Get us in your inbox

Search
  1. The beach at Whisky Point
    © BT Images
  2. The beach at Whisky Point
    © BT Images
  3. The beach at Whisky Point
    © BT Images
  4. The beach at Whisky Point
    © BT Images
  5. The ultimate surfing spot
    © BT Images
  6. The ultimate surfing spot
    © BT Images
  7. The ultimate surfing spot
    © BT Images
  8. The ultimate surfing spot
    © BT Images

Surf’s up at Whisky Point

Head to the East coast, to have fun or to just kick back and relax!

Written by
Time Out editors
Advertising

Situated in Urani, a bit away from the surfer’s haven of Arugam Bay, Whisky Point is an ‘off-the-beaten-track’ spot for novice surfers. But don’t be discouraged if you are a pro, as the waves here provide ultimate fun for any surfer. And also, don’t lose hope if you are not a surfer, because there are much to see and do here such as wallowing in the cool waters and exploring the surrounding terrain.

Surfing is definitely the highlight of Whisky Point, and as mentioned it is great for beginners of the sport. The waves break off a rocky outcrop near the beach, creating perfect surfing conditions. It is also said that the swell can vary from 1–4 metres depending on the direction. This is where surfers can test their skills, as the waves take you towards the beach and you feel the adrenaline rushing through your veins. What’s more, if you are an expert and seek the thrill of a much more challenging wave, Pottuvil Point or the longest point break in Sri Lanka is just a short distance away.

Not a surfer? Not to worry. It is also a decent place for sea bathing and especially long walks along the sandy beach. The sunrises here are absolutely amazing and the entire area wakes up, embracing the warmth of the golden sunrays. You can even opt to explore the village through which the road to Whisky Point falls. The villagers are friendly and will be obliged to help out and recommend places to see around Arugam Bay or close by.

As dusk sets in, party lovers can unwind and dance the night away at one of the party spots. Or if you are more into chilling out, leisurely sip a cool drink, drinking in the beauty of the surrounding while you relax at the verandah of your hut. A haven for seafood, the food here is great and there are many varieties of fresh seafood to indulge in.

Here are a few other places that you can visit while in Whisky Point. And Remember, when you are planning your trip to Whisky Point, make sure to spend a few days getting to know all these awesome places.

  • Travel
  • Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is famous for its surfing points that attract surfers from around the world. Many of them make Arugam Bay their home during the surfing period, which is from April to October. Arugam Bay Point, which is at the tip of the bay is considered to be an advanced point, where the waves can rise to a height of five to ten metres depending on the swell and oceanic conditions. As such Arugam Bay point is a haven for experienced surfers.    The actual ‘bay’ of Arugam Bay is peppered with small cosy hotels. One area of the beach is full of fishing boats as that is the livelihood of the coastal area, but this does not disturb the surfers.   

  • Attractions
  • Arugam Bay

A little way from the South of Arugam Bay, you will come to an endearing little village called Panama. The unspoilt rural neighbourhood is full of life and tradition that is rare in the modern Sri Lanka. The way of life of the occupiers of Panama still holds traces dating back hundreds of years and it is still being passed on to the next generation. The distinctive village is encircled by farming lands, paddy fields and greenery. The community living in harmony with the natural beauty of Sri Lanka only holds within it 5000 families across the Panama—the only village known to be comprised purely on sinhalese citizens, in the east.

Advertising
  • Travel
  • Hambantota

Kumana is well known for its wildlife and more so for its migratory and indigenous bird population. Sightings of changeable hawk eagles, painted and rare black necked storks, egrets, godwits, ibis and many more are possible by the many lagoons, and reflected in eyes of curious, wandering jackals.  While on safari, watch out for the elephants, spotted, and sambhur deer. They too are quite active around watering holes like the Kumana Villu swamp, and in pockets of lush foliage. Kumana is situated in the eastern district of Ampara and is 12km south of Arugam Bay. There is a turn off just before the town of Panama, which leads to the National Park. 

Recommended
    You may also like
    You may also like
    Advertising