Local instructors are available for basic instruction, but as surfing is as much about practice as theory, there is nothing better or beginners than to get into the water and get on a board. For encouragement, Hikkaduwa has the equivalent of a skier’s nursery slope – a surfing paradise for beginners – for inshore of the main break there is a reef that gradually becomes buried by sand during the monsoon. The broken waves that roll ashore over the clogged reef (that is, until the sand is washed away later in the season), make it an ideal place for taking one’s first surfing lessons.
Experienced surfers, however, will want to tackle the challenge of the main break, which is known as the A-frame due to the pex-like peaks of water that form here. The best time to take on the A-frame is very early morning, before the sun gets too hot and the wind veers towards the shore. It’s a magical time of day, with the sun rising from the land, and sending shafts of yellow light through the clear water. As you sit astride your board
waiting for a wave you can watch shoals of exotic fish, sometimes even large turtles.
As can be imagined, it’s a popular spot, especially in February and March. Less experienced surfers may find it difficult to catch the waves, especially later in the morning, when it is most crowded. No matter if this is the case, for the smaller waves on the beach to the south are less crowded and can be just as exhilarating. If the worst comes to the worst, there are some surfing spots farther south at Unawatuna, Mitigama and Mirissa, where there’s a good swell running.
Wherever you may be surfing on this patch of coast, at midday the onshore wind starts to blow, after which surfing is not worthwhile until late afternoon. This is the time to rest weary limbs, re-hydrate and relax in preparation for when the wind drops between 4 and 5 o’clock, and the waves take on a good shape once more. It’s much cooler then, and it’s an ideal opportunity to get one more surfing session in before dusk.
It is often said about Hikkaduwa that there is a good sense of camaraderie among the surfers, whether they are absolute eginners, surfing travellers or seasoned professionals. This is no doubt encouraged by the number of beachfront cafes and restaurants, where surfers gather to watch the surfing action and swap tips and stories. Beginners and even more experienced surfers can take advantage of this fellowship to further their knowledge of the sport.