The Surf Window

Unawatuna

Southern Province, Sri Lanka

Beach breakBeginner

A sheltered, crescent-shaped bay near Galle on Sri Lanka's south coast, Unawatuna is better known as a snorkelling and swimming destination but has gentle learner waves in a postcard-perfect tropical setting.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalSSW (195°)
WindowSSE–WSW (150°–240°)
Size4-8ft

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

Any

LowMidHigh

Season

March–October

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Very gentle, slow beach break, protected by the bay geometry

Length

15–40m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner
  • •Why: The bay has maximum protection from ocean swell, great for absolute beginners in truly safe conditions.

Hazards

  • •Boat traffic in the bay
  • •Jellyfish in warmer months
  • •Very shallow water over the sandy bottom

Local Tips

  • •Unawatuna is primarily a beach holiday destination, for real surfing, move east to Weligama or Midigama.
  • •The town of Galle (3km west) is a UNESCO World Heritage fortress city and one of Sri Lanka's most captivating cultural sites.

Location

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

6.0082, 80.2444