Booking Policy – Tailslide Surf House

Effective Date: 01/09/2025

At Tailslide Surf House in Madiha, Sri Lanka, we aim to keep booking simple, transparent, and fair. Please read our booking policy carefully before reserving your surf retreat or surf coaching stay.


1. Reservations & Deposits


  • A 20% non-refundable deposit of the total booking value is required to secure your reservation.
  • Your booking is only confirmed once the deposit has been received.
  • The remaining balance is payable on arrival at the retreat.


2. Minimum Stay


  • Surf Retreat Packages: Minimum stay of 7 days / 6 nights (or 5 nights in low/shoulder season, when available).
  • Accommodation-Only Bookings (no surf): Minimum stay of 3 nights / 2 nights.
  • Longer stays are welcome, with discounts for 3+ week stays where surf progression truly accelerates.


3. Cancellations & Refunds


  • Deposits are non-refundable.
  • Cancellations made more than 30 days before arrival: deposit can be transferred to a future booking within 12 months.
  • Cancellations made within 30 days of arrival: deposit is forfeited.
  • Cancellations made within 5 days of arrival: full balance may be charged.
  • No-shows or early departures are charged in full.
  • If you cannot travel due to force majeure (e.g., flight cancellations, government restrictions, natural events), we will do our best to reschedule your dates at no extra cost.

⚠️ All cancellations must be made in writing via email. WhatsApp or verbal cancellations will not be accepted.

4. Travel Insurance


  • Guests must hold valid travel insurance covering surfing, water sports, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations.
  • Proof of insurance may be requested at check-in.

Optional Insurance Add-Ons:

  • Cancellation Insurance (€50 per person): Cancel for any reason up to check-in day, no doctor’s note required. Must be booked at the time of reservation.

Board Insurance (€60): Covers dings, dents, or snapped boards for up to three weeks. Does not cover lost board parts (repair costs for missing parts must be covered by the guest).

5. Non-Surfing Partners


  • Non-surfing partners are welcome and receive a 30% discount off the standard retreat rate.
  • They enjoy all meals, accommodation, and retreat facilities, but surf coaching is not included.
  • This ensures the retreat remains surf-focused while still welcoming partners.

6. Long Stay & Repeat Guest Discounts


  • Long stays (3+ weeks): eligible for discounted rates.
  • Repeat guests: always receive a loyalty discount as part of the Tailslide family.
  • Discounts cannot be combined with other promotions unless stated.


7. What’s Included in Your Booking


  • Boutique accommodation with AC, steps from Madiha’s reef breaks.
  • One guided surf session per day in small, skill-based groups.
  • Surf equipment (boards, leashes, rashguards, wax).
  • Optional equipment insurance: €60 for two weeks. Covers accidental damage up to a snapped board (both pieces must be returned). Loss, theft, or negligence not covered.
  • Surf theory and video analysis sessions multiple times per week.
  • Healthy daily breakfast.
  • Relaxation spaces and communal areas.
  • Occasional community events (BBQs, film nights).
  • Sustainability workshops and eco-friendly facilities (recycling stations, water-saving systems, locally sourced meals).

Extras available on request (additional cost):

  • Airport transfers.
  • Extra surf guiding sessions.
  • Excursions (whale watching, snorkeling, cultural day trips).


8. Liability & Safety


  • Surfing carries inherent risks. By booking, you accept responsibility for your participation and agree to follow coach guidance at all times.
  • Guests must be able to swim and disclose any relevant health issues.
  • Tailslide Surf House is not liable for injuries, accidents, or loss of personal property.
  • Respect for surf etiquette, fellow guests, staff, and the local community is expected at all times.


9. Changes to Bookings


  • Surf schedules depend on tides, swell, and weather. We may adjust timings for safety and quality.
  • Retreat plans are non-refundable if adjusted due to ocean conditions.
  • All booking changes must be requested via email.


10. Contact Us


For booking changes, cancellations, or questions, contact us at:

Tailslide Surf House
Madiha, Matara District, Sri Lanka

Email: surf.tailslide@gmail.com 


Phone/WhatsApp: +94 76 402 5281 


⚠️ Important: All cancellations must be made in writing via email only. Verbal cancellations or whatsapp written messages will not be accepted.