Hikkaduwa

Reefs, Turtles, Surf, and Sri Lanka's Liveliest Beach

Hikkaduwa first gained international fame in the 1960s and 70s as a stop on the hippie trail across Asia. Decades later it has grown and modernised, but still retains the energy that made it famous — world-class snorkelling on its famous coral reefs, sea turtles that swim directly to shore, solid surf breaks, and the liveliest beach nightlife on the south coast.

1. Hikkaduwa National Marine Sanctuary

The coral reef begins just metres from shore — protected as a National Marine Sanctuary. Snorkelling here is extraordinarily easy: wade out from the beach, put your face in the water, and you are immediately over a living reef hosting over 60 species of coral and hundreds of tropical fish. No boat, guide, or experience needed.

2. The Famous Sea Turtles

Large Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles regularly feed on the reef close to shore. It is not uncommon to be snorkelling and have a turtle surface for air just a metre away — genuinely magical. Best in the mornings, in the shallow water directly in front of the beach strip. Please do not touch or chase them.

3. Surfing

One of the original surf spots in Sri Lanka. The main right-hander break works best November to April with waves of 2–6 feet. Better suited to intermediate surfers than Weligama. Several surf schools offer lessons and board rental at very reasonable prices.

4. Diving the SS Conch Wreck

A 90-metre steamship that sank in 1903, now resting at 18–28 metres depth — encrusted with coral and home to enormous schools of fish, batfish, and reef sharks. One of the best wreck dives in Sri Lanka.

5. Nightlife

The main strip comes alive after sunset with open-air bars and restaurants right on the sand. Fresh seafood by the beach, live music, fire shows, and DJ sets at popular spots like Refresh and various beach bars. A grittier, more independent energy than the resort-orientated Bentota.

6. Gangarama Maha Viharaya (Lake Temple)

A beautiful Buddhist temple on a small island in a lake behind the beach strip — accessible by a narrow walkway over the water. Colourful painted walls, a reclining Buddha, and large monitor lizards basking on the surrounding banks.

Practical Travel Tips

• Best Season: November to April for swimming, snorkelling, surfing, and diving.
• Getting There: About 100km from Colombo — 2 hours via the Southern Expressway.
• Coral Care: Do not stand on or touch the coral while snorkelling. Wear reef-safe sunscreen.
• Combo: Easily combined with Galle Fort and Mirissa on the same south coast road trip.