If you’re going surfing in Sri Lanka and looking to surf Ahangama, then I’ve got you covered!

This awesome little surf town is somewhere I’ve spent plenty of time at, with heaps of fun waves and a growing number of restaurants and cafes to enjoy too.

So if you’re planning an Ahangama surf mission – here’s everything you need to know, and why it should be part of your Sri Lanka trip!

 

Ahangama Surf Guide – Everything You Need To Know

Where is Ahangama?

Ahangama is a little fishing village in the South West of Sri Lanka – roughly 2 hours drive to Colombo Airport.

It’s also about 20 minutes in a tuk tuk to the more famous neighbouring surf towns of Midigama and Weligama.

 

 

Ahangama Surf Season

As with the rest of the South West Coast of Sri Lanka, the main surf season in Ahangama runs from October through to May, which also coincides nicely with the dry season too.

Peak season in terms of swell and weather is generally December through to March.

 

 

Ahangama Surf Spots

Kabalana

One of the most famous beaches in Ahangama, Kabalana Beach can suit a huge variety of surfers. As one of the main sandy beaches in the area it’s ideal for those learning to surf, with plenty of white water rollers to practice on.

For more experienced surfers this punchy beach break has plenty of peaks to choose from and can handle a huge variety of swell too.

The Rock

Technically part of Kabalana, The Rock is one of the more advanced surf spots in Sri Lanka and can serve up some big, hollow waves.

Easily recognisable, this A frame peak sits off a big rock formation off of the beach. A favourite when the swell gets pumping, the left is certainly a long, more open ride, but the rights are pretty fun too. 

Due to the smaller take off spot, it can get pretty crowded so be respectful and make sure you can handle what you’re paddling out into.

Sticks

Named after the famous stilt fisherman, Sticks used to be a semi secret spot, but no so much anymore! A peak section to the left of Kabalana it’s serves up both lefts and rights, working in a variety of swell conditions.

The best access point is a set of steps at Open Heart Cafe – make sure you grab a cold beer afterwards too as it’s a great spot to watch the waves from.

Marshmallows

As the name might suggest, Marshmallows is fat, squishy and forgiving!

Popular with those progressing from beginner to intermediate, it’s a deeper reef, accessible from a paddle out to the left of the break. It’s gained a lot of popularity with surf schools for this reason though so it can attract a crowd, especially in the morning.

Also a great option for longboarders and is actually one of my favourite waves in the area.

Even though it’s pretty beginner friendly on most days, when the swell pumps big Marshmallows is definitely left to more experienced surfers and is heaps of fun!
 

 

Animals

A pretty fickle semi reef section to the left of Marshmallows, Animals can produce some really fun, uncrowded waves when it’s working – but it’s more luck than judgement scoring a good session here!

Dreamsea Left

In recent seasons a semi reef peak has started breaking just in front of Dreamsea, and is the perfect place for longboards and mid length – running in a deep channel.

It’s an easy paddle out, but due to the fact it’s right in front of the pool and bar at Dreamsea Surf Camp, it can attract a bit of a crowd.

Gas Stations

Another former, semi secret spot, Gas Stations is the furthest away surf spot from the main town in this guide.

A punchy little reef break, it can offer some fun lefts and shorter rights as well.

On low tide the right hand section of the reef can get super shallow so don’t try and milk it too far down the line, but it’s a great spot for those looking to build up their confidence and experience on a reef break.

One of the few spots that still remains a bit off the main list of spots so you can luck into a chilled solo session sometimes!

Other Surf Spots Nearby

And if you’re surfing in Ahangama you can also venture further a field to a huge variety of spots within an easy tuk tuk ride. Some of which include:

• Lazy Lefts
• Lazy Rights
• Coconuts
• Rams
• Sion
• Weligama Beach
• Hiriketiya

 

 

 

Top Places To Stay

Secret Spot Villa

Full disclosure, this is my villa!

Yup, I loved Ahangama so much I ended up buying a chunk of land back before COVID and have recently built a surf villa there!

With 2 bedroom, A/C throughout and with it’s own pool, this private, open plan villa sleeps 4 is just a short walk away from Kabalana, Sticks and Marshmallows.

And if you’re looking to learn to surf or want to progress your skills we’ve teamed up with the crew at Ticket to Ride to offer their surf coaching packages at a discounted rate too.

Mention that you found the villa on my blog and I’ll hook you up with a deal too!

Click here for more info and to book

 

 

Ticket To Ride Surf House

If you’re looking for some of the best surf coaches in Sri Lanka to improve your surfing with, the Ticket To Ride Surf House is a no brainer. Head coach Nikita used to be on the world tour and all their coaches have years of experience instructing all over the globe – so you’re in great hands.

The Surf House sits right in front of Sticks and they run a set surf camp package starting each Saturday. Choose from triple share or private rooms, all with A/C.

Sunset beers at their rooftop bar (where you can also check the surf from!) is a must!

Click here for more info and to book

 

 

LUSH

Owned by my friend Lil, LUSH is a private, 1 bedroom villa with pool has some stunning paddy views and is perfect if you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle in your own private space.

The alfresco bathtub is the perfect spot to relax and get on island time

Click here for more info and to book

LaPoint Surf Camp

For those looking for party vibes and surf camp packages, La Point is a solid choice.

 Modern A/C room – with options for private or dorms- popular with the Scandinavian crowd expect more than a few cold beers post surf! Full range of surf guiding and coaching is available too. 

Click here for more info and to book

Insight Resort

If you’re looking for a hotel stay, right on the beach, with a pool then Insight is well worth checking out. 

Walking distance from the town and with the waves a stones throw from your front door.

Click here for more info and to book

Camp Poe

A great value option for those on a more limited budget – Camp Poe has awesome vibes and you’ll be well looked after there.

Click here for more info and to book
 

 

Dreamsea

Another awesome beachfront option, Dreamsea has brought their Bali boho vibes across to Sri Lanka.

The do offer some surf camp option out of their private rooms and their garden pool area hosts a range of social and music events throughout the week, including an epic BBQ buffet.

As you might have gathered, Dreamsea Left sits right in front of it too as an awesome bonus!

Click here for more info and to book

PALM Hotel

Ideal for those wanting a more upmarket escape, PALM Hotel offers a range of cabanas, suites and hotel room, all centred around their stunning swimming pool.

Their restaurant and bar is a great place for a bite and a drink too.

Click here for more info and to book

Lighthouse

A boutique hotel option, Lighthouse also has it’s own private beach!

Their rooftop bar has some of the best views in Ahangama too, so it’s ideal for sunset.

Click here for more info and to book

 


Booking.com


 

 

Top Spots To Eat

And of course if you’re surfing in Ahangama you’re going to want a solid feed to keep you fuelled for the next session! Over the last few years plenty of awesome restaurants and cafes have opened up, so there’s a huge range of local and international options on offer.

Some of my favourites include:

The Kip

Great little hipster restaurants nestled amongst plenty of palm trees and a great spot for a date night or late lunch.

White Rabbit

A solid beachfront option with stunning ocean views and a wide variety of food options on offer. 

Dreamsea

Great range of food options, from full meals to post surf snacks and smoothies. They do an awesome weekly BBQ too.

Cafe Ceylon

Just off of Kabalan Beach they serve everything from shawarma and seafood through to burgers and fresh tuna

Crust

Some of the best pizza you can get in the area and great ocean front vibes too.

Lamana

Great spot for plenty of awesome vibes – they serve up some tasty food and it even has its own skate bowl too!

Soul & Surf

Down towards Gas Stations they have a pretty epic menu, with solid portions. Situated near Gas Stations, they also have weekly live music events too.

Sticks Cafe (formely Open Heart Cafe)

Super friendly local restaurant right in front of Sticks surf spot. Good variety of food options at budget prices and the perfect place for a post surf, sunset beer.

Elita

A newly opened option for the 2023/24 season, enjoy ocean front views, great service and a range of smoothie bowls, salad bowls and tasty treats for a great price.

Sagara Restaurant

Another incredible local option next to Open Heart Cafe. Tuck into some epic curries at bargain prices – but with a million dollar view!

 

Have you already been on an Ahangama surf trip?

Anything other awesome things you’d like to share – add them in the comments!