Sri Lanka’s Surfing Capital & Untamed East Coast
Discover Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka’s world-famous surfing destination, where consistent waves, golden beaches, wildlife-rich lagoons, and ancient monasteries create one of the island’s most rewarding coastal holidays. Welcoming everyone from complete beginners to experienced surfers, Arugam Bay comes alive between May and October, when surfers from around the world arrive to ride the legendary breaks of Main Point, Whiskey Point, Peanut Farm, Elephant Rock, Crocodile Rock, and Panama Point.
However, Arugam Bay offers far more than surfing. Paddle quietly through the mangroves of Pottuvil Lagoon, where elephants, crocodiles, kingfishers, sea eagles, and countless water birds inhabit one of Sri Lanka’s richest wetland ecosystems. Venture into nearby Kumana National Park, internationally recognised for its exceptional birdlife, leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and wetlands, or visit Lahugala National Park, renowned for some of Sri Lanka’s largest gatherings of wild elephants. Those seeking history and spirituality can hike to the ancient Kudumbigala Monastery, while the historic Pada Yathra pilgrimage route, followed by Hindu devotees for centuries on their journey to Kataragama, adds another fascinating dimension to the region.
Whether you’re planning a surf holiday, wildlife safari, birdwatching adventure, lagoon excursion, or simply wish to unwind beside the Indian Ocean, Arugam Bay offers one of Sri Lanka’s most diverse coastal experiences.
Travel there comfortably with CCT Sri Lanka. Our Tourist Board–licensed chauffeurs, modern air-conditioned vehicles, helicopter transfers, and personalised holiday planning ensure your journey to Sri Lanka’s east coast is every bit as memorable as the destination itself.
Destination Highlights
Surfing | Main Point | Whiskey Point | Peanut Farm | Elephant Rock | Panama Point | Kumana Safari | Lahugala Safari | Pottuvil Lagoon | Birdwatching | Kudumbigala | Beaches
▼ Getting There
Chauffeur Transfers
Travel across Sri Lanka in comfort with a private chauffeur and air-conditioned vehicle. Enjoy reliable door-to-door transport for stress-free journeys and complete peace of mind.
Luxury Travel | Chauffeur Driven
Helicopter Transfers
Travel between Sri Lanka’s finest destinations by private helicopter, combining luxury travel, breathtaking aerial scenery, rapid transfers, and unforgettable experiences above the island.
Helicopter | Aerial Views
Private Charter Flights
Charter a private aircraft for the fastest and most flexible way to explore Sri Lanka, enjoying exclusive travel, direct routes, and exceptional comfort throughout your journey.
Private Aviation | Time Saving
▼ Signature Experiences
Surfing Lessons
Learn to surf or improve your skills with professional instructors at Arugam Bay’s world-famous surf breaks, suitable for beginners, intermediate surfers, and confident wave riders.
Surfing | Main Point
Lahugala National Park Safari
Discover the peaceful wilderness of Lahugala National Park, renowned for impressive elephant gatherings, rich birdlife, scenic forests, and rewarding wildlife encounters away from busy crowds.
Elephants | Safari
SCUBA Diving
Explore Sri Lanka’s colourful coral reefs, fascinating shipwrecks, tropical fish, turtles, and vibrant underwater ecosystems with professional dive instructors for all experience levels.
Coral Reefs | Marine Life
Kumana National Park Safari – Half Day
Experience a rewarding half-day safari through Kumana National Park, searching for leopards, elephants, crocodiles, colourful birdlife, and one of Sri Lanka’s finest wetland ecosystems.
Leopards | Birdlife
Pottuvil Lagoon Safari
Cruise aboard a traditional fishing catamaran through Pottuvil Lagoon’s peaceful mangroves, spotting elephants, crocodiles, kingfishers, sea eagles, and abundant wetland wildlife.
Mangroves | Birdlife
Sri lankan Cookery Lessons
Learn to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes using fresh local ingredients, traditional recipes, and hands-on guidance before enjoying your homemade meal together with fellow travellers.
Authentic Cuisine | Local Family
Self-Drive Car Hire
Explore Sri Lanka independently with a quality self-drive vehicle, enjoying complete travel freedom, flexible itineraries, and the convenience of discovering hidden destinations at your own pace.
Freedom | Self Drive
Bicycle Hire
Hire a quality bicycle and discover Sri Lanka’s quiet villages, scenic countryside, ancient ruins, coastal roads, and hidden attractions comfortably at your own relaxed pace with complete freedom.
Village Roads | Freedom
Tuk Tuk Hire
Experience Sri Lanka like a local by hiring your own tuk tuk, enjoying ultimate freedom, scenic backroads, authentic villages, and unforgettable adventures across the island at your own pace.
Local Adventure | Freedom
Plan Your Journey
You’ve explored the highlights of this destination. Now let us help you get there comfortably, safely, and with complete peace of mind.
Founded in 1979, Cross Country Travels is personally managed by the second generation, continuing a long tradition of introducing visitors to the very best of Sri Lanka. Over the years, we’ve supported internationally recognised wildlife expeditions—including assisting the BBC Planet Earth team—and guests travelling with us have captured underwater photographs later featured by Red Bull, Dive Photo Guide, and the Daily Mail (UK).
Whether you need an airport transfer, a chauffeur-driven tour, or transport between destinations, our Sri Lanka Tourist Board–licensed chauffeurs and modern vehicles ensure every journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself.
Choose your preferred vehicle below and begin your journey to Hambantota.
