Arugam Bay
Towards the southern end of the east coast, the village of Arugam Bay is a popular destination with independent travelers drawn by the charms of its beautiful, palm-fringed beach. This is Sri Lanka’s surfing trump. Best between May and September, it has a variety of evocatively named breaks – Whiskey Point, Peanut Farm, Crocodile Rock – in wild, unspoiled and sometimes hard-to-reach locations. Arugam Bay attracts budget-conscious sun-seekers looking to combine surfing with visits to deserted beaches, historic temples and remote national parks (Kumana and Lahugala Kitulana). Tours of nearby Pottuvil Lagoon are easily arranged, as well as motor-boat trips out to sea in search of dolphins.