Arugam Bay: The Laid-Back Surf Town You’ll Never Want to Leave
Arugam Bay has an unusual sort of magic - Easygoing, sun-soaked, and bursting with character, Arugam Bay (or "A-Bay, as most call it)
Arugam Bay has an unusual sort of magic—that which lurks under your nose. Perhaps it's the roar of the waves rolling in all night long or the way sand feet and sunset beverages cause strangers to become friends. Whatever it is, this little surf town on the east coast of Sri Lanka merely makes you feel at home; it does not try to wow you.
Easygoing, sun-soaked, and bursting with character, Arugam Bay (or "A-Bay, as most call it) is This is the kind of place that invites you to stay a little bit longer than expected whether your activities are surfing waves, lagoons, or just hammock swinging with a fresh coconut in hand.
Why Visit Arugam Bay?
Unlike more sophisticated beach communities, the atmosphere is laid back, the people are friendly, and there is a real charm here.
Although surfers visit for the world-class breaks, you do not have to surf to fall in love with Arugam Bay. Yoga by the sea, wildlife safaris just a short drive away, and beach cafés where you can spend the entire day doing absolutely nothing—and feel fantastic about it.
Best Things to Do in Arugam Bay
Surf (or Learn to)
First let's start with the obvious. Particularly from May to September, Arugam Bay is among the best surf destinations worldwide. Famously for its long, right-hand break, Main Point, right at the southern end of the beach, attracts serious surfers. Beginners are very welcome too.
Peanut Farm and Whiskey Point, two great surf locations with softer waves and relaxed vibe just up the coast, Even if you have never tried surfing, this is a great place to start since surf schools and board rentals are everywhere.
Sunrise at Elephant Rock
A short drive (and a little hike) towards the south of town takes you to one one of the best view points in the area: Elephant Rock. Arriving just before dawn, climb up and see the sun rising across the sea. If fortune favors you, you might even come upon wild elephants on your route there in the nearby scrub lands.
Lagoon Safaris in Panama or Urani
Want to get away from the beach? Head inland for a quiet canoe trip across the nearby lagoons. All kinds of birds, crocodiles, and occasionally even elephants call these still waters home. Still wild, still peaceful, it is a quite different side of the east coast.
Naveen Devinda
Beach Yoga & Wellness
Considered as a popular stop on the backpacker wellness trail, Arugam Bay boasts many different venues with yoga sessions, massages, and even full-on retreats. Sunrise yoga with the sound of the sea? Please indeed.
Eat Your Way Through Town
Here , the food scene is remarkably varied. There is everything from wood-fired pizza and smoothie bowls to hot local rice and curry. Try a lumprais wrapped in banana leaf, sip a lime soda, or straight out on the sand dig into a seafood BBQ.
When to Visit
From May to September, when the surf is up and the sky are clear, Arugam Bay experiences its main season. At this point, the town truly comes alive with surf events, live music evenings, and an air of buzz.
Should you be more in peace and quiet than in parties and waves, the shoulder months (April or October) provide a more subdued, local atmosphere with less crowds and less expensive rates.
Where to Stay
From eco-lodges and boho hostels to beachside cabanas, Arugam Bay has something for all kinds of visitors. Many areas are run by residents or expats who have made A-Bay their home; thus, you will also find friendly hospitality and some amazing travel tales.
Well-known places to Stay:
Main Street: Surfing, cafés, nightlife, near the beach
Pottuvil Point: Perfect for those looking to disconnect, quieter and more rustic.
Particularly on full moon evenings, Whiskey Point area is a surfer and backpacker haven.
Travel Tips
- Cash : ATMs are limited and not all places take cards.
- Monkeys: They’re sneaky and will cheekily steal your snacks.
- Be prepared for heat: The east coast sun is strong—bring sunscreen and a hat.
- Go local: Eat at small scale family-run places, tour with local guides, and buy handmade crafts from the village.
Final Thoughts
Arugam Bay is not about rating attractions. It's about slowing down, tanning in the sun, and just existing in the flow. One of those locations drawing people from all around the world—and drawing them back year after year.
Come for the surf; stay for the sunsets; and be not surprised if you leave with sand in your rucksack and intend to come back.
