“Paddle, paddle, paddle. Stand UP!” Fingers pressed together, hands slightly cupped, neck craned over my left shoulder in an attempt to keep an eye on the incoming set of waves, I desperately try to get in a few more strokes before popping up on my board and riding my way to the shore. It’s an exhausting race, my eighth or ninth heat of the day, but certainly an exhilarating one. Surfer’s stoke is very much a real thing.
Planting my palms firmly under my shoulders, I use all my strength to push my body up in one swift motion, attempting a seamless transition from belly on board and arms in the water to wobbling stature, finally fumbling my way into the correct position: knees slightly bent, core engaged, hands out for balance. Look where you want to go. Neptune’s might gently break behind me, a set of baby waves that blends its bubbles with the powdery sand below like Mother Nature’s very own Shark Ninja blender. I ride the whitewash – surfer lingo the foamy water left behind when waves break – to the shallows of Deweta Beach and step off my board with ease, feeling more than a little proud of myself. I like to think I’m pretty fit, but testing my sprint, strength and balancing abilities, over and over again, at 8:00 on a Thursday morning is unbelievably knackering.
I turn back and look at my instructor who is chest-deep swell, with a massive grin on my face. I simultaneously try to pick up the nose of my board and drag it back to sea. “Again?” I call out, conscious of how much I sound like an eight-year-old. He nods and motions for me to paddle out, again.
I’ve broken off from my group during a trip to Radisson Collection Resort, Galle in Sri Lanka to live out my Blue Crush dreams, a classic noughties surfer chick flick starring Kate Bosworth. While everyone else snorkels in a nearby bay, I’m trying my hand at a new sport and have quickly fallen in love with it – while simultaneously ticking off another item on the bucket list. This is what’s been truly special about my stay: be it exploring nearby tea plantations with a fourth-generation tea planter; learning the history of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from a guided tour by a resident; or being escorted to the little surf boutiques in nearby Ahangama by private van (just to make sure I don’t get lost) the team consistency go above and beyond to ensure everyone is enjoying themselves – and that includes organising a one-on-one surf lesson for me with a member of Sri Lanka’s national surf team.
Having recently opened its doors in early 2025, Radisson Collection Resort, Galle, situated on Unawatuna Beach (a two-hour drive away from Colombo), is an ideal destination for those seeking a slice of luxury leisure in between their rugged adventures – but is especially suitable to solo female travellers looking for safety and comfort without compromising on Insta-worthy accommodations. The turquoise infinity pool – overlooking the sprawling golden beaches and palm trees, and reefs dotted with local stilt fishermans’ posts – is a particular highlight; although the views from the 5th floor one-bedroom suites with panoramic ocean view and wrap-around balconies are certainly impressive. On the hunt for beach club vibes? Taboo brings the party right to the doorstep, turning the terrace out by the pool into a particularly vibrant venue that even resort visitors can book into. Guests can also choose between dining at Catch – a lounge by day, situated on the far end of the main lobby, that transforms into an upscale seafood restaurant by night – or at Namikaze Restaurant & Bar, which dishes up Japanese and Asian fusion cuisine.
And while bucket list moments appear to be in abundance at Radisson Collection Resort, Galle, nothing tops watching the sun dip below the horizon on a clear night, sundowners in hand. If you’re staying in a suite, be sure to let your personal butler know your golden hour plans – and expect a little treat when you arrive back home. Paradise has certainly been found here, time to make if your own…
For more information visit radissonhotels.com