5 Best Surf Camps For Beginners Sri Lanka 2025/2026 | Start Your Surf Journey

Start Your Surf Journey At The Best Surf Camps For Beginners Sri Lanka

  • Stay Close To Beautiful Sandy Beaches

  • Learn Surfing In Warm Tropical Waters

  • Relax With Healthy Food And Yoga

  • Meet Travelers From Around The World

  • Enjoy Safe And Beginner-Friendly Waves

  • Fun, Social Environment For Travelers

If you have always dreamed of riding your first wave in paradise, the best surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka make it possible.

With warm water, soft sandy beaches, and easy waves, it is the perfect place to learn. The camps are designed to help first-time surfers feel safe and progress quickly.

This guide is about the best surf camps for beginners in Sri Lanka and will show you where to find quality lessons, friendly hosts, and the right setting to build your skills.

For more tips and detailed guides, explore our surf pages for Arugam Bay, Hiriketiya, Hikkaduwa, and Weligama to help you plan the perfect Sri Lanka surfing trip.

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Video by Eric Coppola, originally published on YouTube. Follow Eric Coppola on Instagram @ericoppola for more!

In This Guide

Why Choose A Sri Lanka Surf Camp?

The surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka give you everything needed to start surfing with confidence.

These camps provide daily surf lessons, equipment, and accommodation close to the ocean, so you are always just steps from the waves.

Instructors know how to guide beginners through the basics, making it simple to progress from standing on your first wave to practicing turns.

All of the surf camps in this blog are located in the south of Sri Lanka. This region has gentle sandy-bottom breaks that are perfect for learning.

The best time to go is from November to April when the water is calm, the weather is sunny, and waves are consistent for beginners. Choosing this season ensures safe conditions and a fun learning experience.

4-Day, 8-Day or 11-Day Beginner Surf & Yoga Camp In Hiriketiya With The Salty Pelican

Tucked away in the laid-back bay of Hiriketiya, The Salty Pelican offers one of the best surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka has to enjoy.

This retreat blends surfing, yoga, and wellness in a calm tropical setting, making it easy to balance wave sessions with mindful practice.

With a jungle yoga shala, poolside lounge, and relaxed beachfront vibe, it feels like the perfect place to recharge and connect with both the ocean and yourself. You can join for 4-days, 8-days, or even 11-days depending on how long you want to stay in the flow.

Each stay includes daily yoga classes, a surf lesson, and full use of a board for three days, giving you the chance to ride Hiriketiya’s gentle waves at your own pace.

Meditation is woven into the yoga sessions, and a 50-minute massage is part of the package, adding a layer of calm after time in the water. 

Accommodation at The Salty Pelican Surf Camp In Hiriketiya Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Salty Pelican
Inside and bed of the Salty Pelican Surf Camp in Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Salty Pelican
People learning how to surf on the sand at The Salty Pelican surf camp in Hiriketiya Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Salty Pelican
Students doing yoga at the Salty Pelican in Hiriketiya Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Salty Pelican

The Salty Pelican also delivers on comfort and style. Rooms are bright and boho-inspired, with ensuite bathrooms and plenty of space to relax.

The poolside restaurant serves fresh tropical meals, while optional group dinners bring people together a few nights each week. Between surf and yoga, guests often explore Hiriketiya, head out on a safari, or simply take it slow by the pool.

It is one of the top surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka travelers will find, offering both community and quiet moments in balance.

Book your 4-day surf and yoga retreat at The Salty Pelican today, or extend your stay with the 8-day retreat or 11-day retreat options, and discover why this is among the best surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka has to offer.

Accommodation and pool of the Salty Pelican in Hiriketiya Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Salty Pelican
drone shot of the accommodation of The Salty Pelican surf camp in Hiriketiya Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Salty Pelican

8-Day Beginner Surf & Yoga Camp In Ahangama With Global Surf Lodge Kabalana

Continuing with another great option, Global Surf Lodge Kabalana gives travelers an easy way to enjoy one of the top surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka has to offer.

Located right by the beach in Ahangama, this lodge combines surfing, yoga, and community living into one smooth package.

The 8-day program is made for people who want to focus on learning to surf while also having a relaxing holiday in a friendly setting.

The surf schedule is run by certified coaches who work with small groups, so every guest gets personal guidance.

Across the week you will have six surf sessions, theory lessons, and even video feedback. Unlimited board use is also part of the deal, giving you plenty of time to practice between classes.

Drone view of the accommodation and pool at Global Surf Lodge Kabalana in Sri Lanka
Image Credit: Global Surf Lodge Kabalana
accommodation with beds and upstairs area at Global Surf Lodge Kabalana Surf Camp
Image Credit: Global Surf Lodge Kabalana
A learner surfer at sunset standing on a wave at Global Surf Lodge Kabalana Surf Camp
Image Credit: Global Surf Lodge Kabalana
learner surfers listening to instructor on the beach at Global Surf Lodge Kabalana Surf Camp
Image Credit: Global Surf Lodge Kabalana

Yoga is included each day in the open air shala, offering the perfect way to stretch and stay fresh after hours in the sea. The camp also adds in an ice bath and a cultural or nature excursion once a week, making the whole trip feel more rounded.

Together these extras bring a balance of activity and recovery that makes the camp more than just surf lessons.

You will stay in either dorms or private rooms set inside a tropical garden with a pool, lounge areas, and a lively restaurant.

Breakfast is served every day and five dinners are included, leaving two evenings open to discover local cafés and restaurants. The meals are a mix of Sri Lankan and western dishes, prepared fresh by the kitchen team.

With everything included, Global Surf Lodge Kabalana is one of the best surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka offers, giving you an easy way to enjoy both surf and wellness.

Book your spot now for the 8 Day Surf and Yoga Camp at Global Surf Lodge Kabalana and spend a full week enjoying waves, yoga, and delicious food by the ocean.

Accommodation at Global Surf Lodge Kabalana surf camp in Sri Lanka
Image Credit: Global Surf Lodge Kabalana
accommodation with pool and sun beds at Global Surf Lodge Kabalana Surf Camp
Image Credit: Global Surf Lodge Kabalana

6-Day, 8-Day, 11-Day or 15-Day Beginner Surf & Yoga Camp In Mirissa With Surf & Yoga Mirissa

Adding to the list of top options, Surf & Yoga Mirissa is a retreat that blends everything into one easy package. This surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka offers, with surfing, yoga, meals, and cozy stays all wrapped together.

Sitting on the south coast near the beach, the lodge gives you the chance to fully switch off and focus on waves and wellness.

Stays can be booked for 6-days, 8-days, 11-days, or 15-days, so you can choose the pace that suits you.

The surf side of the camp is built around small group lessons with patient instructors who know the area well. New surfers start in mellow beach breaks where progress comes quickly.

Every stay includes structured coaching plus supervised free surf, so you get both guidance and independence in the water. Yoga is woven into daily life here.

Classes run in a jungle shala or sometimes on hills at sunset, giving a peaceful setting for stretching and recovery.

People sitting by the pool at Surf & Yoga Mirissa surf retreat
Image Credit: Surf & Yoga Mirissa
people doing yoga on the grass with Palm trees at Surf & Yoga Mirissa surf retreat
Image Credit: Surf & Yoga Mirissa
a learner surer standing up on a wave at Surf & Yoga Mirissa surf retreat
Image Credit: Surf & Yoga Mirissa
accommodation of bed with mosquito net at Surf & Yoga Mirissa surf retreat
Image Credit: Surf & Yoga Mirissa

Rooms are scattered around a tropical garden with a pool, lounge spots, and a café for downtime. You can pick from private cottages, shared spaces, or air conditioned rooms.

Food is included too, with three meals a day based on fresh Sri Lankan produce and healthy recipes.

When you are not in the water or on the mat, you can explore Mirissa’s whale watching, tea plantations, Ayurvedic spas, or simply enjoy music by the beach.

Book your stay at Surf & Yoga Mirissa for 6-days, 8-days, 11-days, or 15-days and experience one of the best surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka with waves, yoga, and all meals included.

Bowl of food with almonds and muesli at Surf & Yoga Mirissa surf retreat
Image Credit: Surf & Yoga Mirissa
A person in a yoga pose with palm trees at Surf & Yoga Mirissa surf retreat
Image Credit: Surf & Yoga Mirissa

8-Day Beginner Surf & Yoga Camp In Weligama With The Surfer Weligama

Continuing with another strong option, the 8-day program at The Surfer Weligama in Weligama as the name suggests, is designed for those who want surfing, yoga, and a lively community all in one place.

Sitting right in front of a gentle break, the camp makes it simple to step out of your room and straight into the ocean. Everything is set up so you can focus on learning, relaxing, and enjoying your time by the beach.

The package includes six surf lessons or guiding sessions with skilled local coaches, plus theory classes and free use of boards during your time in the water.

Beginners are supported from their first paddle. Two yoga sessions are also part of the stay, giving you time to stretch, recover, and build balance between surf sessions.

Breakfast is served each day and six dinners are included, leaving lunch and drinks open for you to explore Weligama’s cafés and restaurants.

Sun beds and pool at The Surfer Weligama surf camp
Image Credit: The Surfer Weligama
Drone shot of people practicing yoga on the roof top at The Surfer Weligama Surf Camp
Image Credit: The Surfer Weligama
A surfer learning how to surf with The Surfer Weligama Surf Camp
Image Credit: The Surfer Weligama
Accommodation and bed at The Surfer Weligama Surf Camp
Image Credit: The Surfer Weligama

Guests can choose between two styles of accommodation. The Beach Camp is right on the sand with a rooftop restaurant and pool, while TS2 Camp is just a short walk away but still linked to all lessons and activities.

Both options have private bathrooms, balconies, and Wi-Fi, with upgrades available for sea views or air conditioning. Social evenings, rooftop hangouts, and poolside downtime make it easy to connect with fellow travelers.

With surfing, yoga, good food, and a relaxed setting, The Surfer Weligama has everything that makes it one of the best surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka offers.

The mix of training, social life, and comfort ensures you get the most from your time by the sea.

Secure your spot now for the 8-Day Surf and Yoga Camp at The Surfer Weligama and discover why it is among the best surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka.

A group of people playing beer pong at The Surfer Weligama surf camp
Image Credit: The Surfer Weligama
Sun beds and pool at The Surfer Weligama Surf Camp
Image Credit: The Surfer Weligama

8-Day Beginner Surf & Yoga Camp In Weligama With The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp

To finish the list off, The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp also in Weligama is a beachfront retreat that captures the easy rhythm of coastal life.

Sitting right in front of the main surf break, it gives you direct access to the waves while also offering a calm base for yoga, rest, and poolside afternoons.

The 8-day package is planned for travelers who want surf coaching combined with a relaxed setting by the ocean.

Over five days, guests take part in ten surf lessons with professional instructors who adjust the program to each level. Beginners start small, practicing in friendly green waves until confidence grows.

The schedule also includes guided free surf, surf theory, and daily yoga classes. Stretching, breathing, and meditation help balance the physical side of surfing with mindful recovery.

Together, this makes it one of the best surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka offers for those looking to progress steadily.

Accommodation and beach view with palm trees at The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp
Accommodation and beds at The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp
Image Credit: The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp
Image Credit: The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp
Three girls in the pool The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp

Accommodation is found in a tropical garden with private cabanas or upgraded rooms in the main house.

The pool, café, and yoga deck provide plenty of space to relax, while shared areas create a friendly community vibe.

Meals are included, with breakfast served daily and five dinners during the week, one being a barbecue night. Lunch and drinks are not provided, which leaves space to sample local cafés around Weligama.

Blending surfing, yoga, good food, and a social atmosphere, The Green Rooms offers the balance many travelers are looking for. It stands out as one of the best surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka because of its attention to both progression and comfort.

Book your place at The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp for an 8-day surf and yoga stay and enjoy a full week of waves, wellness, and beachside living.

a girl doing a yoga pose at The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp
Group of people hanging around at The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp Sri Lanka
Image Credit: The Green Rooms Surf and Yoga Camp

Planning Tips & Travel Resources

  • Booking & Packages

Surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka usually include lessons, equipment, meals, and accommodation. Platforms like Tripaneer let you compare packages easily.

  • When To Go

The south coast is ideal from November to April. This season offers sunny days, warm water, and gentle waves, making it perfect for learning.
Note: All surf camps featured in this guide are located in the south coast of Sri Lanka.

  • What To Pack

Bring reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard, swimwear, and light clothes. Camps provide surfboards and gear, so packing is simple.

  • Connectivity

Stay connected with an eSIM from providers like Yesim or Drimsim. They offer affordable data so you can check surf forecasts and stay in touch with loved ones back home.

  • Airport Transfers

Before you book, check if your surf camp offers an airport pickup service from Colombo, as many do. If not, services like HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups make transfers to the south coast simple and stress free.

  • Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential when surfing abroad. VisitorsCoverage offers tailored plans that include adventure sports and gear protection, giving you peace of mind during your Sri Lanka surf holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Most surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka packages include daily surf lessons, surfboard rental, accommodation, and meals. Some add yoga, airport transfers, and cultural trips.

The idea is to make the learning experience stress-free so you can focus only on improving your surfing.

Yes, the surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka are designed for new surfers. The beaches have sandy bottoms and gentle waves, making them safe to practice.

Instructors guide you step by step to keep you comfortable and confident in the water.

Prices for surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka vary depending on location and extras included. On average, a week-long camp costs between $300 to $600.

Budget-friendly options include shared rooms and meals, while higher-priced camps offer private rooms, yoga, and other activities.

Yes, the best surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka provide surfboards, leashes, and often rash guards. This means you can travel light and avoid carrying bulky gear.

Everything you need to start learning is included in the package.

The south coast is best from November to April. During these months, the waves are smaller and consistent, making them ideal for beginners.

This is also the dry season, so you get warm water and plenty of sunny surf days.

Yes, surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka are very welcoming to solo travelers. With group lessons, shared meals, and evening activities, it is easy to make friends.

Many travelers come alone and leave with lifelong connections.

Many surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka add yoga to their programs. Yoga helps improve balance, strength, and focus, which are all important for surfing.

It also gives you time to relax after surf sessions.

Yes, most surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka include meals. You can expect fresh, local food with vegetarian or vegan options at many camps.

Some also give you the freedom to try local restaurants nearby.

A week is the ideal length at surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka. Seven days gives you enough time to learn, build confidence, and see progress.

Shorter stays are possible, but a full week makes the experience much more rewarding.

Yes, some surf camps for beginners Sri Lanka welcome families with kids. They often have special lessons designed for younger surfers with extra safety and fun teaching methods.

Always check with the camp before booking.