Our Personal Surf Guide to Sri Lanka’s South Coast
Rule number one in surfing: never post surf spots online. It’s an unspoken rule we all follow to protect the spots we love. But here’s the thing: we’ve been living in Sri Lanka for years and we’re ready to share the insider tips and local knowledge that you won’t find anywhere else. We’re not just throwing out generic spots from other guides; this is real, personal experience from the ground. The surf scene here has changed over time; some places have gotten crowded, but there are still hidden gems and local favorites that feel like a world away. Whether you’re just starting or looking to level up, we’re giving you the best spots to surf and the tips you won’t get online.
Ready to explore? Download our exclusive Google Maps list with the best surf spots.
When’s the Best Time to Surf in the South Coast of Sri Lanka?
Here’s the deal: The prime surf season runs from November to April. During this time, the northeast monsoon ensures clean, offshore winds and perfect, smooth waves. From May to October? You’ll be dealing with the southwest monsoon and rain, which means more wind and choppy conditions. But don’t be discouraged! Even in the rainy season, sheltered bays still deliver good rides.
Insider Tip: Our go-to spot is Dewata Beach near Unawatuna, and the best part? Our retreat is located right in front of these amazing waves. During the slower season, we often have almost the entire beach to ourselves, making it the perfect time to surf in peace without the crowds. It’s one of the few spots that works year-round, making it ideal for surfers of all levels.
Discover the Beach Lodge and experience the best of Sri Lanka’s surf, away from the crowds and right by the waves.
The Best Surf Spots on Sri Lanka’s South Coast
Now, let's dive into the top 15 surf spots on the south coast of Sri Lanka. Whether you’re chasing quiet, uncrowded waves or looking for an iconic surf experience, these spots will give you what you’re after.
1. Hikkaduwa
- Type: Reef break
- Waves: 3–8 ft
- Level: Intermediate to Advanced: Reef
- Bottom: Reef
- Paddle Out: Moderate
- Crowds: Busy (especially during peak season)
- Risk: Moderate (due to reef and wave size)
Hikkaduwa is the classic spot, where Red Bull also hosts the "Red Bull Ride My Wave" professional surfing competition in Sri Lanka, featuring both local and international surfers competing for the title of "King of the Wave." If you’re looking for big, fast, right-hand reef breaks, this is where you’ll find them. It’s been a surfer’s haven since the ‘70s, and while it can get crowded during peak season, it still has that iconic surf vibe. The best conditions occur during medium to large southwest swells.
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2. Madiha
- Type: Reef break
- Waves: 2–6 ft
- Level: Intermediate
- Bottom: Reef
- Paddle Out: Easy to ModerateÇ
- Crowds: Moderate (less crowded compared to other spots)
- Risk: Low to Moderate (reef break)
Just a little further south, you’ll hit Madiha. This spot has a mellow vibe, with a beautiful right-hand reef break that’s perfect for intermediate surfers. If you’re up early enough, you might even score the place almost all to yourself. It’s ideal for a more peaceful session, especially when the southwest swell is rolling in.
3. Mirissa
- Type: Reef break
- Waves: 2–6 ft
- Level: Intermediate
- Bottom: Reef
- Paddle Out: Easy to Moderate
- Crowds: Busy (especially during peak season)
- Risk: Moderate (reef break)
Mirissa’s fame doesn’t just come from the waves. It’s the whole package. It’s one of the most iconic places, with turquoise blue water and beautiful palm trees in the backdrop. The right-hand reef break is consistent and ideal for intermediate surfers, but it can get crowded. If you’re okay with waking up before the sun to catch the best waves, you’ll be rewarded with a great session.
Be careful with the sea urchins in the reef area.
4. Weligama
- Type: Beach break
- Waves: 1–4 ft
- Level: Beginners to Intermediate
- Bottom: Sand
- Paddle Out: Easy
- Crowds: Busy (especially with surf schools)
- Risk: Low (soft beach breaks)
If you’re just starting out, Weligama is the spot for you. The gentle beach breaks are ideal for beginners, with small and consistent waves that make learning easy. It’s a popular area, especially during the season, but get out early and you can avoid the crowds. If you’re after something more chill, head to the edges of the bay, like in front of the Marriott Hotel, or even further along. However, it’s one of the busiest spots in Sri Lanka, as most surf schools are concentrated here. The bay is huge, so you’ll probably find your own spot. It’s super important to respect the rules here!
5. Midigama
- Type: Reef break
- Waves: 2–6 ft
- Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Bottom: Reef
- Paddle Out: Moderate
- Crowds: Moderate to Busy
- Risk: Moderate to High (due to fast reef breaks and hollow waves)
Midigama is a hidden gem for experienced surfers. This area is home to several incredible reef breaks: Lazy Left, Lazy Right, and Rams Right. If you’re looking for long, consistent waves, Lazy Left and Right are your go-to. But Rams Right? It’s got some fast, hollow tubes that’ll challenge even the best surfers. It can get crowded, but it’s still one of the most versatile spots on the coast.
6. Ahangama
- Type: Reef and point break
- Waves: 2–5 ft
- Level: Intermediate
- Bottom: Reef
- Paddle Out: Moderate
- Crowds: Moderate
- Risk: Moderate (reef)
In Ahangama, we have Devil’s Rock, where we often go for surf guiding. It’s a beautiful spot, known for its clear waters and the turtles that frequently visit the area.
Devil’s Rock is an intermediate to advanced reef break with waist to head-high swells and different peaks, including outer point breaks that help spread out the crowds; it's known for shallow reefs at low tide and is also a beautiful spot for snorkeling when the waves are calm.
Marshmallows used to be very empty, but now many surf schools take beginners there. While it's often considered a mellow wave, we believe it’s not the best spot for learning to surf, despite its name. The waves can be inconsistent, and it’s better suited for those with a bit more experience. Still, it can be fun, but be mindful of the surf schools crowding the area!
Other notable spots in Ahangama include Animals and Sticks, each offering a unique wave experience. Whether you're an intermediate surfer or just looking to enjoy a great day on the water, Ahangama has something for everyone.
7. Kabalana
- Type: Reef break (A-frame)
- Waves: 3–6 ft
- Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Bottom: Reef
- Paddle Out: Moderate
- Crowds: Moderate to Busy
- Risk: Moderate to High (fast, hollow waves)
Kabalana is a great spot for both advanced surfers and beginners. The Rock, an A-frame reef break, is perfect for advanced surfers, offering powerful left-hand barrel sections and a right-hand wave, although the right is shorter. The swell here ranges from waist to double head high, with the bottom consisting of both reef and sand. For those just starting out, the beach break in Kabalana is ideal for learning, with surf schools available to help beginners catch mellow waves in the whitewater closer to the shore. The Rock can get crowded with a competitive lineup, but it’s still one of the best spots for more technical waves on the south coast.
8. Dewata Beach (Our Home Surf Spot)
- Type: Beach break
- Waves: 1–3 ft
- Level: Beginners to Intermediate
- Bottom: Sand
- Paddle Out: Easy
- Crowds: Low (except during peak season)
- Risk: Low (mellow beach breaks)
Okay, here’s where we come in. Dewata Beach is our secret spot. We’ve surfed here for years and we can tell you it’s a winner. This sheltered bay has gentle beach breaks year-round, so it’s perfect for anyone from beginners to intermediates. It’s the spot where we go to escape the crowds, relax, and get better at surfing. And the locals? They’re super chill. This is where we really feel at home on the water.
9. Bentota
- Type: Beach break
- Waves: 1–3 ft
- Level: Beginners
- Bottom: Sand
- Paddle Out: Easy
- Crowds: Low to Moderate
- Risk: Low (gentle waves)
Bentota is a gateway to the south coast and a great spot for beginners. The waves are mellow and it’s perfect for those looking for calm waters to learn or practice their skills. The beach is beautiful, with less of the surf-town vibe but great for a more relaxed experience.
10. Rathgama
- Type: Reef and beach break
- Waves: 2–5 ft
- Level: Beginners to Intermediate
- Bottom: Reef and sand
- Paddle Out: Easy to Moderate
- Crowds: Low to Moderate
- Risk: Low to Moderate (reef and beach break mix)
A quieter alternative to Hikkaduwa, Rathgama is a wide bay lined with palm trees and small guesthouses. It’s a good spot for those looking to get away from the crowds. The reef break here is mellow, offering a left-hander that’s ideal for beginners and intermediates.
12. Talalla Beach
- Type: Beach break
- Waves: 2–5 ft
- Level: Beginners to Intermediate
- Bottom: Sand
- Paddle Out: Easy to Moderate
- Crowds: Low
- Risk: Low
Talalla Beach is a huge bay with one of the longest sandy stretches on the south coast. It’s quieter and undeveloped, offering soft waves perfect for beginners or longboarding. It’s also a great place for those who want to relax and enjoy the beauty of Sri Lanka away from the tourist crowds.
13. Hiriketiya
- Type: Left-hand reef break
- Waves: 2–6 ft
- Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Bottom: Reef
- Paddle Out: Moderate to Difficult
- Crowds: Busy (especially with the rise in popularity)
- Risk: Moderate (reef break, can be crowded)
Hiriketiya is a horseshoe-shaped bay with clear turquoise waters, and it’s been growing in popularity over the years. The left-hand reef break is consistent and offers long rides, making it great for intermediate and advanced surfers. While it can get crowded, there are a few other spots nearby, just a short scooter ride away, to help avoid the crowds. It can get a bit dangerous, though, as the bay is not very large and there are many surf schools, so things can get busy. But we love the vibes here, and you definitely need to experience it.
14. Koggala Beach
- Type: Reef break
- Waves: 2–5 ft
- Level: Intermediate
- Bottom: Reef
- Paddle Out: Moderate
- Crowds: Low to Moderate
- Risk: Moderate
Koggala Beach is a long, golden stretch that’s great for those who want a quieter spot to surf. It has some reef breaks and a mellow vibe, perfect for those looking for less crowded spots while still being close to other surf hubs like Ahangama and Kabalana.
15. Mawella Beach
- Type: Beach break
- Waves: 1–3 ft
- Level: Beginners
- Bottom: Sand
- Paddle Out: Easy
- Crowds: Low
- Risk: Low
Mawella is a quiet, secluded spot that’s great for those looking for an adventure. The surf here is generally small, but it can be fun when the swells are right. Most surfers stay here for the peace and relaxation, traveling to Hiriketiya or Talalla for better waves.
Why Surfing the South Coast of Sri Lanka is Like No Other
Sri Lanka’s south coast has something for everyone, whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro. From quiet, less-crowded spots like Dewata to the iconic breaks at Hikkaduwa and Mirissa, you can’t go wrong here. But it’s not just about the waves. It’s about the vibe, the community and the memories you make along the way.
Do you want to know why coming to Sri Lanka during the main season is the perfect getaway? Read our latest blog post to find out!
We’ve watched these spots evolve over the years, and we’ve seen how they’ve changed as more and more people discover them. It’s been amazing to see it grow, but we still love those hidden gems, the ones you get to know by living here, not just visiting.
