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If you are thinking of visiting the beautiful island of Sri Lanka. Then Arugam bay is a MUST to add to your list! Whether you are planning a solo journey, family trip or romantic getaway, Arugam bay has a lot to offer. Today we give you all the information needed to make your adventure as smooth as can be. From the town itself, the current situation to how to get there we tell you everything.
The town of Arugam Bay.
Short history:
On the South-East coast of Sri Lanka, this touristic town was originally known for its fishing talents. The small town used to thrive from the fishing industry. Local hotels and restaurants would buy the freshly caught fish to be served in their dishes.
Bordering the Indian Ocean, this charming town had so much to offer and it didn’t take long for everyone to notice it.
Arugambay is locally known as Abay. And is home to a worldwide famous surf spot.
Known as one of the 10 top surf destinations in the world. Abay regularly hosts international surf competitions at Main Point break. Taking a step out of the water and onto land is well worth it. There is still much to be seen in the nearby area. From the amazing sunsets and lush green landscapes to the surrounding wildlife. When located in the town itself most of the daily activities are doable on foot. Located along one main road that is full of shops and restaurants. Arugam bay has all you need just a short walk away. It is possible to rent bicycles or take a walk into town to get some well-deserved lunch or catch a few waves!
Hard times for the country:
Over the last couple of years, the country and more specifically this town has been struggling. On 26.12.2004 Sri Lanka fell victim to a Tsunami. Ravaging the coastal towns, Arugam bay took a hard hit. Rebuilding their community together, the locals created a lifelong bond that makes visiting this town that much more beautiful.
A short 15 years later another fatal incident hit the country. A terrorist attack badly impacted the tourism industry and the economy of the island. Yet again the people’s strength was put to test. But with Sri Lankan spirit they held on and continued to be the warm-hearted people I know so well. Things didn’t stop there. Not so long after came the Covid pandemic. Causing serious struggle to the world this also limited travelling and the touristic income.
So, why visit Abay right now during an economic crisis? For multiple years Sri Lanka has had to face difficult injustices but remains strong. Still today with an economical crisis the country battles to live a stable, healthy life. In the first part, I told you of the beauty and generosity of this country/ town. That is the real Sri Lanka.
Arugam bay is a pure treasure that will blow your mind. Palm trees, fine sand, big swells and great food await you! Travelling here is still possible and your holiday will be perfectly safe if you follow the guidelines we give you.
What to do in Arugam Bay?
Catch some waves.
As mentioned before Abay is home to the most famous surf spot on the Island: “Main point”. But don’t worry if you have never stepped foot on a surfboard before! With its several surf breaks, the East coast welcomes all levels of surfers from beginners to professionals!
When starting your surf journey it can be hard to know what to do first. A major part that plays in your experience is selecting a surf spot that is suitable to your level.
In town: In the centre of the town itself, you can find two surf breaks: Baby point and Main point.
Baby point is located just off the town’s main road and is ideal for beginners and longboarders. The break needs at least a medium swell to work correctly and creates the ideal wave to learn on. With a smaller wave, you have time to learn all the required skills and have LOTS of fun in the water!
Main point is located just after Baby point break. As mentioned it is the main surf break in town. Carpeted with a reef bottom, the entrance can be difficult for the inexperienced. The spit offers long right-hand rides on generally bigger/ stronger waves than baby point. It is a more advanced surf break, but don’t worry there is all you need to sit back and watch if you aren’t yet at that level.
Just outside of town you will find many other surf spots. I have listed the most reputed ones for you just here:
Peanut Farm has two breaks, one for advanced surfers and the other for beginners/ intermediates. Located off a beautiful green area, the surf spot is located just next to the rocks. The wave is fun and worth a trip just for the journey there
Pottuvil point just next to Arugam bay is the small town of Pottuvil. Closest to Abay, here you will find shops, markets and another surf break.
Elephant Rock is located next to an impressive build-up of rocks. Mostly known for its glorious sunsets and amazing views. Don’t hesitate to catch some waves when the swell is right. Beginners and more advanced surfers can both surf here.
Where to get your boards?
Feeling confident enough to go out there alone or just looking to rent a board? Then look no further than the town itself. Located along the main road and beachfront you will find multiple surfboard rental places. Here you can get a board and even get guided classes to help you progress at a quicker pace. If you already have your boards then these places can still be handy if you get a cheeky ding during your session.
Take a step on the wild side.
Surfing isn’t to everyone’s liking. But not to worry this amazing Island has a lot to offer. I have never seen such rich, green landscapes before in my life. Arugam has a very laid-back vibe. From the friendly locals to the wildlife you will find in your day-to-day activities. This town doesn’t stop amazing you. The area is populated by wild elephants, deer, buffalo, bears, and even the rare leopard. Not to worry! They stay out of town but you can spot them on your tuk-tuk ride.
Immersed in nature and wildlife it is the ideal place to take a safari trip. Travelling in a 4×4 you can take your time to admire the diverse wildlife and snap a pic or two. Here are a couple of places to think of: The national park of Yala, and the National park of Udalawawe.
Safari around the area.
It is possible to take a safari around the area of Arugam bay. This is a great option to avoid the travelling time to the National parks. Here you may spot wild buffalo, bears and leopards if lucky!
Take a break.
Sometimes it’s nice to just sit back and soak up the sun. With a long stunning crescent beach, it makes the perfect tanning spot.
The beach is home to both Baby point and Main point. Here you may sit back and relax whilst sipping a fresh coconut. There is a possibility to rent loungers from the multiple hotels on the beachfront for those who don’t want to get sandy bums.
The weather in the high season can get very hot so avoid exposing yourself during the stronger hours ( 11h-15h) and make sure to protect yourself with a good sunscreen. Like everywhere you can experience a rainy moment, but be reassured they generally appear in the evening and last only a couple of minutes.
You can also refresh yourself with a dip in the Indian Ocean. The waters are warm and certain areas have shallow zones which is ideal for the younger ones. If you are bathing closer to Baby point (in front of Mambo’s) then keep in mind that the surfers are beginners and try to stay out of their way. All of this is sure to make you hungry and thirsty. Keeping you hydrated and healthy are the different restaurants just steps away: Ice creams, cool drinks, and yummy food.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
When it comes to meal times Abay has everything you need. The local restaurants here offer the typical Sri Lankan meals but also have a more Western cuisine. Whilst here we recommend you try the local cuisine, it is known to be less spicy than the Southern cuisine.
From dhal curry, coconut symbol, fish, chicken, roti, and paratha, to endless vegetable curries. You can find something to your taste. If not indulge in some fluffy pancakes, sweet rotis or a cheeky coffee and cake in the centre.
When the sun goes down Arugam bay has a fun, energetic vibe. There are many different bars to enjoy a cocktail or two. The town is all about sharing, so more or less every night there is live music, karaoke or a party in a different place. Allowing people to discover multiple places and the town to share the business.
Something to know about Sri Lankans is that they know how to have fun! When it comes to partying they go hard or go home. If you feel like getting your boogie on then it doesn’t disappoint. Beachfront parties are lit in this town.
Where is it?
Arugam bay is located on the South-East side of the Island. Surrounded by National parks, the town is not as easily accessed as the rest of the Island. But with that comes an amazingly calm feeling to the town. This part of the Island is known for its green, wild heart. The animals populate the multiple national parks and spaces giving a unique experience to those who pass by. The Island itself is so diverse, each part offering different landscapes and attractions.
When to go there?
Sri Lanka has two seasons that switch and swap throughout the year. They are called wet and dry seasons. Although the names pretty much explain themselves it is important to know when they start and how they will affect your holidays. We will focus on the SouthEast region of Arugam bay.
-The wet season generally starts around October/ November and will last until May/ June. This strictly concerns the weather. During the wet season, rain and stormy weather are more common even though it never really gets cold.
-The dry season starts around June/ July and ends towards October/ September. During this season the days are filled with sun and hot temperatures. For the surfers, it is important to keep your eye on the swells. They generally start to build up around June but are best towards July and August.
How to get there?
With the current situation in Sri Lanka, transport has become limited, but still possible if planned. I have some tips that will save you from complications on arrival. Depending on the budget and desires there are different ways to reach Abay.
You may choose to travel directly from the Airport to Abay or include stops on the way to cut down the journey. It’s important to keep updated on the country’s position. The country is struggling with fuel shortages, among others making prices rise and options reduce.
Taxi: Book a taxi before you arrive!! This will most probably be cheaper and also it relieves you of the stress on arrival. With the fuel, shortage prices have risen but remain cheap compared to the Western countries. This is the comfiest way to travel around the country and will send you directly to Abay. It is a 5h30/ 6h journey so don’t hesitate to ask for pit stops, the drivers are usually very nice and helpful.
Public transport: If you want a truly Sri Lankan experience then you can find buses or trains that head towards the East from Colombo.
But be well aware that the buses and trains are VERY busy and drive VERY fast. You will not be guaranteed a seat unless you arrive early.
Highway bus: This bus runs from Colombo to Matara in the South. But you will have to first get a bus from the airport to the Colombo bus station. There are no trains or direct buses to Abay unless booked privately. If you have time, I recommend making a stop in the South to cut the journey into two. You can discover the Southern towns and food, and also get some well-needed rest. Sri Lanka is living through a difficult period but is nonetheless safe for tourists. The main protests are in the capital city, far from touristic zones such as Arugam Bay Area. It is still a safe and beautiful holiday destination.
Featured Image Credit: Shanti Hesse
