History of Surfing in Sri Lanka: How It All Began

Sri Lanka is one of the best surfing destinations in Asia, but it wasn’t always like that. Just a few decades ago, surfing was a rare commodity. So how did this sport conquer the island and turn it into a mecca for wave-riders from all over the world? Let’s dive into the history of Sri Lanka’s surf culture!

The first surfers on the island
Surfing came to Sri Lanka much later than, for example, to Hawaii or Australia. In the 1960s and 70s, the island was known more for its tea plantations and beach holidays than for its waves.

The first to master the Sri Lankan waves were foreign travelers, mostly Australians and Americans, who accidentally discovered the potential of the local spots. At that time, surfboards were a rarity in Sri Lanka, and the first enthusiasts brought them with them.

One of the pioneers of surfing on the island is Tony Hird-Jones, a British expat who began exploring the waves around Hikkaduwa in the 1970s. It was he and other early surfers who “discovered” spots such as Coral Gardens and Runnowell, which are popular with tourists today.

Popularization of surfing among tourists
In the 1990s and 2000s, surfing in Sri Lanka began to gain momentum. This was facilitated by:

✔ Development of tourism — after the end of the civil war in 2009, the country became safer, and travelers flocked to the beaches.

✔ Affordable prices — compared to the Maldives or Bali, surfing in Sri Lanka was (and remains) cheaper.

✔ Ideal conditions for beginners — the gentle waves of Hikkaduwa and Mirissa are great for learning.

The first surf schools began to appear in Hikkaduwa, one of the main surf centers of the island. Local residents, seeing the interest of tourists, began to master this sport and teach it to visitors.

Modern surf communities
Today, surfing in Sri Lanka is not just a sport, but a whole culture.

🌊 Local surfers — many Sri Lankans, especially in coastal towns, are professional surfers, participate in competitions and work as instructors.
🌊 Surf camps and schools — almost every coastal town has several schools offering training for tourists.
🌊 International events — Sri Lanka hosts competitions such as the Sri Lanka Pro and Arugam Bay Surf Contest, attracting athletes from all over the world.

Conclusion
From random waves caught by the first enthusiasts to worldwide recognition, surfing in Sri Lanka has come a long way. Today, the island is in the TOP-10 surfing destinations in Asia, and its popularity is only growing.

Want to feel the spirit of Sri Lankan surfing? Come to our school — we will teach you how to surf and tell you even more interesting stories! 🏄‍♂️