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Top 16 Water Sports In Sri Lanka

Last Updated At: 22-Mar-2024

Top 16 Water Sports In Sri Lanka | For A Refreshing Weekend

Imagine an island jewel suspended in the crystal blue Indian Ocean, a paradise blessed with golden sandy beaches stretching into the horizon. That's Sri Lanka for you, a timeless beauty waiting to enchant you with its charm. This land, steeped in rich history and vibrant culture, is a travel destination captivating the hearts of millions. Did you know that an impressive count of 719,978 international tourists washed up on the shores of Sri Lanka in 2022 alone?

"Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer", and richer you shall be with the memories you create in Sri Lanka. This destination is a dream for those who enjoy frolicking in the sea and adrenaline-packed water sports. Indeed, Sri Lanka is the secret ingredient to add a pinch of thrill to your otherwise mundane life!

So, let's unwrap the best water sports in Sri Lanka!

List Of 16 Amazing Water Sports In Sri Lanka

Is the call of the wild water tugging at your adventurous heart? Sri Lanka is your playground! Here's a list of water sports you can enjoy in this island paradise:

  • Surfing | Riding Waves with Board
  • Windsurfing | Surfing Combined with Sailing
  • Kitesurfing | Surfing Propelled by Kite
  • Diving | Submerging Underwater for Exploration
  • Snorkelling | Swimming with Snorkel Gear
  • Kayaking | Paddling in a Small, Narrow Boat
  • Canoeing | Paddling in an Open Boat
  • Jet Skiing | Riding a Personal Watercraft
  • Sailing | Navigating Waters in a Sailboat
  • White Water Rafting | Navigating Turbulent River Currents
  • Water Skiing | Skimming Water on Skis
  • Banana Boat Riding | Group Ride on Inflatable Banana
  • Stand-up Paddleboarding | Standing Surfboard Paddling
  • Deep-sea Fishing | Catching Fish in Deep Waters
  • Whale Watching | Observing Whales in Their Habitat
  • Parasailing | Soaring in Parachute Pulled by Boat

1. Surfing | Riding Waves with Board

Join the worldwide surfers who flock to the golden beaches of Sri Lanka, some of the best surfing spots in Sri Lanka. Experience the joy of catching and riding a wave to the shore at iconic locations like Arugam Bay and Hikkaduwa. These coastal treasures have year-round swells, warm turquoise waters, and varied breaks, perfect for beginners and seasoned surfers. You might want to check out the water sports packages in Sri Lanka offering surfing lessons from certified instructors.

  • Major Tourist Spots: Arugam Bay, Hikkaduwa, Weligama.
  • Best Things To Do: Sunrise surf sessions, Yoga on the beach, Seafood feasts at local eateries.

2. Windsurfing | Surfing Combined with Sailing

Feel the power of the wind and waves as you embark on a windsurfing adventure in Sri Lanka. Bentota, with its safe shallow waters and steady winds, is an idyllic location for this beginner-friendly water sport. You'll find yourself gracefully gliding over the waves, a rush of excitement running through your veins as you master the winds and waves.

  • Major Tourist Spots: Bentota, Aluthgama.
  • Best Things To Do: River safaris on the Madu Ganga; visit the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project.

3. Kitesurfing | Surfing Propelled by Kite

Add a dash of sky-high excitement to your Sri Lankan holiday with kitesurfing. Kalpitiya, nestled on the northwestern coast, is a prime spot for kitesurfing. Learn the ropes at some of the best kiteboarding schools in Sri Lanka, and let the wind whisk you away on an unforgettable adventure.

  • Major Tourist Spots: Kalpitiya, Mannar.
  • Best Things To Do: Dolphin watching tours, Visit the Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary.

4. Diving | Submerging Underwater for Exploration

Discover the mesmerising world beneath the ocean's surface with scuba diving excursions in Sri Lanka. The island's diverse marine ecosystems offer an enchanting experience for diving enthusiasts. Explore vibrant coral reefs, swim alongside exotic fish, and uncover mysterious underwater wrecks in popular diving sites like Unawatuna, Trincomalee, and Pigeon Island.

  • Major Tourist Spots: Unawatuna, Trincomalee, Pigeon Island.
  • Best Things To Do: Visit the historical Galle Fort, Explore the Trincomalee War Cemetery, and Hike to Pigeon Island's summit.

Read More : History Of Sri Lanka

5. Snorkelling | Swimming with Snorkel Gear

Experience the rich marine biodiversity of Sri Lankan waters without diving too deep. Snorkelling is a fun, accessible way to explore the underwater world. Don't forget to browse snorkelling gear reviews before you gear up for your snorkelling adventure.

  • Major Tourist Spots: Hikkaduwa National Park, Pigeon Island National Park, Bar Reef.
  • Best Things To Do: Visit the Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery, Trek to the Pigeon Island viewpoint, and Watch the sunset at Kalpitiya Beach.

6. Jet Skiing | Riding a Personal Watercraft

Unleash your inner speed demon and zoom across the water on a jet ski. Places like Bentota River and Negombo Lagoon are popular for jet skiing. Novices should pick up some jet skiing tips for beginners before hitting the throttle.

  • Major Tourist Spots: Bentota, Negombo.
  • Best Things To Do: Boat tours on the Bentota River, Visit the Negombo Fish Market, and Explore the Dutch Fort.

7. Canoeing | Paddling in an Open Boat

Immerse yourself in nature with a serene canoeing experience in Sri Lanka's majestic rivers and lagoons. Navigate through mangrove tunnels, observe diverse wildlife and experience the tranquillity of the surroundings. Madu River is a prime spot offering a blend of ecological significance and adventurous water sports.

  • Major Tourist Spots: Madu River, Mahaweli River, Koggala Lagoon.
  • Best Things To Do: Explore the cinnamon island in Madu River, Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic near Mahaweli River, and Spot exotic birds at Koggala Lake.

8. Sailing | Navigating Waters in a Sailboat