Top 12 Things to Do in Arugam Bay You Can’t Miss

Located on Sri Lanka’s stunning southeast coast, Arugam Bay is a tropical paradise famous for its golden beaches, world-class surfing waves, and relaxed island vibes. Once a quiet fishing village, Arugam Bay has evolved into a top destination for surfers, backpackers, and nature lovers from around the world. Whether you want to chase the perfect wave, explore nearby national parks, or simply unwind by the ocean, there are countless things to do in Arugam Bay for every kind of traveler.

If you’re planning a visit to Sri Lanka, make sure to apply for your Sri Lanka eVisa in advance — it’s your first step to exploring this coastal gem with ease.

Peaceful view over Arugam Bay Beach

12 Best Things to Do in Arugam Bay – Ultimate Surf & Adventure Guide

1. Go Surfing at Arugam Bay Main Point

Arugam Bay is considered one of the best surf destinations in Asia and is often mentioned among the world’s top surfing spots. The Main Point, located at the southern end of the bay, is the most popular spot, offering consistent right-hand point breaks ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers.

Best Surf Season: May to October

Wave height typically ranges from 3–5 feet, but can occasionally exceed 6–8 feet during strong swells

Surfboard Rentals & Lessons: Available throughout the beachfront

If you’re new to surfing, don’t worry — smaller breaks like Whiskey Point and Baby Point are perfect for beginners. Many surf schools offer affordable lessons and equipment rentals.

2. Relax on the Beach and Watch the Sunrise

Arugam Bay’s beachfront is breathtaking, with soft sand, coconut palms, and the Indian Ocean stretching endlessly ahead. Unlike busier beaches in the west, Arugam Bay retains its peaceful charm.

Wake up early to catch the sunrise — the sky paints vivid hues of orange and gold over the water. Many beachfront cafés open early, allowing visitors to enjoy a coffee with the morning waves.

Popular beaches nearby:

• Peanut Farm Beach – Quiet, perfect for swimming and yoga.
• Whiskey Point Beach – Known for sunrise views and chill beach bars.
• Crocodile Rock Beach is great for nature walks and photography, but swimming is not recommended due to crocodile activity in the nearby lagoon.

3. Take a Safari at Kumana National Park

If you want to combine beach time with a wildlife adventure, Kumana National Park (also called Yala East) is just an hour’s drive from Arugam Bay. It’s one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic and less-crowded safari destinations.

Highlights of Kumana Safari:

• Spot elephants, leopards, wild boar, and jackals.
• Home to over 250 bird species, including pelicans and painted storks.
• Best visited during May–September when migratory birds arrive.
• Jeep safaris can be arranged easily through local tour operators or hotels.

4. Practice Yoga by the Beach

Arugam Bay has become a hub for yoga retreats and wellness travelers. With its tranquil oceanfront setting and warm sea breeze, it’s the perfect place to rejuvenate your body and mind.

Many guesthouses and surf camps offer daily yoga sessions, or you can join multi-day retreats focusing on meditation, Ayurvedic healing, and holistic living.

Arugam Bay is ideal for planning your beach holiday in Sri Lanka’s east coast paradise

5. Visit Elephant Rock

Elephant Rock is one of the most iconic viewpoints near Arugam Bay. It’s a small hill shaped like an elephant, overlooking the ocean and surrounded by calm lagoons.

Why visit:

• Elephant Rock offers beautiful sunset views over the surrounding landscape, even though the sun sets inland rather than over the ocean
• Great for photography and short hikes
• The beach below is often empty, perfect for private swims

How to get there: A 10–15 minute tuk-tuk ride from the town, followed by a short 15-minute climb.

6. Go Lagoon Safari at Pottuvil Lagoon

Just north of Arugam Bay lies Pottuvil Lagoon, a hidden gem for nature lovers. A lagoon safari offers a peaceful journey through mangroves and waterways teeming with wildlife.

What you’ll see:

• Crocodiles, water monitors, and wild elephants near the shore.
• A variety of birds, including eagles and herons.
• Local fishermen paddling through the mangroves.
• Boat safaris last about 1–2 hours and are best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset.

7. Explore the Muhudu Maha Viharaya Temple

Perched on the sand dunes near the ocean, Muhudu Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple believed to be over 2,000 years old.

Legend says it marks the spot where Princess Viharamahadevi landed after being cast adrift from Kelaniya.

Visitors can explore:

• Ancient stupas and stone carvings
• A massive Buddha statue overlooking the sea
• Panoramic views of the coastline
• Remember to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the temple grounds.

8. Enjoy Sri Lankan Food and Beach Cafés

Arugam Bay offers a vibrant food scene, combining Sri Lankan flavors with international cuisine. You’ll find cozy beach cafés, seafood grills, and juice bars lining the main road.

Must-try dishes:

• Kottu Roti – Chopped roti with vegetables, egg, and curry.
• Sri Lankan Rice & Curry – Served with fish or chicken.
• Hoppers – Bowl-shaped pancakes are often eaten for breakfast.
• Fresh seafood – Try grilled prawns, crab curry, or calamari.

The peaceful life in Arugam Bay

9. Explore Nearby Villages and Local Life

Rent a scooter or hire a tuk-tuk to explore the rural side of Arugam Bay. Small fishing villages, paddy fields, and local markets give you an authentic glimpse of Sri Lankan culture.

Things to experience:

• Chat with local fishermen at dawn.
• Visit Panama Village, known for its simple lifestyle and beautiful lagoon.
• Stop by roadside fruit stalls selling fresh coconuts and papayas.

10. Go on a Day Trip to Panama Tank and Crocodile Rock

If you’re craving offbeat adventures, take a day trip to Panama Tank, a large water reservoir surrounded by wildlife and jungle scenery. Continue your journey to Crocodile Rock Beach, where you can watch the waves crash below a scenic lookout point.

It’s one of the best photo spots around Arugam Bay — especially at sunset.

11. Experience Arugam Bay Nightlife

Though Arugam Bay is more laid-back than party-centric, it offers a vibrant beach nightlife during the surf season (May–September).

Many beach bars host live music, bonfires, and full-moon parties under the stars.

Popular spots:

• Mambo’s Beach Club
• Whiskey Point Café (Friday parties)
• Hideaway Bar

12. Visit Nearby Surf Spots

Arugam Bay is surrounded by a cluster of surf points easily accessible by tuk-tuk or scooter:

• Whiskey Point – Gentle waves for beginners.
• Peanut Farm – Two surf breaks for intermediate riders.
• Okanda Point – Advanced surf spot near Kumana National Park.

These areas are quieter than the main beach and offer great conditions from May to October.

Surfers catching the perfect wave

Practical Information for Visiting Arugam Bay

Best Time to Visit

April to October for surfing and dry weather. November to March experiences monsoon conditions with rough seas and heavy rainfall.

How to Get to Arugam Bay

• By road: Approximately 320 kilometers from Colombo (7-8 hours by car) via Monaragala or Ella. Bus services are available from major cities, including Colombo, Kandy, and Galle
• By Air: Domestic flights operate to Batticaloa Airport, followed by a 2–2.5 hour drive to Arugam Bay.
• By Train: Take a train to Ella or Badulla, then transfer by road.

Tip: The most convenient route for tourists is hiring a private driver or taxi for a scenic ride across Sri Lanka’s countryside.

Visa Requirements

Most international visitors require a visa to enter Sri Lanka. An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) can be obtained online prior to arrival.

Apply for your Sri Lanka eVisa online before departure to ensure smooth entry and hassle-free travel to Arugam Bay and other destinations.

Accommodation

Options range from budget hostels and guesthouses to boutique hotels and luxury beachfront resorts, with prices varying significantly between low and high seasons.

What to Pack

Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, modest clothing for temple visits, comfortable walking shoes, and surf gear if you have your own.

Arugam Bay Travel Essentials

• ATMs are available in nearby Pottuvil, but they may run out of cash or not always accept foreign cards, so carrying extra cash is recommended.
• Wi-Fi is available in most cafés and guesthouses, though the connection may be inconsistent during peak season (The Rasta Road, Blue Wave)

Conclusion

Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring temples, or watching elephants at sunset, Arugam Bay offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

This coastal gem is more than just a surfer’s paradise — it’s a soulful destination where nature, tradition, and the ocean meet in harmony.

Plan your trip today, apply for your Sri Lanka eVisa, and experience the magic of Arugam Bay — where every sunrise brings a new adventure.