Hikkaduwa is a small beach town on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast. It is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka and offers a variety of enjoyable activities, including surfing, snorkeling, swimming, and visiting Buddhist temples.
The beach is about 4 kilometers long and is a popular surfing spot from April to October. During this time, the water is calm and clear, making it perfect for snorkeling and swimming. There is also a good chance of seeing giant turtles swimming in the area, as Hikkaduwa Beach is one of the places in Sri Lanka where they hatch their eggs.
In addition to its natural beauty, Hikkaduwa Beach also has a vibrant cultural scene. There are many Buddhist temples in the area, as well as a number of restaurants and bars that offer traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting adventure, Hikkaduwa Beach is the perfect destination.
The Best Things To Do in Hikkaduwa
Snorkeling in Hikkaduwa Beach
The Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary is committed to protecting the coral formations, which were damaged in the 2004 tsunami. You can explore the coral reef and see the marine creatures and turtles up close by going on a snorkeling tour. The tour boats depart from Hikkaduwa Beach and usually include snorkels and masks, but be sure to ask before booking. There are many tour operators on Hikkaduwa Beach that can help you arrange a snorkeling tour.
Surfing in Hikkaduwa Beach
Hikkaduwa Beach is becoming increasingly popular among surfers. It is a good surf spot with ideal waves, along with Mirissa, Hiriketiya, and Arugam Bay. Surfboards can be rented from the local surf shacks along the beach or in the small town.
Scuba diving in Hikkaduwa Beach
Hikkaduwa Beach is a great scuba diving location. The waters are clear and there are many rock outcrops and coral gardens to explore. It also offers several safe spots for beginner scuba divers to learn and enjoy the underwater experience. In between dives, you can relax by feeding and swimming with the many giant friendly green sea turtles that come right up to the shore.
Jet skiing in Hikkaduwa Beach
Jet skiing is a thrilling water sport that is popular in Hikkaduwa Beach. You can zoom through the water at high speeds and enjoy the adrenaline rush. Jet skiing is a great way to explore the coastline and see the sights from a different perspective.
Glass bottom boat tour in Hikkaduwa Beach
If you are not a fan of swimming, diving, or snorkeling, you can still enjoy the underwater world of Hikkaduwa Beach by taking a glass bottom boat tour. These boats have transparent bottoms that allow you to see the fish, coral reefs, and other marine life swimming below. This is a great way to learn about the ocean ecosystem without getting wet.
How to get Hikkaduwa Beach
There are several ways to get to Hikkaduwa Beach from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. Here are the most popular options:
- The train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Hikkaduwa takes 1 hour and 49 minutes.
- There are several buses that travel from Colombo to Hikkaduwa, with a journey time of 3-4 hours. The buses depart from the Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal every 15 minutes.
- A taxi from Colombo to Hikkaduwa will take 2-3 hours.
- If you are renting a car, the driving distance from Colombo to Hikkaduwa is 115 kilometers, with a journey time of around 2 hours.
Once you arrive in Hikkaduwa, you can easily reach the beach by foot or by tuk-tuk.
When to go Hikkaduwa Beach
The best time to visit Hikkaduwa Beach is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with an average temperature of 28°C. The sea is also calm and clear, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
The wet season runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is more humid and there is more rainfall. However, the rain usually comes in short, heavy showers, and the sun often shines in between. The sea can be a bit rough during the wet season, but it is still possible to enjoy water activities.
If you are interested in seeing turtles, the best time to visit Hikkaduwa Beach is from December to March. This is when the turtles come to lay their eggs.
How long to stay
You can easily spend a few days exploring Hikkaduwa Beach and the surrounding area. However, if you want to relax and enjoy the beach, you could easily spend a week or more here.
Budget for Visiting Hikkaduwa
The cost of a trip to Hikkaduwa Beach will vary depending on your budget. However, you can find accommodation and activities to suit all budgets.
Indulge in the freshest seafood in Hikkaduwa
After enjoying all the beach fun in Hikkaduwa Beach, you will be hungry and thirsty. Fortunately, this famous beach town is also known for its delicious food, from fresh seafood to traditional Sri Lankan dishes. Sample a variety of delicacies, such as succulent grilled prawns, mouthwatering fish curries, and flavorful rotis.
Hikkaduwa Beach is the perfect place to tantalize your taste buds with the rich flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine.
Related reading: Top 22 Most Popular Sri Lankan Foods You Should Try
Shopping in Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is known for its beautiful woodcraft, including rosewood, walnut, and oak. You can also find elephant-themed woodcraft here. Jewelry boxes and traditional masks are popular purchases. Other things to buy in Hikkaduwa include tea, batik clothing, and gems.
Top Hotels in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka
Riff Hikkaduwa
Located in Hikkaduwa, just 1.1 km from Hikkaduwa Beach, Riff Hikkaduwa is a 5-star hotel that offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. Each room at the hotel has pool views, and guests can enjoy access to a bar and a garden.
Suite Lanka
Suite Lanka is a charming and elegant hotel located on the wide sands of Hikkaduwa Beach, one of the widest beaches on Sri Lanka’s west coast. The hotel offers spacious accommodation, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon
Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon is a resort situated along Sri Lanka’s beautiful southern coast. It offers spacious rooms with private balconies and 32-inch flat-screen TVs. The resort features an outdoor pool and a PADI dive center. Guests can enjoy a good breakfast and comfortable beds during their stay.
Coral Rock by Bansei
Coral Rock by Bansei is a hotel with a great location and great value. It offers an outdoor infinity pool overlooking Hikkaduwa Beach. Free WiFi access is available for guests, and the hotel is particularly popular among women.
Citrus Hikkaduwa Resort
Citrus Hikkaduwa Resort is located just a short 10-minute drive from Hikkaduwa Town. The resort features an Ayurvedic massage center, an outdoor pool, and offers free Wi-Fi and free parking for guests.
Avenra Beach Hikkaduwa Resort
Avenra Beach Hikkaduwa Resort is a beachfront property offering an outdoor swimming pool with spa bath facilities and a private beach area. It is located in Hikkaduwa, with the beautiful Narigama Beach just 260 meters away.
