Surf in Madiha Left

Overview: Madiha Left

A punchy left-hand reef in Madiha (just west of Matara). Shorter than the right but more intense, with a shallow inside that can throw a brief barrel on good days. Best suited to intermediate–advanced surfers with reef awareness.

Surfing & Waves

• Type: Exposed reef; steeper take-off, short but powerful walls.
• Best for: Intermediates+; confident paddling and timing over shallow coral.
• Swell: Thrives on SW groundswells; picks up plenty of energy.
• Wind: Cleanest with light N–NE (offshore) mornings.
• Tide: Surfs across tides; mid to higher adds cushion over shallow sections.
• Character: Often a brief barrel after take-off, then a running wall for snaps/cutbacks.

Etiquette & Safety

• Bottom: Sharp reef/urchins—avoid low-tide end sections; wear a leash (booties optional).
• Rips/Channel: A shared channel between the left and the right; watch the locals and time sets.
• Respect the peak rotation; call your direction and keep clear of jump-in/exit zones.

Getting There & Access

• Located in Madiha, a few km west of Matara town; easy tuk-tuk/scooter access via coastal lanes.
• Entry is typically from rock/reef shelves—watch a few sets before paddling and mind fishermen.

Best Time to Surf

South coast season runs roughly Nov–Mar/Apr for the most consistent clean conditions (SW swells + light northerlies). Some guides widen the workable window to Oct–May, but mid-year can be wind-affected/flat.

Nearby Surf & Things To Do

• Madiha Right – longer, friendlier reef opposite the left.
• Polhena – snorkeling & turtles; occasional outer-reef wedges.
• SK Town (Medawatta) – sandy learner peaks.
• Weligama / Mirissa – beginner bay and intermediate reefs within a short tuk-tuk ride.

FAQ