Most of the surf breaks in Arugam bay are all located within 20 – 30 mins of the town. This collection of unique and natural surfing points is indeed a crowd puller, as surfers can pretty much surf in a new point, each day of the week! The fact that so many points exist, is down to the determination, passion and dedication of the true surfing tribe that continues to haunt these east coast waters.
During the civil conflict, access to these, often remote points, were limited at best. During the late 90’s, the Southern part of the East coast became less affected by the conflict, making the discovery and access to these points, much easier. The presence of Naval camps and bases, all along this part of East coast, implies how important this area is to the island’s security.
Main Surfing Points of Arugam Bay
Komari – Lighthouse Point/ Green Point
How to get there
Travel North from Pottuvil along the A4 passing Urani lagoon to your right, until you came to the Komari twin board. From here ask directions to the lighthouse, the point is located just there.
The Light House (T: 077-317-9594) is an organic farm and guesthouse located directly in front and offers comfortable accommodation.
Further North in Manachenai and Sangaman Kanda are said to be surf points, ask for directions and enjoy with care.
This surfing point is located along the coast of the Komari village, some ten kilometers North to Pottuvil. This beautiful beach/point is yet to see a peak in its popularity, but is nevertheless frequented by a handful of surfers. The beach stretch prior to the lighthouse is pristine and inviting. The drive to reach this point is also supremely beautiful with unending swathes of paddy fields of either side.
The name ‘Komari’ is said to have been bestowed upon this place after a strange incident when the King of Ruhuna, Kavantissa, who was searching for his princess, asking everyone ‘ko kumari’ or ‘where is my princess?’ lending itself how this name (Komarigama) came about.
Whisky Point
How to get there
Travel North from Pottuvil along the A4 and at the Urani Lagoon Bridge make a right turn towards the coast. Follow this dirt road and some two kilometres later you will arrive at Sababa. The Whiskey Surfing Point is just in front, on the right. Ask for directions if you get lost, this is a very popular place.
Whiskey Point came into popularity less than five years ago. Today this is probably the most frequented surf point, after the Arugam Bay Main Point. Whiskey point is set on a wide beach with a set of boulders at its bend, providing ideal conditions for surfers of all abilities.
Sababa, is a bar and café that offers a place to laze the day, chill out or simply sit back and observe other surfers in the water. This two tiered venue also hosts beach parties, during the season, each Friday night, with music and dancing till dawn. A lagoon tour service also operates beside the Urani Lagoon Bridge and especially closer to sunset is an amazing experience with plenty of bird and other wildlife on display.
Pottuvil Point
How to get there
From Pottuvil town, take the road adjoining the Base Hospital and ask for directions. Basically you have to get to the coast line and then travel along the sand dunes for some two kilometers until you reach this point, where beached fishing boats can be seen.
This point is popular with surfers for its unique setting and location. A long deserted sandy beach ends with a large set of boulders that make it seem somewhat like a Martian landscape, especially in the late evenings.
Madame’s Slap – Stardust Point
How to get there
As you pass the main Arugam Bay Bridge, take the access road that leads to the Stardust Hotel and the point is just there.
This Surf point is located close to the famous Stardust Hotel and is near the very start of the A’Bay Strip.
Baby Point
How to get there
At the very end of the A’Bay Strip make a left along the beach Road and then head to the right following the beach till you are in front of Mambos, the point is just there.
This point is located right opposite the famous Mambos and is said to be more suited for beginners with waves of different heights catering all abilities. As this area also draws a lot of swimming public, always be on the lookout for people in the sea when surfing.
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