East coast
Arugam Bay
The island's surf town
Arugam Bay is known around the world for its long right-hand point break, but there are gentle spots for beginners too. Life runs at beach pace, and the town is full of small, low-cost places to stay and eat. Kumana National Park and the lagoon at Pottuvil are good for wildlife. It is a long way from the airport, so give it a few nights.
Arugam Bay
- Part of the island
- East coast
- Suggested stay
- 3 nights
- Best months
- May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
- Things to do
- Ask us
Weather
When to go
Sri Lanka has two monsoons, so the best months depend on the coast. This is the pattern here.
- Jan: expect rain
- Feb: expect rain
- Mar: expect rain
- Apr: good
- May: best
- Jun: best
- Jul: best
- Aug: best
- Sep: best
- Oct: good
- Nov: expect rain
- Dec: expect rain
Stays
Where to stay
Prices per night for two people sharing, for dates about six weeks away. Yours may differ.
Budget
Clean, simple guesthouses and small hotels
Sunrise Cabanas Arugam Bay
$21Cabanas with garden views, spa, bar and restaurant.
Air conditioning · Wi-Fi · Restaurant · Views
Lucky Bay
$31Air-conditioned rooms with garden and terrace.
Air conditioning · Wi-Fi · Parking
Comfort
Mid-range hotels, often with a pool
Bay Dreams Beach Hotel & Surf Camp
$43Hotel with pool, restaurant and bar in Arugam Bay.
Pool · Air conditioning · Wi-Fi · Restaurant
The Spice Trail
$57Hotel with garden, pool, restaurant and bar.
Pool · Air conditioning · Wi-Fi · Restaurant
Superior
The nicest stays that still keep costs sensible
Cozy Sand Beach Hotel
$111Beach hotel in Arugam Bay.