Our Story

Noah's Journey

Born on this beach, shaped by these waves.

Noah's Story

Born from the
Waves of Hiriketiya

A Childhood in the Salt Air

I was born in Hiriketiya, a small village on the south coast of Sri Lanka, where the jungle meets the beach. Long before it became famous, Hiriketiya was my playground. By the age of six, I was already playing in the waves, watching sea turtles, and learning about the ocean from local fishermen. The sound of the waves felt like home to me.

The Spark of a Dream — When I was eight, I saw something that changed my life: a traveler riding the waves on a surfboard. I didn't have money to buy my own board, so I asked travelers if I could borrow theirs. I kept practicing and slowly taught myself — from a beginner to an expert.

Today, students from all over the world simply call me “Noah.” I teach visitors from the UK, US, Australia, and many other countries. I don't just teach you how to stand on a surfboard — I help you feel comfortable in the waves, respect the ocean, and enjoy every moment in the water.

“I saw a foreigner out in the sea, riding the waves on a strange board. I had no idea what it actually was.”

“My journey started on this beach, and I'd love to help you start yours too. See you in the water — Noah.”
Noah, founder and head instructor at Noah Surf School

Surf History

The Evolution of Surf in Sri Lanka

From ancient coasts to a global surf haven.

From Ancient Coasts to Global Surf Haven

Sri Lanka's relationship with the ocean spans thousands of years. The story of surfing in Sri Lanka truly began in the 1960s and 70s when intrepid travelers from Australia and Europe began exploring our southern and eastern shores, discovering what locals always knew: our coastline holds some of the most consistent waves in the Indian Ocean.

The Discovery of Hikkaduwa and Arugam Bay

The first surf hubs emerged in Hikkaduwa and Arugam Bay. These pioneers brought the first fiberglass boards to our shores. Sri Lankans began borrowing boards — much like Noah did in Hiriketiya — and teaching themselves to dance with the waves.

The Rise of the South Coast & Hiriketiya

For a long time, Hiriketiya Beach remained a hidden secret. It wasn't until the last decade that the world woke up to the “Horseshoe Bay.” Today, Sri Lanka is recognized globally as a premier surfing destination.

Surfing Today: A Way of Life

Surfing is no longer just a tourist activity; it is a vital part of our coastal identity. From borrowed boards to the high-performance coaching at Noah's Surf School, the spirit remains the same: a profound respect for the ocean and the pure joy of the ride.

5,500+

Surfers Trained

Students from 60+ countries

14

Years Experience

Operating since 2010

5.0

Student Rating

Based on 300+ reviews

Advantages

Why Learn to Surf
With Us?

Safety and technique come first — our team, led by Noah, consists of ISA-certified professionals dedicated to helping you progress quickly and safely.

  • Certified ISA surf instructors on every session
  • Small student-to-instructor ratios (max 6 per group)
  • All equipment provided — boards, leashes, rash guards
  • Suitable for all ages from 7 years and up
  • Warm, consistent Indian Ocean swells year-round
  • Flexible scheduling — daily 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
  • Lessons in English
Surf coaching at Noah

Our Team

Meet Our Team

The Noah Surf School team

Led by Noah, our team of ISA-certified instructors shares a passion for Hiriketiya's waves and for helping surfers of every level progress quickly and safely. From first-timers to advanced riders, we bring patience, local knowledge, and genuine warmth to every session.

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Stay in the Loop

Follow our daily surf sessions, behind-the-scenes moments, and Hirikatiya life on social media.

Find Us

Hirikatiya Beach, Sri Lanka

Get Started

Ready to Hit the Waves?

Book a session with one of our certified instructors today.

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