Sri Lanka’s Surf Seasons
For Beginner Surfers
Sri Lanka is one of the most beginner-friendly destinations to learn to surf. In Sri Lanka you will find warm water, mellow waves and sandy bottoms which make a pleasant and safe environment for your first surfing session.
Timing is important, Sri Lanka has two seasons, the Yala and Maha monsoon seasons. Sri Lanka is surfable all year round, but by understanding the changes in seasons, you will be able to locate the most beginner friendly waves on the Island depending on the time of year!
Sri Lanka’s Two Seasons
In Sri Lanka the water stays warm all year but the winds affect opposite sides of the island, and therefore impact the surf seasons. Often one side of the island will have clean, surfable waves while the other side of the island will experience windy conditions and no waves. As a beginner surfer it is important to understand these seasons when choosing where to learn to surf.
Maha Monsoon
From November to April is the Maha Monsoon, also known as the North East Monsoon. This is when the best surf conditions are on Sri Lanka’s south coast and this is the most beginner- friendly season. The South Coast gets light offshore winds, with consistent small to medium sized waves and most days have calm ocean conditions. Beginners should try surfing in Weligama and Ahangama during this season, they will find small, gentle waves and beach breaks, ideal for catching your first few waves!
Yala Monsoon
From May to October is the Yala Monsoon, also known as the South West Monsoon. The best surf conditions during this time is on Sri Lanka’s east coast. The east coast gets clean and consistent swells, and this season is more suited to beginner surfers who already have some basic skills. Beginners should try to score some waves in Arugam Bay. This season is good for beginners who have already had some lessons and now want to progress.
As a general rule of thumb for beginner surfers November to April has the best waves for beginner surfers along the south coast and from May to October the east coast has better waves for progressing beginner surfers. Following this rule ensures you will avoid poor conditions and therefore progress faster along your surfing journey.
Can Beginners Surf All Year?
Yes, Sri Lanka has surfable waves all year-round! But where you surf is more important than when you surf. At least one side of Sri Lanka’s coastline will be working and having more favourable conditions and beginners need to just select the right coast. This is where Kima comes to save the day!
At Kima Surf Camps in Weligama and Hiriketiya we offer a 5 day learn to surf course. This 5 day course is designed for complete beginners and teaches surfers all the basics from the pop-up to turning, both on land and in the water. In Sri Lanka our surf school is located at Weligama Bay which you’ll reach quickly from our Weligama Camp. If you stay in our Hirikeitya Camp you will be driven there every day.
So Which Season Should You Choose?
If you are a complete beginner who has never been on a surfboard before then you will be searching for small forgiving waves and to surf beach breaks, as the sandy bottom is much more forgiving. The south coast is the place to be during November to April. Surf Weligama, Hiriketiya and Ahangama!
If you have surfed before and want to progress your surfing level, you’ll be looking for more consistent waves and a bit of a challenge. The east coast during May to October is where you will find just that!
Kima Surf Camps in Sri Lanka is the right place for you! Get your Kima Package which includes two daily surf sessions, daily yoga classes, daily three-course breakfast, video analysis, pool sessions, social activities and more! No matter when you visit, Sri Lanka will welcome you with waves, sunshine, and endless fun.