SRI LANKA
WATER ADVENTURE SEEKERS
Off the Beaten Path Itineraries
Play in the Indian Ocean for Water Adventures
Sri Lanka's pristine coastline offers an array of water sports, making it a popular destination for thrill-seekers and water enthusiasts. From surfing to kiteboarding, the island has something for everyone looking to get some sun and connect with the Indian Ocean. Not many first-time visitors realise that the international airport is situated in Negombo, which is 25km away from the capital city of Colombo. We recommend you to skip the hustle bustle of Colombo and start your trip on the north West Coast, in a beautiful and peaceful village called Kappalady!
Wind Blend Kite Resort which is a sustainable nature resort offers you private & family cabanas, lagoon beach front cabanas, restaurant, yoga shala and swimming pool. You have access to both a cute lagoon and the majestic ocean in this resort!
Secret Spot: Kitesurfing at Kappalady Lagoon: When Kitesurfing enthusiasts think of Sri Lanka, they often think of Kalpitiya. Being well known, means it is also equally crowded. Instead we recommend you the secret spot of Kappalady Lagoon. With its shallow lagoon and side-on winds, it's the perfect spot to learn or level up your kiteboarding skills. And it is relatively less crowded. Shhh do not spread the word! See kappalady kiting stories here
A 5 hour drive across the country from Kappalady on the West Coast is Trincomalee on the East Coast. Not a very famous tourist destination, Trincomalee offers diving and snorkeling opportunities, with colorful coral reefs and a variety of marine life. From here a 5 hour coastal road drive will take you to Arugam Bay on the south east coast
When people think of surfing in Sri Lanka, they think of the southern beaches like Mirrissa, Weligama and Hikkaduwa. These are great surfing spots but very busy. We recommend you to go to Arugam Bay instead, with its cool and laid back vibes. Apart from world-class surfing spots you can also watch wild elephants during sunset and enjoy some yoga and modern restaurants. A 6 hour drive will take you back to the international airport
Where to Stay: Choose from beachfront guesthouses, cute home stays (great way to interact with locals), surf camps, or boutique hotels offering easy access to the surf breaks.
Travel Tip: The best season for kiting in Kappalady and surfing in Arugam bay is during May to October. The distances between the 3 locations we recommended are quite a long drive. You can cover them with local taxi or alternatively stop mid way if you have more time on hand.