Sri Lanka’s most celebrated surf destination, Arugam Bay sits on the east coast and delivers long, consistent point break waves from May through October that have given it cult status among serious surfers for decades. Outside of surf season the bay empties to reveal a quieter, more contemplative version of itself, with empty beaches, good food, and an unhurried pace harder to find on the more visited west coast. Kumana National Park nearby adds elephant and birdlife sightings for those who want them.