Why set a one-day adventure itinerary in the Arugam Bay area in Sri Lanka? An Insider's Guide to the Southeast Coast

Do you have just one day to spare and are wondering where to head off to during your stay in Sri Lanka? Look no further than Arugam Bay. This crescent-shaped surf town on the southeastern coast of the island is known for its laid-back beach vibes, pristine, natural settings and more. Check out these reasons why you need to make a call at this globally celebrated surfing destination. 

Engage in world-class surfing 

If you are into surfing,  Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka, is where you should be heading. It has gained fame as a premier surfing spot that is globally renowned for its consistent, long right-hand point breaks. The best time to head to this destination is between May and October. Four- to eight-foot swells can be expected. To avoid larger crowds while experiencing good wave conditions, you can even plan your surfing expedition from April to September. If you are an expert surfer or even an intermediate one, you can head off to Main Point. If you are just starting on your surfing venture, you can visit places like Baby Point, Crocodile Rock or Peanut Farm. Those who are seeking some tranquillity while engaging in the sport can visit destinations such as Lighthouse Point, Whisky Point, and Pottuvil Point, which are only a short drive away. 

Take part in a wildlife safari 

Visit the Arugam Bay area for an opportunity to witness incredible wildlife on the southeastern coast of the island. Spot leopards, sloth bears, elephants and migratory birds like painted storks, pelicans and flamingos. Properties like Malkey Rent A Car provide 4WD and SUV models that are suitable for safaris and wildlife excursions to national parks like Kumana and Lahugala Kitulana. These are less crowded wildlife sanctuaries compared to the heavily trafficked national parks in the south. Therefore, you will be able to engage in your explorations in peace. A Pottuvil Lagoon boat safari too should be on your cards so that you can venture through the mangroves and see creatures like water monitors, crocodiles and bird species.

Nadarajah Mauran, At Kumana National Park, CC BY-SA 4.0

Explore ancient ruins 

Get a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lankan history far beyond the region’s infamous surf breaks. Visit extraordinary religious destinations such as Muhudu Maha Viharaya, Muhudu Maha Viharaya and the Kudumbigala Monastery for spiritual encounters. Muhudu Maha Viharaya is recorded as the place where Princess Vihara Maha Devi landed after being cast into the sea on a golden vessel. This Buddhist temple is located on the dunes of Pottuvil and features ancient stone statues that are believed to be King Kavantissa’s and Queen Vihara Maha Devi’s. It also has ancient moonstones and stone pillars that are believed to be more than 2,000 years old. Muhudu Maha Viharaya is the location where King Kavantissa and Queen Vihara Maha Devi got married. It has a beautifully preserved dagoba with intricately carved pillars.

Enjoy beachfront dining and fresh seafood 

As Arugam Bay is a coastal town, fresh seafood is abundant there. Anyone visiting the area should not miss out on tasting its delicious seafood dishes. These meals include ingredients which are sourced fresh from the ocean. You get a variety of tantalising seafood delicacies such as mango-coconut prawn curry, calamari curry, grilled lobster, and seafood koththu (flatbread pieces mixed with vegetables, seafood and sauces) to sample. Beachfront dining is also a must-try experience. Most of these seafood treats are prepared on an open beachfront BBQ. Enjoying your dinner while digging your toes in the sand, watching the sunset, listening to the soothing ocean waves lapping at the shore and feeling the salty ocean breeze fanning your face is a whole new sensory experience.