Make friends with the locals. There are many other places to surf in the vicinity, but you need local help when venturing outside the main city. Also, Sri Lanka is in the middle of a civil war and the east coast of the country is on the frontline. Just a reminder.
Overview
Atmosphere
This is an international surf destination, equipped with all the things you would expect. The australian contingency is powerful. It's is a very poor region of Sri Lanka, power shortages and water shortages are common. Thank god for the surf bungalows and western surf influence.
General
Great, with tons of possibility for adventuring to other spots nearby with no crowds. The food is amazing.
to go or not?
Im currently on the west coast scoring good but not amazing waves around the Hikkaduwa area. i am thinking about heading over to Abay but im having trouble getting info about the whether its the right time of year (swell/wind)or if its worth the hassle. has anyone got any tips? Ive also herd that the Israeli factor is pretty intense and although Ive got nothing against them i know what there like in the surf. is this true.
Cheers
comment by vegansurfer, 2009-10-07 10:14:34
aragum bay travel
take train from Colombo to Matara, then take an express bus to arugum bay...long travel over 8hours
comment by Anonymous, 2009-07-07 08:48:03
Hikkaduwa - Arugam Bus connection
To get to Arugam Bay you need to first catch the bus from Hikkaduwa to Ambalangoda 20 mins up the road. This is the transport hub. Many options from here, but you might want to catch the bus to Ampara, then switch to get to Pottuvil. You can walk to Arugam from pottuvil or pay 150 rupees for the tuktuk. Rooms should cost 500 rupees, don't pay more than this unless you want luxury.
comment by Anonymous, 2009-10-17 12:44:38