Sri Lanka Surf Magic: My top 10 must-do's
August 29, 2025Planning a surf trip to Sri Lanka? When I came here, I discovered so much more than just perfect waves. From rooftop sunsets and beachside cafés to safaris and sea turtles, the island gave me experiences I’ll never forget. Here are my 10 must-dos for any surfer visiting Sri Lanka, both in and out of the water.
Sri Lanka has a way of getting under your skin in the best possible way. The surf is warm and consistent, the people are kind, and life runs at just the right pace. Whether you’re here to catch your first green wave or just escape the everyday, this island delivers.
Hi, I’m Britt, and in early 2023, I left winter behind and flew to Sri Lanka. I did not really know what to expect, but I craved waves, sunshine, and that tropical, barefoot feeling. I’d heard you could surf in warm water all year round, and that was all I needed. My plan? Three months on the south coast, chasing freedom and good vibes.
Sri Lanka gave me all that and so much more. I surfed every day, met people who turned into close friends, explored palm-lined beaches and jungle-covered hills, danced under the stars, and fell completely in love with the island’s energy. This blog post is a collection of the 10 things that made my trip unforgettable and that might just make yours, too.
1. Explore the beaches around Ahangama
Ahangama is the kind of place that pulls you in without trying too hard. What I liked about it was the stretch of coastline with mellow surf spots, boutique stays, local eateries, and quiet corners where the turquoise water sparkles in the sun. Whether you're looking to paddle out or just wander along the shoreline, this is where laid-back surf energy meets tropical charm.
Spend a few hours beach-hopping on foot, rent a scooter, or grab a TukTuk and head further along the coast to spots like Kabalana, Midigama, or Weligama. Each one has its own rhythm:
Kabalana is spacious and golden, with a good mix of surf, cafés, and beach hangs. It’s lively without feeling crowded and great for a full beach day.
Midigama is quieter and more local, with reefy coastlines, chilled guesthouses, and a raw, simple charm that feels super grounded.
Weligama is busy and buzzing. Ideal for beginners, with surf schools, beach bars, and markets all within walking distance. A little chaotic, but full of life. Between the surf checks, you’ll pass board shacks, juice stalls, and roadside spots serving coconuts and spicy rice and curry.
2. Chill, sip, repeat: Coffee on the beach at Cactus Café
I discovered Cactus Café during a beach walk with the girls from the surf camp. We were just looking for a good coffee – and ended up finding our favourite spot. From that day on, we came back daily.
It’s a locally run, open-air café right on the sand in Ahangama, with a relaxed vibe, good music, and unbeatable ocean views. My go-to? The fluffy pancakes with tropical fruit, an absolute heaven after a morning surf. Whether you're hanging in a hammock, sunbathing out front, or browsing the little beach shop, Cactus is the ultimate post-surf hangout.
3. Sunset dreams & rooftop drinks at Lighthouse Bar
We first heard about Lighthouse Bar from the Lapoint social hosts, and after a full day of surfing, we jumped into tuk-tuks and headed there with the whole crew. None of us expected what was waiting: golden skies, ocean views, laid-back beats, and that kind of atmosphere that makes you stop, breathe, and just take it all in.
Perched above the coastline in Ahangama, Lighthouse Bar is stylish without trying too hard. The drinks are cold, the crowd is a mix of surfers and travelers, and the sunset? Unreal. Everyone fell quiet for a moment when the sky lit up, then the first round arrived, and the stories started flowing.
Tip: Head there early to grab a front-row seat facing the sea - especially on live music nights. The tacos are a win, but it’s the vibe that really gets you. One of those places where campmates turn into friends, and one sunset drink turns into three.
4. Trade waves for wildlife on a safari in Udawalawe
Sure, Sri Lanka is all about surfing but a trip inland opens up a whole new world. Udawalawe Nationalpark is the perfect spot for a little surf break, where the waves are replaced by wild elephants, water buffalos, and endless jungle landscapes.
We went for a sunrise safari, and honestly? It was one of the most magical moments of the whole trip. As the jeeps rolled into the park, everything was bathed in soft orange light. The animals were just waking up, the jungle was quiet, and so were we. No one spoke much and we were all just soaking it in.
The journey there is part of the adventure: passing rice fields, tiny villages, and waving kids in school uniforms gives you a glimpse of inland Sri Lanka that feels worlds away from the coast. Pack light, bring a camera, and don’t forget mosquito spray. If you're lucky, you might also spot crocodiles or rare birds along the way. It’s wild in the best way and totally worth trading your surfboard for a seat in a jeep for a day.
5. Post-surf bliss: massage & coffee in Unawatuna
After a few days of paddling hard and dancing even harder, your body might thank you for a little self-care. Head to Unawatuna, a relaxed beach town where you can find some of the best massages and coziest cafés around.
We went with a group from the surf camp to a little garden spa surrounded by banana trees in Unawatuna. I booked a deep-tissue massage, and it was exactly what my sore shoulders needed. Afterwards, we grabbed a fresh coconut and something sweet from a nearby café. That combo? Pure post-surf bliss.
If you’re up for more than just a massage and a coffee, Unawatuna also offers snorkeling, beachside yoga sessions, and sweet little boutiques to wander through. It’s a great option for a chill day when you need a break from the surf. Just take it slow and let this cozy little town work its charm on you.
6. Ocean magic: release baby turtles into the sea
Releasing a baby turtle into the ocean was honestly one of the cutest and most memorable things I did in Sri Lanka. A few of us from the camp took a tuk-tuk to a turtle sanctuary near Unawatuna, where we got to learn more about how they protect the eggs and support local conservation. It was actually super interesting to understand how much work goes into giving these little guys a chance.
At sunset, we each got to release a hatchling. Standing barefoot in the sand, watching this tiny turtle make its way to the water, while everyone quietly cheered. It was such a simple moment, but one I won’t forget.
7. Surf green waves with turtles at Sticks
Sticks was one of my absolute favourite surf spots in Sri Lanka. We went there a lot with the Lapoint crew, and it always ended up being a good session.
It was the first reef break I’d ever surfed, and at first I was a bit nervous, but the coaches were super supportive and gave us the confidence to go for it. Once I got my first green waves there, I was hooked. The rides were long and clean, and the vibe in the water was super relaxed.
And then there was the turtle always in the same spot, just casually cruising through the lineup. Everyone knew her. It became one of those little things you looked forward to, without making a big deal out of it. Just part of the magic.
8. Dance your heart out at night
If you’re wondering whether there’s nightlife in Sri Lanka – oh yes, there is. Along the south coast, there’s always something going on. From laid-back sunset drinks to wild beach parties, you’ll find a rotating lineup of bars that host events almost every night of the week.
Wednesdays usually mean Surfcamp Night at The Doctor’s House in Madiha – live music, wood-fired pizza, and barefoot dancing under the stars. On Thursdays, Lamana in Midigama turns into the place to be, with DJs, cocktails, and a skate bowl right in the middle of the action. Fridays and Saturdays shift between different spots – and somehow, you always end up where the crowd goes.
Some nights start slow with a beer after surf, and suddenly it’s 2 am and you’re dancing with people you just met that morning in the water. The vibe? Messy, fun, and full of good energy. Just follow the music, and the rest sorts itself out.
9. Take the train to Hiriketiya’s hidden surf heaven
The iconic coastal train ride through southern Sri Lanka is more than just transport - it’s an experience. Riding through palm forests, catching glimpses of waves, and sharing the journey with friendly locals gives you a whole new view of the island.
Hiriketiya, your final stop, is a picture-perfect bay where time slows down. Think surf sessions, smoothie bowls, and slow mornings. If you decide to spend the night (which you totally should), look out for hidden stays tucked into the jungle behind the beach. Outdoor showers, breezy verandas, and lazy mornings with nothing but the sound of waves.
Hiriketiya is the kind of place you promise yourself you’ll visit “just for a night” and end up staying a week.
10. Sip a fresh coconut after your surf session in Midigama
Some rituals are just better in the tropics, like sipping a fresh king coconut right after your session in Midigama. You’ll find coconut vendors scattered along the beach, machete in hand, ready to open one up for you within seconds.
Nothing tastes better than cold coconut water when your hair’s still dripping and your arms are happily sore from the paddle out. It's a small moment, but one you’ll miss the second you leave.
It’s easy to fill your days in Sri Lanka with surf sessions, road trips, and rooftop drinks, and honestly, I did. But the moments that really stuck with me were the in-between ones. Riding in a tuk-tuk after surfing, boards strapped on top, salty skin, wet hair, music playing in the background. Stopping for a coconut on the way home. Eating simple food that tasted like heaven after a long day in the water. Dancing barefoot under the stars with people I’d only just met, but somehow felt totally connected to.
What I loved most was the lightness and how free everything felt. There was no rush, no pressure, just sun, salt, and this feeling that life can actually be simple and good. The people I met were open, happy, and fully in the moment. The locals were warm and welcoming. The food was fresh and full of flavour. The nature and wildlife are just breathtaking. And every day, I woke up excited - not because something big was planned, but just because I was there.
Since I came back, I haven’t stopped thinking about it. I keep checking flights, dreaming about tuk-tuks, coconuts, and that feeling of coming out of the ocean, totally content. I know I’ll be back because Sri Lanka is a place that has stayed with me.
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Britt Marie Stachowiak
About the author: Hey hey, I’m Britt – a restless daydreamer with a heart that beats a little faster by the ocean. I call Cologne home, but part of me is always drifting – toward salty air, soft sand and the sound of waves in the distance.
I work in marketing, have a soft spot for writing, and often catch myself planning the next escape while the coffee’s still warm. Somehow, I always end up staying a little longer in the places I fall in love with – like Fuerteventura or Sri Lanka. Life just feels better with salt on my skin and a surfboard nearby.
Life goal? To be a little sunshine wherever I go.
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