Surfers discovered the potential of Sri Lanka long ago
Nearly ten years after its civil war ended, Sri Lanka is completely recovered . even surpassed the tsunami that hit the Asian coast in 2004, and seriously affected the south and east of the island. Also, since the 1990s, the country has been improving the transportation development , and today it is an easy destination to explore.
The train like half a star and sure to tour their lands; emerging businesses adapted to sightseeing Foreign; fauna wild; hiking through sacred mountains; surf; yoga; different cultures and religions... all these factors contribute to the attractiveness of Sri Lanka, and will make you not only visit, but repeat.
THE COUNTRY OF A THOUSAND NAMES
Lanka, Ceylon or Serendib are some of the many names given to what is now known as Sri Lanka, a name born in 1972 and what does it mean “shining island” . As a curiosity, "Serendib" is one of the oldest names, as it was used during the colonization of the Arabs and Persians.
Getting to these beaches is indeed a serendipity
Have you ever heard the expression " serendipity ”? Its origin comes from this Arabic-Persian word, and was created by the writer Horace Walpole in the 18th century. Its meaning: “an unexpected luck or nice coincidence ”.
SURFING AND PRACTICING YOGA IN THE SOUTH OF SRI LANKA
Though balinese It is considered the cradle of surfing and yoga in Asia, the mass of tourists, the rise in prices and the exploitation of foreign businesses has caused the doors to open to new Asian destinations such as Sri Lanka. In fact, many say that it is “**like Bali 20 years ago**”, and that is what makes it such a special experience.
the south promises waves for all levels, and more and more places are focusing on this type of tourism. Thus, in recent years, the coast has changed radically with new openings of surf camps, yoga centers and shops and cafes with more European food , which are inspired by Balinese and Australian design.
The good life in old Ceylon
Traveling in the south won't take long as distances are relatively short and train or tuk-tuk rides make getting around easier. Therefore, if what you are looking for is sun and beach and you only have one week or around ten days to travel, we propose this route, perfect to enjoy the sea, good food, the party and corners full of palm trees and sunsets to remember
MADIHA
Madiha is the area that gives its name to one of the lesser known waves , perfect for levels intermediate and advanced. Getting up to see the sunrise from the water is one of the greatest pleasures you can experience in this quiet coastal area.
Of course, after a long surf session, you need a good breakfast to get your strength back and Meraki It is one of the cafes that will make you fall in love with its food and its cozy Balinese-style environment. recommended for traveling couples who want to stay one night and practice yoga surrounded by nature.
Meraki, for traveling couples
To pass the suffocating heat, there is no better place than The Doctor's House , one of the most Famous from all over the South, known for its parties with live music , sea views, good atmosphere and a large garden full of sofas to relax. Its owners, two Australian friends, knew how to choose the perfect place.
The bar maintains the authenticity of the structure in this old building which was a hospital 200 years ago, and which survived the tsunami of 2004. Now, it has become one of Sri Lanka's successful businesses for all tastes, in a quiet area and with a local flavor.
MIRISSA
Mirissa is the busiest party area. At sunset, the beach bars start with their light show , and the music fills the coast with a good atmosphere. Additionally, Mirissa is known for her jewelry stores : Gems such as sapphire, ruby and topaz are highly demanded among tourists, as prices are much higher cheap than in Europe. Just hit the main street for shopping and a delicious smoothie bowl at Shady Lane.
Also come to Mirissa beach. There you will find one of the surf spots most photographed of all country. waves for all levels and a confidence training for surfers who want to start practicing on the reef. At sunset, take a beer and enjoy the views in Coconut Tree Hill , a small hillside full of palm trees that is becoming one of the most Instagrammable places on the island.
WELIGAMA
Weligama Bay is without a doubt the most touristic place from all over the south. More and more businesses are betting on this coastal area, famous for its waves suitable for beginners and intermediate levels . Enjoy the views from the top of the terrace of Hangtime Hostel and stop by to eat by the successful Nomad Cafe , a vegan restaurant run by a Spanish woman.
Another good option is to dine at Ceylon Sliders and enjoy the sunset with views of the small islet in the bay. This business Swedish It is perhaps one of the best known and trendy in all of Sri Lanka. Its food, the beautiful rooms, its fashion store and. usually. his careful style, place him among the first places from the list of places to visit.
Room with a view at Ceylon Sliders
MIDIRANGE
Midigama is one of the areas that concentrates a greater number of surf spots for levels intermediate and advanced. It is certainly the quintessential surfing area and also the most local. Few foreign businesses , but not for that reason of lower quality.
BluePotch , in front of rams (one of the most complicated waves due to its tubes and dangerous due to the shallow reef), it is the perfect restaurant to eat its popular tacos while watching the surfers. Of course, be patient with the employees: they barely speak English, and many times you will have no choice but to accept the dish they bring you (especially if you are hungry). manike is also a good option. Located right next to Blue Porch, this small local restaurant run by a nice family has the best Sinhalese-style banana pancakes.
If you want good atmosphere, Surfing Wombats it's your place The owners of the hostel are two young girls who have managed to run a successful business in a country where the woman stands in the background . It is famous for its cuisine italian , and above all, for its pizza , the best in the south! They also offer classes yoga daily on the roof overlooking the palm grove.
Sion Surf Camp It is another of the places most frequented by surfers. Located in front of a beautiful reef surf spot, it is the best place to enjoy a beer with your friends after a session in the water. On Fridays they organize the best party in the area, with live music and dj.
Traditional fishing continues in Midigama
AHANGAMA
Although the main street is very noisy, Ahangama hides two of the surfcamps with the most class Sri Lankan. Sunshine Stories It started as a travel blog, but this Swedish couple fell in love with the country and decided to create this retreat focused on good food, surfing and yoga.
Also, you will find dreamsea , an incredible place facing the sea, with a swimming pool and dream rooms. Run by Spaniards, this surfcamp has just opened in Sri Lanka after its success in balinese . A must stop to relax and swing on your palm tree on the beach!
TheKip It is one of those places that will make you fall in love. One hundred percent Italian coffee and food that seems to come out of a frame . It is located further inland, in a quiet area with a beautiful garden where the small restaurant blends in perfectly with the nature.
Camp Poe is another surf and yoga retreat, and what sets it apart from the others is that it carries out activities such as paddle surfing in the river and sup yoga during full moon . Here you will have many adventures to choose from during your stay in the south. A most complete surfcamp!
The Mana means “sister”, and that is what makes this restaurant and guesthouse a familiar and close environment. It is located right in front of the beach and has a huge yard , ideal for relaxing and having one of those delicious juices that they prepare with so much sweetie.
The owners are three spanish who radically changed their lives and opened this place in December 2018. If you miss the atmosphere of your country, you will find many other traveling Spaniards here. A meeting place to share stories all types.
UNAWATUNA
It is one of the most tourist of the south and of the few interesting places to go shopping . the traffic is chaotic but there are thousands of options for restaurants and cafes a little further away from the noise. If you are tired of coffee the area. treat yourself to breakfast at skinny toms , A mixture between local and australian food with delicious coffee. You can also dine at Koha Surf Cafe , a lovely local restaurant with more european . Likewise, Hello It has delicious smoothie bowls and a small store where you can buy coconut bowls and other ecological objects.
A must visit: the Japanese Peace Pagoda , a Buddhist temple on top of a hill overlooking the bay of Dewata . It is perhaps one of the best sunsets of the area. Remember to bring a pareo to cover your legs, and if you want to take a photo in the temple, never turn your back to the Buddha statues.
Delaware Beach is another very nice tourist beach, with infinite swings hanging from palm trees and a stone which has become the most popular photo of Sri Lanka. Take a walk on the sand and have dinner at wijaya , a restaurant on the beach with good seafood and delicious pizzas.
The Japanese Peace Pagoda, an obligatory stop
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO SRI LANKA?
If you want to travel to Sri Lanka you have to take into account, as in all tropical climates, the rainy season . For travel around the South and West Coast, the best dates are from October to mid-April, while the season in the east starts from about from May to September.
The same goes for the waves . If your vacation coincides with the European autumn-winter, the best option is to visit the south of the island. The rest of the year it is advisable to go to the area of Arugam Bay, another paradise east of Sri Lanka.
To travel through the south prepare summer clothes, good sandals to walk, swimsuits and lots of sunscreen. The temperature ranges between 28 and 32 degrees , although the humidity makes the thermal sensation much greater. Despite the heat, always remember to carry a pareo or similar to cover your legs and not miss the opportunity to visit its beautiful temples, one of the many charms of this irresistible and still uncrowded country. Definitely, now It is the best time to discover it.
The island of Taprobane, in Weligama