Sri Lanka is a true year-round destination, served by two monsoons and situated close to the equator. December to April is the high season when tourists throng to the island nation to bask in the winter sun. It is the southwest coast’s beach season, as the monsoons are active on the east coast. Come May, and the east coast is nice and dry until September. Sun, sea, and summer are in perfect harmony on the island. Hugged by the turquoise Indian Ocean all around and a staggering number of rivers and lakes inland, a watersport summer is always on the cards here. So, let’s find out how to indulge in it, whichever way you love to make a splash.
Surfing
A surfing community from far and wide gathers on the shores of Sri Lanka for world-class surfing. Its stunning and plentiful beaches provide a vibrant surf culture, and the warm hospitality of the locals adds to the overall experience. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer seeking challenging waves or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, surfing in Sri Lanka offers a memorable and rewarding adventure.
Summer offers fantastic opportunities for wave riders of all levels on the east coast, where there are favorable surfing conditions as the monsoon season stays active in the south and west. Arugam Bay on the east coast is the surfing mecca of Sri Lanka and one of the best surf spots in the country. From peeling point breaks to epic barrels, it has got it all.
Best Surf Spots
Main Point – also known as “The Point,” it offers long, right-hand waves, ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers. On the best days, you can catch a ride of up to 150m (492ft). The waves break on a flat reef bottom.
Baby Point – as the name suggests, its gentle waves, which are continuations of Main Point, are suitable for beginners and intermediaries. It has a sandy bottom.
Peanut Farm – also situated in Arugam Bay, is a beginner’s choice and suitable for intermediate-level surfers.
Okanda – an hour’s drive from Arugam Bay, the pros are in for a treat at Okanda, with its 2m high barrels.
Pottuvil Point – a short distance from Arugam Bay, Pottuvil Point is known for its fast and powerful waves, more suitable for advanced surfers.
Whisky Point – found a little north of Arugam Bay, this is a great spot for beginners and intermediate surfers. Experience its gentler waves, sandy bottom, and relaxed atmosphere.
Elephant Rock – south of Arugam Bay, this secluded right point can get up to 6ft on a good day. Its first section produces starting barrels, and the rest is soft waves. It is suitable for various skill levels.
Lighthouse – the most northerly spot and less well-known, its right-handers are suitable for both starters and pros. The rippable spot has a boulder-sand bottom.
Best time
The prime surfing season on the East Coast spans from May to September when spots like Pottuvil Point and Arugam Bay are at their finest. The biggest swells arrive between June and August. Crowds thin out in May and September.
Scuba Diving & Snorkelling
Trincomalee, on the northeast coast, offers one of the best diving experiences on the island. Pigeon Island, a nesting area for rock pigeons, is a marine national park and one of the best scuba diving and snorkeling sites in Sri Lanka. Surrounded by coral reefs, its lively marine life is vibrant and numerous. From schools of colorful fish to graceful sea turtles, you will be mesmerized in every direction you look.
Swami Rock, Fort Rock, Eel Rock, South Reef, North Reef, White Rock, and Crow Island are popular five sites. There are also multiple wreck sites off the coast of Trincomalee, one of the biggest natural harbors in the world. The pristine beaches of Nilaveli, Uppuveli, and Pasikidah have some of the healthiest coral reefs in Sri Lanka. Snorkeling and diving here are magical.
Trincomalee is a whale-watching spot too. It is a haunt for blue whales and sperm whales. Blue whales are seen Between June and October, around 6 to 8 nautical miles east of Trincomalee, about 30 minutes by boat.
Best Time
April through October is the best time.
Jet Skiing & Windsurfing
Arugam Bay, Pasikudah, and Nilaweli are the east coast’s most popular destinations for water sports in Sri Lanka. The region’s beautiful coastal areas provide ideal conditions for jet skiing, wind surfing, and water skiing with their clear waters and scenic surroundings.
Best Time
May to September.
Sailing
Summer offers idyllic conditions for sailing on the East Coast. You can sail in Koddiyar Bay in Trincomalee, where the ancient Koneswaram temple is perched high on a hill. Cruise around Pigeon Island National Park and Nilaveli, and sail to Sallitvu Island and Pasikudah Bay.
Best Time
June to September.
Paddle boarding
The waters off the east coast are made for paddle boarding. Pasikudah, Kuchchaveli, Sallitivu, and Ilantatunu offer opportunities for stand-up paddle boarding.
Best Time
May to September.
Conclusion
The East Coast of Sri Lanka livens up during the summer months. Stayed hidden from international travelers for decades due to war, it is now fast becoming a prized destination for watersports in Sri Lanka. Blue Lanka Tours will tailor-make your summer holiday in Sri Lanka for the ultimate watersport adventure. Our travel experts will guide you to choose the peak spots and activities all year round. Would you visit Sri Lanka’s East Coast in the summer?