Hikkaduwa, located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant seaside town renowned for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and relaxed vibe. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or cultural experiences, Hikkaduwa offers something for everyone.
How to reach
By Train: Take a scenic train ride from Colombo (about 2 hours).
By Bus: Frequent buses run along the coast from Colombo, Galle, and other major cities.
By Car: You can hire a taxi or drive via the Southern Expressway for a faster trip.
Hikkaduwa beach
Known for its clear blue waters and soft golden sand, Hikkaduwa Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. The beach has a lively vibe with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and bars.
Surfing
Hikkaduwa is one of the top surfing spots in Sri Lanka. The best waves are usually find between November and April, and there are surf schools for beginners. Advanced surfers can find challenging breaks along the reef as well.
Snorkeling and Diving
The Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary is home to vibrant coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish. Snorkeling is popular, and there are also several dive shops offering guided dives to nearby shipwrecks and underwater caves. This is a great spot to sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and more.
Sea Turtle Hatcheries
Hikkaduwa has several sea turtle conservation projects where visitors can learn about sea turtles, see baby turtles, and participate in releasing them back into the sea.
Tsunami Honganji Viharaya
This Buddhist temple was built in memory of the victims of the 2004 tsunami.
Coral Gardens
Hikkaduwa’s coral gardens are one of its unique attractions. While some of the corals have suffered from coral bleaching, conservation efforts are ongoing to protect and restore the reefs. Snorkeling trips to the coral gardens are a popular activity.
Dining and Nightlife
Events
Hikkaduwa has a lively nightlife scene compared to other coastal towns in Sri Lanka. Many beach bars and restaurants have music, bonfires, and events that go late into the night.
Weekly Beach Parties
Some beach bars host weekly parties and events, especially during the tourist season (November to April), making Hikkaduwa a popular spot for those looking to experience beach nightlife.
Dining Options
Hikkaduwa offers a range of dining experiences, from casual beachfront cafes to international cuisine and seafood restaurants. Local seafood, including fresh fish, prawns, and crabs, is a highlight
Best time to visit Hikkaduwa
Season
The best time to visit Hikkaduwa is from November to April during the dry season, when the weather is sunny, and sea conditions are ideal for water activities.
Mid season
The southwest monsoon brings rain from May to October, making beach activities and water sports less favourable during this period.
Special note
Try to visit early morning to avoid the heat.
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