Located in the southeast of Sri Lanka, Arugam Bay is a well-known beach that attracts active young people and water sports enthusiasts. The area offers ample space for camping and is suitable for surfing and swimming, making it a popular destination.
The best time to visit is from November to April, while the summer rainy season can be more budget-friendly. Although the infrastructure is not well-developed, there are accommodation options available, such as the Hotel Arugam Bay Beach Inn.
Surfing is the main water attraction, with popular spots nearby, and snorkeling is also possible due to the large coral reef. Visitors should be aware of cultural norms.
Additionally, the area offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and visiting nearby lakes.
Visitor reviews highlight that Arugam Bay beach in Sri Lanka is a hidden gem with stunning natural beauty and is popular for surfing. Visitors praise the long stretches of white sand, crystal clear waters, and range of activities and amenities. However, some reviewers note that the beach can become crowded during peak season and some parts of the beach can be rocky.
Visitors to Arugam Bay often stay in the nearby town of Pottuvil, which is just a short drive away and offers a range of accommodation options. Many choose to stay in beachfront lodgings within walking distance to Arugam Bay to enjoy surfing and the vibrant beach scene.
The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.
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| Low / High | 24.3°C/36.5°C |
|---|---|
| Feels Like (High) | 40.9°C |
| Sea Temperature | 30.3 °C |
|---|---|
| Wave Height | 1.2 m |
| Rain Chance | 58% |
|---|---|
| Rainfall | 0.8 mm |
| Rain Duration | 2 h |
| Sunrise / Sunset | 05:54/18:23 |
|---|---|
| Sunshine Hours | 10.6 hrs |
| UV Index | 7.6 |
| Cloud Cover | 92% |
| Speed | 7.3 km/h |
|---|---|
| Gusts | 23.8 km/h |
| Direction | SW |
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