Despite attracting thrill-seekers from around the world, Kalpitiya retains its quaint coastal charm, though the Dutch-era fort near the end of the peninsula is occupied by the Sri Lankan navy. Cows, goats and donkeys stroll beside the road and villages buzz with local life, but the big lure for visitors is the world-class kitesurfing on offer in the Kalpitiya Lagoon.
Thatched-roof beach huts with outdoor showers offer a pleasing surf-shack vibe, and most mornings you’ll wake to a crowing rooster. Kitesurfing centers are dotted around the lagoon, and there’s more impressive kitesurfing 30km (19 miles) north off the narrow sandbar known as Vella Island.
The weather for kitesurfing is ideal between October to May, and there are numerous kitesurfing schools around Kalpitiya where you can hone your skills.
