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Surfing is somewhat of a speciality in Tangalle. Ideal for beginners, many surf camps have set up in the area due to the beach break that creates gentle waves. Tangalle is well situated between rocks and a hill, meaning the waves are hardly affected by onshore winds that might usually dampen the mood.

Talalla bay is a beautiful, sheltered crescent shaped cove, fringed by palms and about 2 kilometers long. Close by is the town of Tangalle. Beginners can learn on the sand bottomed beach break and there is a small reef rear a cafe. Waves are low power fun but close out quickly, still you can get about 150m white water rides.

Weligama has good waves all year round and is another favourite for beginners and intermediate surfers. The main beach has a row of surfing schools with plenty of boards for rent, but it does sometimes suffer from pollution. The waves are usually easy to learn on and can get a bit bigger for intermediate level surfers.

Dewata, south of Galle, has turned into a surfing hotspot over the past five or so years. While not the most scenic of local beaches, with small but reliable waves it attracts those looking to perfect their technique on year-round easy surf. The sand reef and regular (if small- to medium-size) waves make it one of the best spots to learn in Sri Lanka, while also providing plenty of fun for the adept.

n along an exposed stretch of the Sri Lankan coast to the south-east of Matara City, SK Town is a little conglomeration of surf shacks and beach hotels that faces the open ocean. Lanky coconut palms sway overhead and a few dirt tracks lead to the shoreline. Welcome to one of the region’s most hidden surf spots.

On the southwest coast of the island, about 120km (75m) south of Colombo and just 20km (12mi) from Galle, is the famous party town of Hikkaduwa. Once just a surfing village, it’s now popular with surfers and partygoers alike – there is always something happening here.

This is another hit among wave riders and is in many ways the perfect family surfing destination. The nightlife is not hectic, like it is in Hikkaduwa, but the waves are great. The swell on the beach is not always perfect, but just ask the locals for alternatives. If you’re a beginner, try Unawatuna Beach Break. Bonavista Bay is also a good learner’s wave.

Intermediate and beginner surfers have plenty of space to practise their moves at this south Sri Lankan spot, famous for its fishermen on stilts. The best conditions are in the winter, but continuous breaks are not guaranteed at Koggala itself.