Some people find surfing incredibly exciting and fun, and we couldn’t agree more!
If you opt for Sri Lanka as your next surfing location, then you have come to the right place. Today we are taking a look at the best surf hostels in Sri Lanka and how you can enjoy your time there!
Good to know: If you’re hopping around Sri Lanka, we have other guides that could come in useful, like our best hostels in Sri Lanka guide or the one on the best hostels in Hikkaduwa, Mirissa, and Colombo!
Here’s your shortcut to the 14 best Surf Hostels in Sri Lanka:
- Steffi’s Mandala
- Hangtime Hostel
- Beatroot Hostels
- Spindrift Hostel Welligama
- Spindrift Madiha
- The Doctor’s House
- Why Not Backpackers
- JJ’s Hostel Mirissa
- Babylon Mirissa
- Surfing Wombats
- Mellow Hostel
- Little Lagoon Hostel
- The Rockstel
- Cycling Hostel
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com, and others with 1 click.
My Best Hostels in Sri Lanka for Female Traveler on a Map + Sights
We’ve put all of our best Sri Lanka surfing hostels on the map bellow (in dark blue) to help you visualize them.
List of Cities in Sri Lanka with great hostels
The following destinations host epic surf hostels in Sri Lanka on the beach:
- Map with all hostels
- How to book hostels in Sri Lanka
- FAQ
- Flights to Sri Lanka
- discounts and promo codes
This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…
- are tired of crappy hostels!
- want a social Hostel to actually meet people
- are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience
🎁 New to Hostels? Read my guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. I especially recommend reading:
- How to book hostels?
- Understanding Hostels in Europe - and what makes them special
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| 💑 for Couples: | Babylon Mirissa |
| 🎒 for Backpacker: | Beatroot Hostels |
| 🥳 Party Hostel: | The Doctor’s House |
| 🦸 Solo Traveler: | JJ’s Hostel Mirissa |
| 🙎♀️ Female Solo Traveler: | The Rockstel |
| 👫 For Socializing: | Hangtime Hostel |
| 👯 For Groups: | Steffi’s Mandala |
Top 14 Surf Hostels in Sri Lanka – Area Outlook
Arugam Bay: this is by far one of the most popular surfing options you can find! The surfing season here is definitely different from all the other places. If you are wondering when is the best time to visit, note that the ideal surfing conditions are available from May through September.
South Coast: this place provides much easier access and offers gorgeous fine-sanded beaches and many wildlife parks around the area.
Weligama and Hikkaduwa: are also a pair of beautiful surfing locations that are most appropriate for beginner practitioners. We recommend that you book your trip here from September to May because during the summer months, the waves become bigger, and a beginner shouldn’t try them out.
Where do beginners surf in Sri Lanka? Weligama Beach and Arugam Bay are the most popular practicing options for beginners. If you want to opt for a surfing school, shallow water, and a wide beach, Weligama is the better option.
Another important thing; if you are staying near Colombo, remember that this is not a place to surf at all. In fact, this is a well-connected city, and you’ll have no trouble going from here to Weligama by bus.
Best Surf Hostels in Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is best known for its long sandy beaches, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions. You can find some endangered species, look at the giant Buddha, or discover the seventy varieties of multicolored corals.
But, when it comes to surf hostels in Sri Lanka, one stands out from the rest: Steffi’s Mandala.
Steffi’s Mandala
Steffi’s Mandala is one of the best surf hostels that you will find in Sri Lanka that’s located directly on the beach. WE LOVED IT HERE!!!
It provides private and mixed dorm rooms, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your preferences.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Surf Hostels in Weligama
If you have ever wondered what dreams are made of, this city can easily be the answer to that question. Weligama is an incredible town located in the south of Sri Lanka.
Offering the longest and largest beaches in the country, it’s no wonder it’s considered an ideal place for surfing. Here are its best surf hostels:
Hangtime Hostel
Hangtime Hostel is one of the best surf hostels in Sri Lanka for those who enjoy good food, good surfing company, and the incredible energy that comes from being situated beachfront.
The staff promises you’ll enjoy the best coffee in the on-site cafe, and if you feel like you have some extra energy remaining, you can always focus on practicing yoga.
Sidenote – they make the best banana bread in all of Sri Lanka!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Beatroot Hostel
Weligama is home to another incredible hostel that can accommodate all your needs: Beatroot Hostels. The daily breakfast offers many options, and other than that, you can enjoy a common room, a shared bathroom, and a relaxed backpacker vibe – just what you need when surfing!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
The Spindrift Hostel
Spindrift Hostel is an oasis for backpackers and surfers in Weligama, just a few seconds away from the stunning beach. It was designed with the needs of travelers in mind, and the hostel offers spacious double rooms and sleek dorms.
With multiple chillout areas, balconies, and outdoor spaces, there is ample opportunity to meet new friends from around the world and share amazing experiences.
Spindrift is filled with exciting daily activities, so there is never a dull moment. Plus, the retro gaming corner is perfect for those who want to battle it out and get their name on the leaderboard.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Surf Hostels in Madiha
Madiha is well-known among surfers all over the world. This place offers some of the longest and most incredible beaches, but it is reserved for more advanced surfers.
This is because of the harshness of the waves, making them hard to be tackled even by professionals. Here are the best surf hostels in Madiha, Sri Lanka:
Spindrift Madiha
This is undoubtedly one of the best surf hostels in Sri Lanka. Spindrift Madiha is filled with cool vibes, a positive attitude, and plenty of amenities, including a beautiful swimming pool!
Located just off the road from Madiha beach, the place is very easy to find. There are many activities that you can enjoy while you stay there.
You can start as simple as sipping on your first cup of coffee in the morning to enjoying a co-working space, practicing yoga, and more. The fluffy pillows and the comfortable beds will give your body the extra rest it needs after a long day of surfing.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
The Doctor’s House
However strange it may sound, the Doctor’s House is preferred by people who go there to surf and party. The rooms come with a private bathroom, and some of them feature a balcony, too.
The garden and the common area are incredible, and parties are often organized there. The palace features an on-site bar and restaurant, offering simply amazing food.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Surf Hostels in Mirissa
There is a reason why Mirissa is one of the most popular beach destinations in Sri Lanka.
It provides a breathtaking view, it is filled with marine life, and even if you don’t surf, you can spend your days laying on a hammock in some of the best surf hostels in Sri Lanka. Here are its best surf hostels:
Why Not Backpackers
Why Not Backpackers is a hostel that undoubtedly provides the ultimate party experience.
This is an incredible way to get the most out of your trip if you want the party to go on until the wee hours of the night. Obviously, you’ll also get to surf here, just make sure not to surf and drink at the same time!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
JJ’s Hostel Mirissa
If you’re a female solo traveler looking for the best place to lodge, JJ’s Hostel Mirissa is the answer you’re looking for.
This award-winning hostel provides luxury female-only dormitory rooms with everything a girl would need – from a personalized reading light to comfortable pillows.
The private rooms even offer a queen-sized bed and a writing desk! What more could you ask for?
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Babylon Mirissa
Another one on our list of best surf hostels in Sri Lanka is Babylon Mirissa. Other than the excellent accommodation, you get to enjoy a beautiful garden, a bar, and even a shared lounge.
All of the rooms include a private bathroom, and there is a bidet in everyone. Guests have rated it as an excellent spot, especially for couples.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Surf Hostels in Ahangama
Besides enjoying the view of majestic palm trees and incredible beaches, this small town hosts many surfers worldwide.
There is no other sound but the ones of the crashing waves, making it the perfect place for all those who want to relax and fully dedicate themselves to this water adventure. And when it comes to lodging options, here are our recommendations:
Surfing Wombats
Surfing Wombats is one of the ultimate backpacking hostels that has hosted many surfers, mostly because it offers some very good surfing packages.
If you decide to stay here, there’s one thing you should definitely try – their pizza! It doesn’t matter if you are craving it; it is definitely the best in the area, so you have to try it.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Mellow Hostel
Mellow Hostel is a beachfront dream that no female solo traveler should miss out on. You can enjoy your time in the shared lounge, meditating, or even playing table tennis. They offer a continental or American breakfast, and each room has bed linens and towels.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Little Lagoon Hostel
A tropical wonder on the Arugan Bay where you would love to stay forever, this is one of the best surf hostels in Sri Lanka, located only a three-minute walk from the beach.
Little Lagoon Hostel offers private and dormitory rooms for you to choose from. Even though it is a small eco-friendly hostel, the service is more than enjoyable!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Surf Hostels in Unawatuna
Last but not least, this coastal town is a major tourist attraction. Unawatuna is known for its marvelous beaches and corals, so if you are considering going there, here are the best surf hostels in Unawatuna, Sri Lanka:
The Rockstel
The Rockstel is another incredible hostel that is designed for female solo travelers. You can enjoy the peace there while meditating and relaxing in the common areas and surfing in the nearby sea.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Cycling Hostel
Both solo travelers and groups can enjoy their stay in this new hostel. It is a fresh way to discover the city since it is close to many restaurants and markets.
If you are looking to explore the coast, Cycling Hostel is the place you should be looking into.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
What about the cheapest hostels in Sri Lanka?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Sri Lanka.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Sri Lanka
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Any Discounts?
From time to time, I receive special promo codes for booking platforms, hotels, or hostels. I will be sharing these here once received. Bookmark this page to get an update.
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
I included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
I recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Sri Lanka best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
My Best Hostels in Sri Lanka for Female Traveler on a Map + Sights
FAQs
Here we share with you the most asked question:
Is Sri Lanka good for beginner surfers?
Yes, Sri lanka is great for beginner surfers. The warm waters and wide variety of beginner-friendly waves offer an ideal learning environment for new surfers. Sri Lanka also offers plenty of surf camps and schools that are designed specifically for beginners.
Do shark attacks happen in Sri Lanka?
Shark attacks are incredibly rare in Sri Lanka. A total of around only 14 shark attacks have been reported since 1989!
Is Sri Lanka worth visiting for surfers?
Yes, Sri Lanka is worth visiting for surfers. With its warm weather, numerous beaches and waves, and vibrant culture, Sri Lanka is a great place for surfers of all skill levels to explore.
What are the best surf hostels in Sri Lanka?
More handmade Guides for you
We have a dedicated guide to the best hostels in Sri Lanka that should come in handy if you’re planning on traveling throughout the country.
And here are all our Sri Lanka Guides:
You can find all our new and updated articles for Best Hostels here.
We also created a huge guide to hostels. Here we cover how to build lifetime friendships in hostels, the perfect packing list, and more.
