Arugam Bay
Eastern · Ampara
Arugam Bay is a Sri Lankan travel destination known for surfing, beach, lagoon, nightlife.
surfing
Arugam Bay
Quick facts
Ideal stay
1 to 3 nights
Stay length
1-4 nights (2 recommended)
Timezone
Asia/Colombo
Elevation
4 m
Tourism region
East Coast (Surf & Beaches)
Budget level
Budget to midrange
Recommended pace
Relaxed
Popularity
6/10
Crowd level
Moderate
Difficulty
Easy
Coordinates
6.846851, 81.830696
Data status
Generated starter requires verification
Linked attractions
15
Connectivity
Internet quality
Good
Mobile coverage
Average
Airports
Nearest airport
Batticaloa Airport (BTC)
Distance from airport
~120 km
Recommended arrival airport
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
Recommended departure airport
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
History
A remote Muslim and Tamil fishing settlement on the island's southeast coast, Arugam Bay was discovered by travelling surfers in the 1960s and 70s and slowly grew into one of Asia's best-known surf points. Rebuilt after the 2004 tsunami and the end of the civil war, it is now the hub of Sri Lanka's east-coast surf season.
Climate
east coast tropical
Best time to visit
Best months
Avoid
Good for
Interest scores
Beach
9/10
Photography
8/10
Adventure
8/10
Relaxation
8/10
Nightlife
7/10
Nature
5/10
Culture
5/10
Food
5/10
Hidden gem
5/10
Wildlife
3/10
Shopping
3/10
Known for
Nearby places
Map view
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Experiences
Experiences in Arugam Bay
Hidden Gems
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Food & Dining
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Where to Stay in Arugam Bay
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When to Visit
When to Visit in Arugam Bay
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Safety
Safety in Arugam Bay
Travel Tips
Travel Tips in Arugam Bay
Suggested Itineraries
Suggested Itineraries in Arugam Bay
Nearby destinations
Itineraries featuring Arugam Bay
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