Pottuvil sits just north of Arugam Bay, quieter and less surf-focused, known instead for lagoon boat safaris that regularly turn up wild elephants and abundant birdlife, plus easy access to Kumana National Park's bird sanctuary.
Boat trips through the lagoon frequently spot wild elephants coming down to drink, alongside crocodiles and a wide range of birdlife.
One of Sri Lanka's best bird-watching parks lies a short drive south — see the Kumana bird sanctuary safari guide.
Pottuvil neighbours Arugam Bay and is the springboard for Kumana National Park birdwatching safaris.