Plantation and Coconut Point: Gurubebila's Two Reef Breaks
2 min read
From our archive. First published in 2013. Rooms, prices and services may have changed since, so message us for current details.
Most visitors to the south coast have heard of Weligama Bay and the Midigama left. Fewer know about the two reef breaks in between, right in front of our village: Plantation and Coconut Point.
Where they are
Gurubebila is a quiet village between Midigama and Weligama Bay. Both breaks are a short walk from Surfing Life. You can check the surf with a coffee in your hand and be paddling out a few minutes later.
What the waves are like
Both are reef breaks. They suit intermediate to advanced surfers much better than beginners.
- Plantation has both a left and a right-hander. On a clean day with the right swell, it offers fun, peeling walls and the occasional hollow section.
- Coconut Point is a little more exposed and picks up a bit more swell. It can produce lovely clean barrels when everything lines up.
On a good day the waves get up to around five feet, with long rides. We often surf here from dawn till dusk.
When they work best
The south coast’s main season runs from roughly November to April, when offshore winds clean up the waves. Early mornings are usually best, before the wind swings onshore. Tide matters a lot on reef: some days it’s best on the push, others only around mid-tide. If you’re unsure, ask at breakfast.
Know before you go
- The reef is shallow in places. Reef boots are a good idea, especially at low tide.
- Watch first. Sit on the beach for ten minutes and see where people take off and where they paddle back out.
- Respect the line-up. These are small, friendly breaks with a regular local crew. Wait your turn and say hello.
- Carry a small first-aid kit. Reef cuts are common and need cleaning properly in the tropics.
Not ready for reef yet?
No problem. Weligama’s sandy beginner beach break is only about 3 km away, a short tuk-tuk ride. Many guests learn there in the morning and watch the reef in the afternoon. Experienced surfers can also take a five-minute tuk-tuk to Rams Right and Lazy Left in Midigama.
Boards for every level are available to rent at the guest house.
