ARUGAM BAY
Arugam Bay, or “A-Bay,” is the jewel of Sri Lanka’s East Coast, famed worldwide for its phenomenal surf breaks and relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. It is a place where sun-kissed beaches meet vibrant local culture and rich wildlife.
This idyllic crescent-shaped bay is more than a surfer’s paradise; it’s a gateway to ancient temples and thrilling safaris. It offers a perfect blend of high-energy water sports and tranquil beach life.
Most Popular Attractions
Arugam Bay Surf Points:
Main Point: The most famous right-hand point break, easily accessible from the main town and suitable for experienced surfers.
Pottuvil Point: A slightly longer and more advanced right-hand wave, often less crowded than Main Point.
Whiskey Point: An easier, more relaxed right-hand wave, ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers.
Peanut Farm: A popular spot with two main breaks (a main break and a baby point), known for its friendly atmosphere and great for all levels.
Baby Point: The mellowest section at Peanut Farm, perfect for absolute beginners to learn.
Crocodile Rock: A scenic spot offering a gentler, smaller wave and known for occasional crocodile sightings and stunning sunsets.
Lighthouse Point: A more remote, beautiful right-hand break, often requiring a boat or tuk-tuk ride and known for long rides.
Nature & Wildlife:
Kumana National Park: A spectacular wildlife reserve, adjacent to Yala, famous for its dense population of elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and migratory birds.
Arugam Bay Lagoon: Offers boat or canoe safaris to spot diverse birdlife, crocodiles, and water buffalo in a serene mangrove environment.
Muhudu Maha Viharaya: An ancient Buddhist temple built near the beach, famous for its historical significance and proximity to the ocean.
Magul Maha Viharaya: A historic royal temple located inland, with impressive ruins and a large Buddha statue, linked to a royal wedding.
Elephant Rock: A large, scenic rock formation offering fantastic panoramic views of the coast, especially at sunrise or sunset, and a gentle surf break nearby.
Local Life & Culture:
Pottuvil Town: The main commercial hub nearby, offering a look into authentic local life, markets, and shops.
Panama Village: A traditional fishing village south of A-Bay, offering insight into the local livelihood.
Arugam Bay Beach: The main stretch of sand, ideal for sunbathing, swimming (during the off-season), and watching the local fishermen.
Main Street Bazaar: The main road running through the bay, lined with surf shops, guesthouses, restaurants, and souvenir stalls.
Okanda Devalaya: A small, important Hindu temple on a rocky outcrop further south, the starting point for the Pada Yatra pilgrimage.
Kudumbigala Monastery: A remote and peaceful forest monastery built into a rock, offering breathtaking views and a sense of history.
Samanala Wewa: A local reservoir/tank near Pottuvil, a good spot for quiet birdwatching.
Local Cooking Classes: Numerous local vendors and guesthouses offer classes to learn how to prepare traditional Sri Lankan curries and rice.
Activities & Experiences
Learn to Surf at Main Point: Take a lesson or rent a board to catch your first waves at the famous A-Bay point break, known for its long, gentle rides, ideal for beginners and intermediates.
Surf the Advanced Breaks (Pottuvil Point & Panama): Experienced surfers can chase barrels and bigger swells at nearby Pottuvil Point (a few minutes north) or the remote breaks further south like Panama.
Sunrise Yoga on the Beach: Join a morning yoga class at one of the many studios or resorts that host sessions right on the sand as the sun rises over the Indian Ocean.
Go on a Kumana National Park Safari: Hire a jeep for a half-day or full-day safari to the nearby Kumana National Park, famous for its diverse birdlife, elephants, crocodiles, and leopards.
Explore the Muhudu Maha Viharaya Temple: Visit the ruins of this ancient Buddhist temple, located right on the beach in the neighboring village of Pottuvil.
Witness the Lagoon Wildlife: Take a peaceful boat ride or kayak trip on the Pottuvil or Panama Lagoons, perfect for spotting crocodiles, various water birds, and local fishermen.
Hike to Elephant Rock for Sunset: Climb this iconic, small rock outcrop south of the main bay. It offers stunning panoramic views of the entire bay, especially at sunset, and is a great spot to watch for elephants.
Try Local Sri Lankan Cooking: Enroll in a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry, using fresh spices and local ingredients.
Go Deep-Sea Fishing: Join a local fishing boat for a morning trip to try your hand at catching tuna, snapper, or barracuda in the deep waters off the coast.
Relax and Unwind at Peanut Farm Beach: Take a tuk-tuk to this beautiful, less-crowded beach, which offers another fantastic surf break but is also perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Enjoy a Sunset Beach BBQ: Many guesthouses and restaurants host evening beach BBQs where you can choose fresh seafood grilled right in front of you.
Local Tips & Transport
Tuk-Tuks are King: The primary mode of transport for short distances is the tuk-tuk. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey, and don’t be afraid to politely negotiate. Fares typically range from LKR 300-600 for short rides within the main strip.
Scooter Rental: Renting a scooter is the most flexible way to explore the various surf breaks (Pottuvil Point, Peanut Farm) and nearby lagoons. Ensure you have the proper license and always wear a helmet.
Intercity Travel (Bus/Train): There is no direct train to Arugam Bay. You can take a local bus from Colombo (a long 10-12 hour journey) or a bus/taxi from nearby hubs like Ella or Kandy. For comfort, pre-arranging a taxi is recommended.
Local Surf Shuttles: Many surf camps and guesthouses organize “surf shuttles” (usually tuk-tuks or small vans) that run regular routes to the main surf spots like Whiskey Point and Peanut Farm Beach.
Surf Season is Everything: Arugam Bay is a highly seasonal destination. The main surf season runs from April/May to September/October when the winds and swells are favorable for the East Coast. Outside of this, many hotels, restaurants, and surf camps close down.
Respect Local Culture: Arugam Bay is in a predominantly Muslim area. When outside of the immediate beach/tourist zone, it is respectful for women to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees). Always wear a shirt when in a local town like Pottuvil.
Heat & Sun: The sun is incredibly strong. Always use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated, especially between 10 AM and 3 PM. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for physical activity.
The Power Outlets: Electrical plugs are usually the three-pin round type (Type D/M), though sometimes Type G (UK standard) is also found. Bring a universal adapter.
Cash is Preferred: While larger hotels and restaurants may accept credit cards, most tuk-tuk drivers, small cafes, and local shops operate on a cash-only basis. Withdraw cash in Colombo or larger cities before arriving, although there are a few ATMs in Pottuvil and the main A-Bay strip.
Hidden Gems:
- Kudumbigala Monastery: A beautiful, ancient rock temple and monastery about an hour’s drive south. The climb to the top offers stunning jungle views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Whiskey Point: A scenic surf spot with a very relaxed, bohemian vibe, located north near the village of Pottuvil. Great for beginners, swimming, and chilling in the hammocks.
- Panama Tank: A large local reservoir where you can often spot wild elephants coming to drink, especially in the late afternoon. This is a stop on the way to the Kumana National Park.
Language: The primary languages spoken are Tamil and Sinhalese. English is widely understood in the tourism zone, but learning a few phrases like Istuti (thank you) will be appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Mother’s Kitchen [$5-$10] – A humble, local favorite known for its authentic, home-style Sri Lankan cuisine and its popular all-you-can-eat rice and curry buffet in the evening.
Perera [$5-$10] – A no-frills, local hotspot offering big portions of delicious Sri Lankan food like rice & curry and legendary rotis, making it a great budget-friendly option.
Buffet Arugam Bay [$5-$10] – A classic, budget-friendly spot for an all-you-can-eat Sri Lankan rice and curry buffet featuring a rotating variety of vegetable curries.
Mama’s [$5-$10] – Known for its dirt-cheap, satisfying rice and curry buffet with options like dhal, jackfruit, and pumpkin curry that change daily.
Hopper Man [$5-$10] – A local institution known for late-night eats, specializing in sweet and savory hoppers, available until the early morning hours.
Tandoori Hut [$10-$20] – An Indian curry house with a strong local following, offering unlimited rice and bread (including delicious garlic naan) served with each curry.
Family Delight [$5-$10] – A local hidden gem located slightly out of the main area towards Pottuvil, famous for its incredible, affordable Kottu Roti.
The Sketch [$10-$25] – A no-frills spot run by a local fisherman who grills the catch of the day, ensuring the freshest seafood and a truly local experience.
Tom & Jerry restaurant [$10-$25] – A small, cozy beachfront spot that serves good food, including Sri Lankan and Japanese-style cuisine, perfect for a chilled-out meal with a view.
Rupas Beach Hotel & Restaurant [$10-$25] – An open-air restaurant offering a Sri Lankan-style all-you-can-eat buffet with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
Thaththa’s Tea [$5-$15] – A small, open-air spot known for its simple, traditional Sri Lankan breakfast and lunch items like savory rotis and great tea.
Barracuda Seafood Restaurant [$15-$30] – A popular, locally run spot where you can pick your fresh catch from the daily haul to be grilled, often featured for its quality lobster and prawns.
Mr Fisherman [$15-$30] – Located right on the sand with views of the fishing boats, this spot is owned by a local fisherman and guarantees the freshest grilled catch of the day.
Surf’n’Sun [$15-$30] – A beachfront restaurant offering nightly BBQs where you can choose your fish, with a great atmosphere for watching the sunset.
Serendib Arugambay [$15-$30] – A restaurant nestled along the coastline that is highly regarded for its fresh seafood dishes.
Zephyr [$20-$40] – A top-rated restaurant for a romantic beachfront dinner, offering excellent grilled seafood and a beautiful view of the waves.
Neptune’s best restaurant arugambay [$15-$30] – Known for its focus on ocean-fresh fish, often with a live BBQ setup on the beach in the evening.
Stay Golden Restaurant [$15-$30] – An establishment known for its fresh seafood and grilled options, with a great view and a popular evening BBQ.
Sea View Beach Hotel Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offers a variety of fresh seafood, often presented on a display where you can pick your fish to be cooked.
Arugam Bay Surf Resort Restaurant [$15-$30] – A beachfront spot known for its fresh fish and laid-back atmosphere, often incorporating a mix of local and Western styles.
Maha’s Beach Grill [$15-$30] – A casual beachside grill where the daily catch is cooked over an open fire, a true Arugam Bay seafood experience.
A-Bay Marine [$15-$30] – Known for serving up fresh, simple, and generously portioned seafood dishes with a classic beach dining feel.
Hideaway Resort Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located in a peaceful oasis, this restaurant offers a mixture of world cuisine, often inspired by Mediterranean flavors and using organic, locally sourced produce.
Cili Hotel & Pizza Restaurant [$15-$25] – Home to one of the best wood-fired pizzas in the area, offering crispy crusts and fresh toppings in a casual setting.
Pizza Hub [$15-$25] – A super popular spot with a wood-fired oven, great atmosphere, and known for serving excellent pizza.
Little Bang Kitchen (LBK) [$20-$40] – An Asian fusion restaurant that provides a culinary break from the local scene, known for creative dishes like mushroom dumplings and ramen.
Hummus Bay [$10-$20] – A spot near Main Point known for serving the best hummus and pita in Arugam Bay.
Dinner Table [$15-$30] – Known for its fusion of Israeli and Sri Lankan cuisine, a unique and flavorful mix, with a great vegetarian falafel option.
Meori’s [$20-$35] – A slightly more upscale, stylish dining experience, offering a mix of Western and Sri Lankan dishes, and highly rated for its coffee.
The Spice Trail [$20-$40] – A restaurant offering a blend of international and local food, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and aromatic spices.
Mamali’s [$15-$30] – A long-established spot that serves a wide mix of international dishes, including good quality pasta and Western breakfasts.
The Lighthouse Restaurant [$20-$40] – Part of a well-regarded resort, offering an international menu in an elevated setting overlooking the ocean.
Whiskey Point Resort Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located slightly outside the main bay area, it offers a quality international menu in a beautiful beachfront setting.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Hideaway Blue Cafe and Bar: Located at the Hideaway Resort, slightly set back from the main road, this spot is known for its perfectly blended cocktails, local twists on drinks, and a mellow atmosphere with groovy tunes, often featuring live jazz-soul-blues. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed wind-down.
The Spice Trail: Situated in the heart of Arugam Bay, this spot provides a serene coastal setting, offering inventive cocktails and a sophisticated lounge area to enjoy an evening after surfing.
Siam View Hotel -SVH-: A long-standing favorite on the main road, this hotel’s bar is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, local brews, and a selection of cocktails, making it a reliable spot for a casual drink.
Dream Garden Restaurant & Bar: Found in Pottuvil, a short distance north of the main bay, this restaurant and bar offers a serene setting for enjoying a quiet cocktail, specializing in Italian cuisine and good drinks.
Leaf & Vine | Arugam Bay | Sri Lanka: Situated near the center of the main strip, this bar provides a culinary haven focusing on local flavors, making it a great place to sample unique, local-ingredient cocktails.
Funky de bar: Located on the main road, this spot is known for its lively nightlife atmosphere and delicious drinks, often hosting smaller, spontaneous gatherings.
Beach Point resto-lounge: Offering stunning beach views right in Arugam Bay, this laid-back resto-lounge is ideal for sipping a cocktail while enjoying fresh seafood and the sound of the ocean.
King Coconut Fresh Juice Bar & Soul Bar: Right on the main road, while primarily a juice bar during the day, this place transforms into a chill spot by night, serving simple cocktails and focusing on a tropical, relaxed vibe.
Hide & Chill Bar: A sister spot to Hideaway, located in the resort, this smaller lounge area is a quiet place to enjoy a sophisticated drink and unwind away from the main party spots.
OceanSky: This bar is a known weekly fixture in the Arugam Bay party rotation, particularly on Wednesdays, transitioning from a daytime bar to a lively evening spot on the main beach stretch.
Arugambay Bar: A straightforward and centrally located bar offering a casual atmosphere and standard drink selections, a great place to start the evening.
Funky Monkey Arugambay: Located on the main strip, this bar is known for its playful name and a lively atmosphere, often drawing in the backpacker crowd for cheap drinks and good music.
wagmi: A newer, trendy spot on the main road, offering a modern aesthetic and a focus on unique cocktail creations.
7Heaven: Situated centrally, this bar offers a relaxed rooftop or elevated area, perfect for enjoying a beer or a simple cocktail with a better view of the surrounding town.
Surf N Sun – Arugambay: Located close to the beach, this spot provides the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with a bar that caters to the surfing crowd, offering cold beers and a simple cocktail menu.
Mambo’s: Considered the most famous and longest-running beach party venue in Arugam Bay, located right at the Main Point surf break. It hosts the main weekly event, typically on Saturday nights, drawing the largest crowd for a full-scale beach club experience.
Sababa Surf Cafe: Located on the beach, this is another primary venue in the rotating weekly party schedule, often hosting the Friday night main party. It’s known for its high energy and beachside dance floor.
Ocean Club: While many establishments are referred to as ‘beach clubs’ in Arugam Bay, this name refers to the collective atmosphere of the large, open-air beach venues that transform for the main party nights, often featuring fire dancers and guest DJs.
Blue Wave Hotel Poolparty: Located slightly inland but accessible by tuk-tuk, this hotel is known for hosting a lively pool party, usually on Thursday nights, offering a different scene than the beach clubs.
Whiskey Point: Located about 15 minutes north of the main strip by tuk-tuk, this surf spot is home to a dedicated beachfront bar that hosts a major weekly party, traditionally on Friday nights, offering a more remote and wilder party experience.
Salty Swaims: Located near the central surf schools, this venue is often a pre-party hotspot, especially on Friday nights, providing a social vibe to gather before heading to the main club.
Avo Club: Located centrally, this spot is known for hosting a party night, traditionally on Sunday, offering a lively end to the week’s festivities.
Ups & downs: Situated at the quieter, north end of the beach, this beach club is perfect for day chilling with shaded sun loungers, often transitioning into a relaxed evening bar with a DJ on certain nights.
Tom and Jerry: Another relaxed beach club on the north end, similar to Ups & downs, offering a quieter atmosphere during the day and a chill spot for drinks as the sun sets.
Surf Gangs: A social hostel with a nice pool and big balcony rooms, its communal area and bar often turn into a vibrant pre-party spot with a strong backpacker vibe before the main beach parties.