Learn to Surf in Owakanda
Beginner • Intermediate • Advanced Surf Lessons
From $30 per person including surfboard, rash guard and coaching.
Find us on the Galle Road. Walk in, or book ahead on WhatsApp.
+94 71 785 5645
Easy to Find
Base on the Galle Road
4.9★ Rated
60+ Google reviews
Local Instructors
Experienced coaches
Equipment Included
Board + rash guard
Small Groups
Personal feedback
Easy Booking
Walk in or WhatsApp
Choose the right surf lesson for your level
First time on a board, working on your technique, or ready to push further? Pick a lesson below and message us on WhatsApp to confirm the best time. Our season on the south coast runs October to April.
Beginner Lesson
$30
per person
Best for first timers
1 hour 30 minutes including preparation
Ocean awareness and safety
Paddling, popping up and catching your first wave
Surfboard, rash guard and instructor included
Book Beginner Lesson
Intermediate Lesson
$45
per person
Already standing up?
1 hour 30 minutes
Improve paddling technique
Learn to catch unbroken waves
Surfboard, rash guard and instructor included
Book Lesson
Intermediate / Advanced
$60
per person
For confident surfers
2 hours
Turning, positioning and wave reading
Speed, flow and power
Surfboard, rash guard and instructor included
Book Advanced Lesson
Staying a while? We run multi-day packages and can tailor sessions around your trip. Message us on WhatsApp and we’ll put a plan together.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rated 4.9 by 60+ surfers
Real reviews from our Google Business Profile.
Damila was our surf coach for my husband and I. He organized the right board and surf spot for us, knew where to go for our level and had a super good attitude. We had the best time surfing with him and he was giving great tips. We will always go back and use him as our coach.
Damila took my two boys out surfing on what I thought was a pretty rough day, but he was really helpful and gave them a fantastic surfing experience! The surf beach was a close walk from the school and a truly memorable experience! Highly recommend! A definite plus was that there were zero crowds and great waves, even for beginners! They learned a lot and loved it!
We had an amazing experience with my family surfing with Damila and his team. Their attentive and professional approach made the lessons really enjoyable and productive. The atmosphere was very friendly and warm. We will definitely like to come back again!)
You’ll find us easily
Unlike pop-up operations that move around, we run from a fixed base on the Galle Road in Owakanda. Look for our sign and our office — you can walk in, ask questions and book on the spot.
No guessing where to meet. No waiting on a beach hoping someone turns up. Just come and say hello.
Get Directions
Surf lessons across Sri Lanka’s south coast
Our base is in Owakanda, a short drive from some of the best beginner and intermediate breaks on the island. We regularly teach visitors staying in:
Galle
20 minutes
Hikkaduwa
15 minutes
Unawatuna
25 minutes
Ahangama
40 minutes
Weligama
50 minutes
What’s included?
We keep things simple. You turn up ready to surf, and we provide the essentials.
🏄
Surfboard
👕
Rash Guard
🪢
Leash
👨🏫
Instructor
🌊
Ocean Safety
📷
Photos Where Possible
Lesson times
Morning: 7.00am / 9.30am
Afternoon: 1.30pm / 3.30pm
Times can be adjusted depending on surf conditions, tides and your availability.
Check Availability on WhatsAppHow a typical lesson works
Simple, practical coaching before and during your time in the water.
1. Meet at our base
We check your level, choose the right board and explain the plan for your lesson.
2. Warm up and beach briefing
You learn the basics on the beach before going into the water.
3. Water safety and ocean awareness
We explain the waves, currents, positioning and how to stay safe.
4. Water coaching
Your instructor stays with you, helps with paddling, positioning and catching waves.
5. Feedback and next steps
At the end of the lesson, we give simple advice so you know what to improve next.
Already surf? Hire a board
If you don’t need a lesson, we hire out shortboards, longboards and foamies by the hour or the day. Pick up from our base on the Galle Road.
Learn with experienced local instructors
Owakanda Surf School is run by local surfers who know Sri Lanka’s waves, conditions and surf spots. Our lessons are relaxed, supportive and focused on helping you improve safely.
- Beginner-friendly coaching
- Clear instruction in English
- Small groups and personal feedback
- Local knowledge of south coast surf conditions
Find us
567 Galle Road, Owakanda, Rathgama
We’re right on the Galle Road with clear signage — easy to spot whether you’re driving, in a tuk tuk or on the bus.
Staying nearby? Message us and we’ll confirm the easiest way to reach us.
Message Us for Directions567 Galle Road Owakanda, Rathgama, Hikkaduwa 80260
Surf Lesson FAQ
Do I need any surfing experience?
No. Beginner lessons are designed for first-time surfers and anyone who wants to learn the basics safely.
When is the season on the south coast?
We’re based in Owakanda from October to April, when the south coast has the most consistent conditions. From May to September we relocate to Arugam Bay on the east coast.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and water. We provide the surfboard and rash guard.
Can I just turn up?
Yes. We have a fixed base on the Galle Road, so you’re welcome to walk in and ask. Messaging ahead on WhatsApp is still the best way to guarantee a slot at your preferred time.
Can children learn to surf?
Yes, depending on age, confidence in the water and the surf conditions on the day. Message us first and we can advise.
Do you pick up from my hotel?
Message us with where you’re staying and we’ll let you know the easiest way to reach us. We teach visitors staying in Galle, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and further along the coast.
What happens if the surf is not safe?
Safety comes first. If conditions are unsuitable, we will adjust the time, move location where possible, or reschedule. If there is lightning in the area we take everyone out of the water and wait at least 30 minutes after the last strike.
Ready to catch your first wave?
Join the surfers who learned with Owakanda on Sri Lanka’s south coast.
Book Your Lesson on WhatsAppWhatsApp: +94 71 785 5645
Instagram: @owakandasurfclub