Car Rental in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka
Air conditioning and a locked boot for the long drive out to the east coast, or the safari run down to Kumana. Four models available: Suzuki Alto K10, Wagon R, Toyota Aqua and Prius.
Part of NOHA’s island-wide car rental in Sri Lanka — see the hub for full rates, insurance and paperwork detail.
As low as
$22/day
On 16+ day rentals. From $29/day on shorter stays.
Refundable deposit
USD 200–500 by model
Every rental includes
Rates by rental length
| Rental length | Price per day |
|---|---|
| 2–4 days | $29 |
| 5–10 daysWe recommend | $27 |
| 11–15 days | $25 |
| 16–45 days | $22 |
Popular car routes from Arugam Bay
Main Point & Whiskey Point
In townThe famous surf breaks the bay is named for, both walkable from most stays.
Pottuvil
~4 kmThe small town just north, at the mouth of the lagoon.
Kumana National Park
~25 kmSouth through Panama — elephants, leopards, and a wide range of birdlife on safari.
Tissamaharama & Yala
~150 kmThe gateway to Yala National Park — a long half-day's ride south.
Ella
~130 kmWest into the hill country — a long day's ride, but a well-known payoff.
Driving a car out of Arugam Bay
A car isn't needed for the bay itself — the surf points and Pottuvil are both close and easy on two wheels — but it's the comfortable choice for the long drive out here, or a Kumana safari day.
Air conditioning matters on the east coast's open heat, and the boot is useful for the multi-day trip most guests build around Arugam Bay, continuing on to Ella, Tissamaharama, or Yala.
What comes with it
Full insurance
Driving introduction lesson
Unlimited kilometres
Full tool kit
Phone holder
First aid kit
WhatsApp support, 365 days
Tour plan assistance
Pickup in Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay is a long way from our Galle base, over on the east coast — pickup and return this far out are arranged case by case. Message us your dates and we'll work out the details.
The paperwork you’ll need
You can use either the AAC or the DMT permit for a car — full comparison, fees, and how to get one before you arrive.
Compare AAC vs DMT →Questions about car rental in Arugam Bay
- Which car model should I pick?
- The Alto K10 works for two people travelling light. For the long haul out to the east coast, or continuing on to Yala or the hill country afterwards, the Wagon R or Aqua carry more gear comfortably — the Prius is the roomiest choice for a fuller group.
- Is this self-drive, or can I hire a driver too?
- Self-drive is the default — you get the keys, and we handle your Sri Lankan necessary paperwork before you arrive. If you'd rather not drive yourself, a chauffeur option is available on all four models, with the rate quoted per trip on WhatsApp.
- Is a car necessary for Arugam Bay itself?
- Not for the bay and beach road — it's small and easy on a scooter or tuk tuk. A car makes more sense for the long drive out here, or a Kumana safari day.
- Can I return the car somewhere other than Arugam Bay?
- Yes. Plenty of guests continue on to Ella or the hill country. Tell us where you expect to end up and we will arrange collection.
Other vehicles available in Arugam Bay
Ready when you are
Nothing is charged in advance. Message us your dates on WhatsApp.