With just shy of 1000 miles of coastline, Sri Lanka is a tropical island nation that sits just below India and dishes up super rippable waves most days of the year.
Below, you’ll find a selection of the best surf camps in Sri Lanka. Camps that range from the low-key and budget-friendly to the ultra-plush and contemporary where no expense has been spared.
So sit back, get comfortable and come and discover where you’ll be staying and surfing when in Sri Lanka.
A Summary of the Waves and Conditions in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a year-round dream surf destination because of the seasonal weather patterns which mean if one coast is blown out and onshore, the other coast is calm and offshore, meaning you can always find waves.
In the south, you’ll find gems between November and May. On the east coast between April to October.
At this time of year, the waves generally have a bigger period coming from further away storm systems, meaning the waves are longer with more power which is the perfect scenario for any surfer.
The most famous areas are Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa in the southwest, Weligama in the south and Arugam Bay in the east. For the best day-to-day information on where the waves are best for any given day, contact the team at Surf South Sri Lanka.
1. Ticket to Ride Surf House – Ahangama
Best for Advanced Coaching
Located in the quiet town of Ahangama on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Ticket to Ride is a surf house that puts your comfort first. This luxurious camp can be found in the jungle just 50 meters away from one of the most consistent breaks of the southwest stretch.
Although Ticket to Ride offers accommodation packages, their program is built around high-quality surf coaching. Whether you’re a total beginner or a certified shredder, Ticket to Ride is equipped with the tools and know-how to help you progress.
Accommodation/ Services
As we hinted at, you won’t be squished into a 10-person dorm room at Ticket to Ride, because the entire camp has been designed with luxury in mind. The house features nine spacious bedrooms that come as triple, double, and twin rooms. Every room in the house is treated to its own aircon and private ensuite, and the triple dorm rooms are strictly same-sex to skip on the awkwardness.
There’s also a rooftop bar that serves drinks from 5 pm to in-house guests every night. This picture-perfect setting is the ideal spot to talk shop on the day’s surfing escapades while soaking in the sights of the setting sun. Yoga is a big part of Ticket to Ride’s experience, and their 5-day program has been built to support and enhance surfing ability.
Surfing/ Packages
To get the most out of your stay at Ticket to Ride they recommend booking onto their full week-long package. The package runs from Saturday to Saturday and includes seven nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, and five traditional Sri Lankan dinners cooked by a team of in-house chefs.
The week is centered around a premium 5-day surf package that starts on Sunday and finishes Friday, with Wednesday off to rest and recoup. The package is truly at the forefront of what surf camps are currently offering, with guided surf lessons/ sessions, daily surf theory, video coaching/ analysis, as well as 5 surf-specific yoga classes.
The camp is directly opposite Marshmallows which is a super consistent and fun beach break. If the conditions or your level or surfing calls for a drive, then Ticket to Ride will pile everyone into tuk-tuks and go scouting around the southwest coast in search of the best waves, they’re good like that. Sure, this isn’t the cheapest surf camp in Sri Lanka, but if you’re looking for a little luxury and a whole lot of professionalism, Ticket to Ride is one of the best.
Nearby Surf Breaks:
- Marshmallows
- Sticks
- Kabalana
- Rajith
- Rams right
- The rock
- Lazy lefts
- Midigama left
- Midigama right
- Mirissa
- Plantations
2. La Point – Near Ahangama
Best for Luxury
Dotted across some of the world’s most desirable surfing destinations, La Point has created a world-renowned surf camp brand, and it is a very good thing. They’ve nailed the formula that blends modern conveniences with an energetic youthfulness that is hard to come by.
La Point is another high-quality surf camp that can be found in Ahangama, just a couple of minutes down the road from Ticket to Ride. There’s a reason why two of the best surf camps in all of Sri Lanka are within a stone’s throw of each other, and it is a testament to just how special this southwest stretch of Sri Lanka truly is.
Accommodation/ Services
The surf camp at La Point is a state-of-the-art facility with a mix of 4-6 person dorms and double rooms. Each room is, unsurprisingly, designed in a clean and contemporary style that makes them feel very liveable.
La Point strives to make their guests happy at all times, sleeping or otherwise, so once you step outside of your A/C bedroom, you will have plenty to do here. There’s a volleyball court where some serious battles go down each afternoon, as well as a deck-chair-lined pool to do some hard chilling around.
If you’d prefer to hang out in the cool confines of the house, there’s also an indoor chill-out spot that is filled with comfy, low-set sofas that make guests feel instantly comfortable.
Surfing/ Packages
La Point has endeavored to keep their surf and stay package concise to make your life nice and easy. They have an identical package across all three surfing levels, which means all you have to do is select the one that’s suited to your ability, and let LaPoint take care of the rest.
Find your people in either the beginner, intermediate, or advanced level packages, which each include 5 x 2 hours of surf lessons, or surf guiding for the advanced crew.
On top of food and a room, each package has video analysis and surf theory built into the program. La Point also avidly encourages you to try out a bunch of their surfboards during your stay, so don’t go worrying about being stuck on the 8ft foamie all week.
If you like what LaPoint is about but would rather just surf on your own terms, then there’s also the option to book onto a stay-only package that includes breakfast and dinner so that you will still feel like part of the gang.
Nearby Surf Breaks:
- Marshmallows
- Sticks
- Weligama
- Rajith
- Rams right
- The rock
- Lazy lefts
- Midigama left
- Midigama right
- Mirissa
- Plantations
3. Solid Surf House – Weligama Bay
Best for a budget
Solid Surf Camp is a well-known name in the surf camp world, with camps in Morocco and Bali, Solid Surf House has now recently launched a Sri Lanka surf camp too in Weligama Bay.
Weligama is the perfect beach for a beginner, with gentle waves and soft sandy bottom, it offers all you need to learn.
If you’re on a tighter budget but still want to get an all-inclusive and extensive surf camp experience with quality coaching then this is a great place to be.
Their 7 day, all-inclusive packages have everything you need to guarantee super fun waves and meet great like-minded people.
- 7 nights accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- 5 x dinners
- Daily surf lessons/surf guiding
- Daily afternoon free surf
- Morning and evening yoga sessions
- Weekly theory lessons
- Weekly video analysis
The camp itself is brand new, with both dorm and private rooms, all with air conditioning. They have a beautiful swimming pool, ideal for cooling off after being melted by the mid-day Sri Lankan heat.
Inspired by their Bali camps it has a high end, boho style finish (much like Dreamsea) but at a far more affordable price.
4. Elsewhere Surf Camp – between Weligama and Midigama
Best for solo travellers
If you’re a solo traveller keen to score some salty Sri Lankan barrels and meet some new like-minded friends then Elsewhere Surf Camp is the place for you. The camp offers everything you’d expect from a surf camp with a very affordable price tag.
They have a range of other activities aside from surfing for those who want a more rounded experience of Sri Lanka. A few examples are Hiking, Yoga, paddle boarding, snorkelling excursions, boat trips, buggy rides and more!
Here’s what to expect from the standard surf package:
- 7 nights accommodation
- 5 x surf lessons/guiding
- Board & equipment rental
- 1 x yoga session
- 1 to 2 video analysis sessions
- Free photos
Recently they’ve also added a second villa to their accommodation options. If you’re looking for a bit more peace and quiet you can book this spot whilst maintaining the fun vibes from the surf camp, it’s the best of both worlds!
You’re also right next to the Yoga classes which is ideal if you enjoy some sunrise or sunset yoga.
5. Kima Surf – Weligama
Best for the independent surfer
With a string of successful surf camps in and around the Indonesian island of Bali, it’s safe to say that Kima Surf knows a thing or two about how this surf camp thing works. Their recently-opened surf camp down on the southwest coast at Weligama is a large and vibrant camp that is an exciting and happening place to stay.
Weligama is a stunning part of the south coast that is known for its beginner and intermediate-friendly beach breaks that are nestled and protected within the confines of the bay. If you’re looking for a unique and inspiring camp that is on the pulse with what guests expect in the modern-day, high-flying industry of surf camps, Kima is your place.
Accommodation/ Services
One of the coolest things about Kima is that it is run out of a newly renovated, 150-year old colonial-style complex that is a wonder to walk through, let alone stay in. And while the building is impressive in its stature and age, the inside has been finished in a light and contemporary manner that feels effortlessly warm and always inviting.
Kima has an impressive range of room types, from cozy twin and double rooms to larger dorm-style rooms that astonishingly have their own private pools. There’s also a larger communal pool inside the grounds where guests are welcome to lounge after a solid day of waves.
Surfing/ Packages
A stay at Kima is designed to be a social one, with special events held each week that help guests get to know each other. Expect daily yoga classes, surf theory, surf guiding, tuk-tuk shuttles, video analysis, daily breakfast, free-flow coffee and tea, and five gourmet dinners in each package too.
Basically, dream up anything that you may want, need, or desire during your stay in Sri Lanka, and Kima has already incorporated it into their weekly program. On the last night of the week (Friday), there’s a killer barbeque put on by the camp where guests are invited to feast, drink, and socialize, seeing out their week of waves, the Kima way.
Nearby Surf Spots:
- Weligama
- Rams right
- The rock
- Lazy lefts
- Midigama left
- Midigama right
- Mirissa
- Plantations
6. Luckys Surf Camp – Weligama
Best for the intimate low key vibe
If you are the kind of person that prefers a smaller group vibe, a little more intimacy and low key, then Lucks Surf Camp may be the place for you.
With its cosy layout nestles 50 meters from the beautiful sandy shores of Weligama Beach, this is your little haven if you are learning to surf for the first time, or an experienced surfer looking for pro tips and expert guiding.
Setup by Sri Lanka’s top-ranked surfer, Lucky. This small surf camp caters up to a maximum of 12 surfers.
Luckys team of knowledgeable and experienced surf instructors will get you standing in no time, the more experienced surfers will have the pleasure of having some invaluable tips and guides by Sri Lanka’s best surfer.
A weeks surf camp package here includes;
- 7 x Nights accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- 1 x Dinner
- Surf Theory sessions
- 6 x Surf lessons
- Photo & video analysis
- All surf transport
7. Dreamsea – Ahangama
Best for location
This is the only surf camp in Sri Lanka’s surfing hotspot with the ultimate primetime beachfront location.
With the relaxing sound of waves soothing you into a peaceful sleep, and waking you with gentle purpose as you watch the sunrise and start your day with style.
Inspired by their luxury Indo surf camps, the Bali boho style design sets the vibe for Dreamsea surf camp, sleek, upmarket, clean and damn right fancy.
This surf camp will have all your needs met and more.
You can choose from a private double room, a private twin or a shared twin if you’re a solo surfer.
Dreamsea offers a variety of different packages, including Surfers Paradise for the wave crazed surfers, the clues in the name…
Retreat Yourself, for the hardcore yogi’s wanting a fully immersive yoga experience, and Happy Couple, for couples who get to choose either packages or a mix of the two.
Their surfer’s package includes;
- 7 nights accommodation
- 7 breakfasts
- 5 dinners
- Transport to/from the surf
- All surfboard & equipment hire
- 12 hours of lessons/coaching
- 3 hours of yoga
With a beachfront pool overlooking the waves, they also have an in-house restaurant offering some of the best local cuisines and western-style food.
The great thing about Dreamsea is that you have everything you need at your fingertips. Making it a truly relaxing and glamorous surf camp experience for those looking to treat themselves.
8. Safa Surf Camp – Arugam Bay
Best for the best wave
Located on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast and within striking distance of its most iconic wave, Safa is a surf camp with a difference. The camp is built up of beachside bungalows nestled between plenty of shade-creating palms making it feel effortlessly laid-back.
Safa is also a locally owned and operated camp that leans on their local knowledge to make your stay both in the water and on land enjoyable. Because it’s tucked away up at the northern end of Arugam Bay, there’s also a distinct lack of noise and light pollution at SAFA, which you will notice straight away, and revel in all week.
Accommodation/ Services
Kauri Beach House is where SAFA calls home, and boy oh boy, what a home it is. There are seven beach bungalows to choose from, each with its own aircon, western toilet, hot shower, double bed, netting, and fan, as well as a private hammock out front to swing your worries away.
At SAFA it’s all about keeping the vibe as chill as possible, which is evidenced by their lack of ego, and the abundance of chill zones around camp.
The camp kitchen is yours to use freely, however, there’s also an in-house chef that will be serving you epic Sri Lankan meals breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The open-air cabana is where you’ll find daily yoga practices that employ meditation to relax you into SAFA’s zen-energy.
SAFA has also taken the stress out of getting there, with a private taxi pick-up from Colombo airport that will get you to camp in aircon and style.
Surfing/ Packages
SAFA knows that not every guest looking to stay with them is on the same itinerary, which is why they’ve created three unique surf packages. Wellness Surf is their premium package that incorporates everything that SAFA is about into the one all-inclusive bundle.
10 x 1.5-hour surf coaching sessions, surf photography, video analysis, theory classes, surf transport, yoga classes, daily breakfast, airport pick-up, we could go on and on, but you catch the drift – this is a stacked package.
The Surf Traveler package has been built around surfers who are trying to stretch their money the furthest and don’t mind sharing a dorm room. You still get all the aforementioned surf-related trimmings, which, at the end of the day, is all salt-of-the-earth surfers really care about. The Flexi Surfer package is for anyone who’s on a strict time frame and can only spare 4 – 5 nights in paradise, but still wants to live it up in style.
Nearby Surf Spots:
- Main Point Arugam Bay
- Baby Point
- Whisky Point
- Lighthouse Point
- Pottuvil Point
- Elephant Rock
- Peanut Farm
- Panama Point
- Oknada Point
9. Surf Camp Arugam Bay – Arugam Bay
Best for the local experience
In complete contrast to Kima’s high-flying and contemporary feel, Arugam Bay Surf Camp is a low-key place that caters to the savvy surf traveler. You won’t find any state-of-the-art yoga shalas and infinity pools at Arugam, but what you will find is good and humble local people providing a great service to all levels of surfers.
It’s also conveniently located in the center of Arugam Bay town, just a short stroll from the world-famous right hand point break that it is known for.
Accommodation/ Services
This cozy camp comprises just seven rooms, which can each be made up as double, twin, or single rooms as required. Three of the rooms have aircon, while the other four are ceiling fan only. To keep things simple, and costs low, Arugam Bay doesn’t offer meals as part of their stay. They do, however, run a little cafe on site that is known for producing the best smoothie bowls in town.
Because of its central location, you barely have to walk out of camp to be presented with a string of cheap and authentic Sri Lankan restaurants that serve filling meals at all times of the day. Again to keep their package costs as low as possible, Arugam Bay has chosen to offer surf photography and videography as a separate package to the guests who want it.
Surfing/ Packages
Whether you’re looking to just surf, or take a more balanced approach to your holiday with the inclusion of yoga, Arugam Bay Surf Camp is ready for you. You can book onto their Just Surf package which has ample surf lessons on their five, seven, or ten night stays.
They also have different prices for aircon and non-aircon rooms, which is just another way Arugam Bay caters to frugal surfers (for which there are many). Depending on the duration of your stay, your overworked back and shoulder muscles will get a seeing to with an on-the-house massage or two.
The yoga/ surf package splits your time, offering a more relaxed week for the body and mind. But don’t worry, the massages are still very much included. All in all, Arugam Bay Surf Camp is the kind of place that suits surfers who like to be in the center of the action, and surf the best waves, but don’t mind living simply and fending for themselves where food is concerned.
Nearby Surf Spots:
- Main Point Arugam Bay
- Baby Point
- Whisky Point
- Lighthouse Point
- Pottuvil Point
- Elephant Rock
- Peanut Farm
- Panama Point
- Oknada Point
Buyers Guide
Location
Before committing to a surf camp it’s important to think about where you’d like to go in the country first. Sri Lanka has a few different surf areas. All offering slightly different experiences.
Surfing level
Different camps offer different packages. Some camps are more suited to the beginner surfer, with extensive beginner classes.
Whereas some camps are tailored more to the intermediate/advanced surfer looking for more of a coaching/ video analysis perspective with some guided tours of various waves.
Duration of Stay
Although most camps offer a duration of between 2 days to 9 days, it’s important to check exactly how long each surf camp’s packages are before booking. Some camps have a longer duration option whereas others don’t.
Extra Activities
Depending on the camp you go to, a variety of activities may or may not be available. Some camps offer a huge range of in and out the water activities as well as surfing.
If this is important to you then make sure you check what extra activities and excursions are on offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered the surf season on the east coast of Sri Lanka?
The surf season on the east coast of Sri Lanka runs from May through to October. This is when the southwest and southeast swells that hit Indonesia first will travel up and wrap their delightful lines around the right hand points breaks that this stretch of coast is known for.
Because it is also much drier than the southwest coast of Sri Lanka in summer, the east coast is the preferred destination for both weather and waves in these months.
What is considered the surf season on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka?
Unlike the eastern province of Sri Lanka which has a very defined surf season, surfers are likely to score fun to epic waves all year round on the southwest coast of the island.
However, the winter months from November to April are considered the best time of year for both the surf and weather. This is because more of the reef breaks that this coast is known for work best on winter swells, on top of having a drier climate through these months too.
Is Sri Lanka a good destination for learning to surf?
Known for its variety of mellow surf breaks, Sri Lanka is a paradise for people learning to surf. Because of its location in the northern part of the Indian Ocean, by the time swells arrive in Sri Lanka, they have usually lost a lot of their sting.
That’s not to say the waves can’t be really fun for experienced surfers, but unlike Indonesia which is known for its powerful surf, Sri Lanka is known for its fun-sized surf, and we’ll just leave it at that.
What should I expect at a surf camp?
Everything is taken care of. You don’t have to worry about any of the logistics when you’re at surf camp.
Wave Knowledge. When you attend a camp, you’ll be surrounded by people with a good amount of wave knowledge.
How do I choose a surf camp?
Check out the location. Check the accommodation standards. Read testimonials about the classes and the instructors. Go where the water is warm! Let go of preconceptions.
Summary
Sri Lanka is a very exciting country to visit as a surfer. Not only is it a tropical destination which means surfing in boardshorts and bikinis is a given, but it also has some really cool things to see and do outside of the water too.
Known for its cultural sights, wildlife safaris, jungles, waterfalls, mountains, and pristine waters, Sri Lanka is a country teeming with life and excitement.
We hope you found a surf camp within this article that caters to your style of surf holiday so you’ll be scoring the tropical waves of your dreams, if not today, then hopefully tomorrow!