Surfing

Lighthouse is the most northerly spot that’s usually still included under the official list of Arugambay surf spots. It strings the shore just outside of the small village and lagoon of Komari, by the crumbled remains of an old WWII lighthouse (hence the name). What the wave lacks in consistency (seriously, don’t even bother when the stars aren’t aligned) it makes up for in shape… It’s basically a duo of rippable right-handers when conditions are right. One is good for starters but the other is better suited to experienced surfers, coming with a boulder-sand bottom. Note how the waves at Lighthouse get faster throughout the season, as the sandbanks bulk up during the dry season swell direction.

Mellow doesn’t quite do it justice here because the wave at Whiskey Point is just about as chilled as it’s possible to get. It’s a beginner’s heaven, with soft, easy-going rights that break off a boulder point. Swells can pick up to 4 metres in heavy ocean storms, but they are virtually never seen in the main Arugambay season. Usually, its chest- or shoulder-high breakers that offer plenty of time to practice pop ups.

This is probably the wave you’ve seen photos off if you’ve been Googling up images of Arugambay surf spots. It’s a classic regional point break with what’s potentially a long, 50-150m ride coming off a series of boulders. The bottom is sand mixed reef, which is why most total beginners stick to the mini point that’s just on the other side. On big days it can barrel but also blows out at the sniff of a breeze.

On a long, beautiful beach that’s clad in sea vines and speckled with boulders, Peanut Farm offers some of the most accessible waves in the area. It’s a hubbub of surf schools from May to August, but don’t let that put you off – it’s a corker to learn on. The style? Expect a beach break with a sand bottom that gets its power from a low headland. The only tricky thing might be getting there – it’s hidden by a lagoon more than 7km south of town.

Call it what you will, this jutting point break might be worth seeking out. You’ll need to commit because the walk to the shore is at least 20 minutes when carrying boards. The reward? Right-hand crumblers that can be pretty empty compared to other, more central, Arugambay spots. Just watch out for crocodiles!

It might be the farthest away from Arugambay town, but Okanda does offer ample reward for those who make the 23-kilometre journey. Not one, not two, but three individual point breaks await here. They cater to a range of different levels, but are generally strong intermediate and above. Things can get windy due to exposure, thought the waves hold up well to a massive 8-10ft on swell days. Beware of big rips close to the headland.