Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is Sri Lanka's most popular surf spot and one of the best in Asia. There are many points, e.g. Main Point and Baby Point in Arugam Bay, Crocodile Rock (aka Elephant Rock), Panama, Okanda and Peanut Farm in the south, and Pottuvil Main Point in the north. (Whisky point has been out of action since 2019). Crocodile Rock is mainly used by beginners from sunrise on. Boards can be rented virtually everywhere, tuktuks are readily available to transport surfer and board to the points nearby.

Several tour agencies (such as Arugambay Tours or We Joint Tours, who have their offices along the main road) offer tuk tuk safaris. They will drive towards Kumana (formerly known as Yala East) National Park, but not into the boundaries of the park. Along the street down to Panama and further on into the park you might spot monkeys, elephants, crocodiles and many other animals. As with any game drive, spotting animals is based on luck, the season, time of the day, etc.

Several tour agencies (such as Arugambay Tours, We Joint Tours and others) offer Jeep Safaris into Kumana (formerly known as Yala East) National Park. The price includes the entry to the park and the drive. There are morning tours (starting at 05:00-06:00) as well as afternoon ones (13:00) which each take 6 hours. The park is 45 minutes away, so you'll have about 4.5 hours inside Kumana. The park is well known for its birds (peacocks, storks, flamingos), but you will also spot water buffaloes and, if you're lucky, elephants and crocodiles. Have breakfast or lunch before you go and bring snacks and plenty of water. On the way to or from Kumana, you can stop at Panama Tank, the large lake close to Panama town, which lots of crocodiles to see.

Small boats leave from the southernmost point of the lagoon where local fishermen will take you on a 2-hour tour around the lagoon, showing you eagles, crocodiles, elephants and other animals. Though maybe underwhelming for kids, this is quite a nice and relaxing way to experience the local flora and fauna. As of 2025 there are even some elephants who like to frolic in the water! 4-6PM is the best time to do this tour as the boats have no shade. Tour agencies offer these trips for Rs 6000 per couple which include the 15-minute ride in a tuk tuk to the Pottuvil lagoon and back.

Close to A-bay and bordering the far side of Pottuvil Lagoon, this park is worth visiting to see wild elephants without the hassle of going to Yala national park.