’ll return next season.

If you want to catch Arugam Bay this season there is still a lot of time. Get in touch with us and we will do our best to get you there.

Goofyfoot Holidays

Arugam Bay was awarded the Highly Commended Best Destination award at the World Travel Market Responsible Tourism Awards Ceremony at Excel in Docklands, London on 14th November 14, 2007. Out of the thousands of nominations received, Costa Rica and New Forest were the other two nominees.

Arugam Bay is classed among the top ten surfing destinations in the world. The village itself is a delightful experience. There are no big hotels. The community has developed tourism by dint of their own hard work and imagination.

Three star establishments rub shoulders with low-key stilt cabins and coconut palm leaf cabanas, and tourists share the beach with local fishermen.

The wild and rugged scenery, elephants meandering at the edge of the village, abundant birdlife, and mysterious archaeological sites have made this a long-time favourite destination for travellers.

The three ethnic groups – Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims, work and live in harmony. The population of 3,000 families is made up mostly of small family managed hotels/guest houses and restaurants.