The main beach in Arugam Bay is legendary. It’s where the action is, where the big parties happen, and where the pro surfers battle for waves.

But sometimes, you just want to escape the crowd.

If you are looking for a change of scenery, a mellower wave, or just a day trip that feels like a mini-adventure, you need to head south to Peanut Farm or north to Whiskey Point.

These two beaches offer completely different vibes from the main strip, yet they capture the true soul of the East Coast. Here is why you need to leave the main town and explore these hidden gems.

Whiskey Point: The Party Wave

Located about 15 minutes north of Arugam Bay (past Pottuvil), Whiskey Point is famous for two things: its incredibly fun wave and its Friday night parties.

The Surf The wave here breaks off a large rock formation, creating a predictable, crumbling right-hander. It is widely considered the most "fun" wave in the area. It isn't scary, it isn't shallow, and it runs for a long time. This makes it the absolute favorite spot for beginners graduating from the whitewater and longboarders who just want to cruise.

The Vibe "Whiskey" has a distinct energy. It feels a bit more resort-like than A-Bay, with a few large hotels right on the sand. During the day, it is a surfer’s playground. On Friday nights, it transforms into the biggest party in the area, with DJs spinning tracks until the sun comes up.

Peanut Farm: The Jungle Hideaway

If Whiskey Point is the "resort" cousin, Peanut Farm is the wild, bohemian rebel.

Located about 20 minutes south of Arugam Bay, getting here is half the fun. You have to drive off the main road and bump along a sandy, red dirt track that cuts through the jungle.

The Scenery This place feels untouched. There are no concrete hotels here—only rudimentary treehouses and shacks built from wood and palm leaves. The beach is fringed by dense scrub jungle, and it is very common to see wild elephants crossing the road to get here.

The Surf Peanut Farm is a gem for intermediate surfers. It has two main sections:

The Main Point: A fast, sucky wave that offers barrels when the swell is big.
Baby Point: A sandy inside section that is perfect for learners.

Because it is secluded, the lineup can be less aggressive than Main Point in town, although it does get busy with surf schools in the mornings.

The Commute: A Mini Safari

One of the best reasons to visit these spots is the drive.

To get to Peanut Farm, your tuk-tuk will weave through lagoons and forests. It is rare to make this drive without spotting wildlife. Keep your camera ready for peacocks displaying their feathers, troops of monkeys, and water buffalo wallowing in the mud.

Safety Tip: If you are driving a scooter to Peanut Farm, be very careful around dusk (5:30 PM - 6:30 PM). This is when elephants are most active on the tracks. A tuk-tuk is generally safer if you are unsure.

Eat, Drink, and Chill

You don't need to be a surfer to enjoy these beaches. In fact, they are perfect for a lazy beach day.

At Whiskey Point, you can grab a sunbed at Sababa Surf Resort, order a cold Lion Beer, and watch the action in the water. The food here is generally a mix of Western comfort food and Sri Lankan staples.

At Peanut Farm, the vibe is more rustic. You sit on plastic chairs in the sand or lie in a hammock under a tree. The local families who run the shacks serve incredible, simple food—think fresh coconuts, roti with sambol, and fried rice. It’s cheap, authentic, and delicious.

Practical Details

How to Get There:

To Whiskey Point: Take a tuk-tuk north through Pottuvil. Cost: approx. 1,500 - 2,000 LKR (return).
To Peanut Farm: Take a tuk-tuk south towards Panama. Cost: approx. 2,000 - 3,000 LKR (return).

Best Time to Go:

Morning (7 AM - 10 AM): Best for surfing as the wind is low.
Late Afternoon (4 PM - 6 PM): Best for wildlife viewing on the drive and sunset beers.

Final Verdict

Arugam Bay town is great, but it can get intense. If you want to see the "real" East Coast where the jungle meets the ocean and the pace slows down even further you need to add Whiskey Point and Peanut Farm to your itinerary.