Lovely Arugam Bay is by far and away the east coast’s most traveller friendly destination. Approximately 314 KM from Colombo, Arugam Bay is home to an eclectic local population of Tamils, Muslims, Sinhalese and expat Europeans. Arugam Bay was first put on the map by visiting surfers, who came in search of the best waves of Sri Lanka. In fact, Arugam Bay is known as one of the best three surfing spots in the world. Now this little fishing village and unspoilt town attracts many a non-surfer as well due to its unconventional laidback charm.
Whisky Point, Crocodile Rock and Pottuvil Point are the three main surfing points which are frequented by avid surfers. Other than surfing Arugam Bay offers an abundance of opportunity for underwater photography and other water sports such as kite surfing, wakeboarding etc. The quiet town comes alive on weekend nights with beach parties and mini raves catering to the party animals.
Whisky Point, Crocodile Rock and Pottuvil Point are the three main surfing points which are frequented by avid surfers.
Arugam Bay hosts the Sri Lankan Airlines Pro every year in August/September. It’s an important surfing event for both men (World Longboard Title division) and women (6 Star World Tour division).
Arugam Bay is also the main party destination in the East Coast. Friday nights at Whiskey Point and Saturdays at Mambo’s should not be missed.
Over 200 acres in size and inside the lagoon is a small, beautiful island. The lagoon is surrounded by mangrove forests that are home to an abundance of wildlife - tropical birds, lizards, crocodiles.
Few kilometers to the south of Arugam Bay is Panama (pronounced: Paa-na-ma). You will being taken to a different world where beach meets jungle.
Muhudu Maha Vihara is a Buddhist temple situated at Pottuvil. This temple which is situated near a wide beach, has been built over 2000 years ago by King Kavan Tissa of Ruhuna.
To see elephants near Arugam Bay, your best bet is Lahugala. During July and August over 150 elephants come to the reservoir to rehydrate, bringing with them a spectacle of aquatic birds.