The Surf Window

Mirissa

Southern Province, Sri Lanka

Reef breakIntermediate

Sri Lanka's whale watching capital on the south coast also delivers consistent beach break on a beautiful crescent beach, where southern right whales, blue whales, and surf coexist in one of the world's most extraordinary ocean environments.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalSSW (195°)
WindowSSE–WSW (150°–240°)
Size–S 1.5–2.5m at 10–14s

Wind

NE

Light to N under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Nov–Apr

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Multiple peaks along the crescent beach

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Consistent, warm water beach break in a beautiful, accessible setting

Hazards

  • •Rip currents on the west end of the bay
  • •Whale watching boats offshore, stay clear of their routes
  • •Can get crowded, one of the south coast's most popular beaches

Local Tips

  • •Blue whale watching season is November–April, coincides perfectly with surf season
  • •The coconut tree on the small island at the east end of the bay is one of Sri Lanka's most photographed spots
  • •Parrot Rock in the bay creates a natural wave focusing effect on the east peak

Location

Map showing the location of Mirissa in Southern Province, Sri Lanka

5.9567, 80.4735