Hikkaduwa
Your complete travel guide to Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka — discover the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get there.
About Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is Sri Lanka's original beach party town, a surfer's paradise that has been welcoming travelers since the 1970s. Located 98 kilometers south of Colombo, this lively coastal town offers something for everyone - from world-class surfing waves to protected coral reefs teeming with marine life.
The Hikkaduwa National Park (Coral Sanctuary) is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see colorful coral and tropical fish without scuba diving. Glass-bottom boats take visitors over the reef, and snorkeling here often includes encounters with friendly sea turtles that swim right up to swimmers.
The town itself has a relaxed, hippie vibe with beach bars, reggae music, and a mix of budget accommodations and boutique hotels. The main beach is long and sandy, with the best surfing at the northern end. Whether you're here to catch waves, explore underwater worlds, or simply soak up the sun, Hikkaduwa delivers.
Best Time to Visit
November to April — The dry season offers the best conditions for surfing and snorkeling. Surf season peaks November to March with consistent waves.
Quick Facts
Best Time
November - April
Min. Days
2-3 days
From Colombo
2-2.5 hours
Known For
Surfing, coral reef, turtles
Things to Do in Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary
A protected marine area with vibrant coral gardens and abundant fish. One of the best snorkeling spots in Sri Lanka with calm, shallow waters.
Tip: Glass-bottom boats available for non-swimmers. Best visibility in morning.
Surfing
The northern end of the beach offers consistent waves suitable for beginners and intermediates. Several surf schools offer lessons and board rentals.
Tip: Best waves November to March. Beach break is forgiving for beginners.
Sea Turtle Beach
Sea turtles regularly visit this section of beach and will swim up to snorkelers. An incredible wildlife encounter in shallow water.
Tip: Morning is best. Don't touch or chase the turtles.
Tsunami Museum
A moving memorial to the 2004 tsunami that devastated this coast. Photos and stories document the disaster and recovery.
Seenigama Temple
A unique Buddhist temple built on a small island just offshore. Accessible by boat and known for its spiritual significance.
Moonstone Mines
Visit Meetiyagoda to see how Sri Lanka's famous moonstones are mined and polished. Tours of the mines are available.
Getting to Hikkaduwa
By Train
Direct trains from Colombo Fort. Beautiful coastal scenery. Station is in town center.
By Bus
Frequent buses from Colombo Central Bus Station.
By Taxi/Car
Via Southern Expressway to Galle, then coastal road.
Getting Around Hikkaduwa
The main beach strip is walkable. Rent a bicycle or scooter for exploring further. Tuk-tuks available everywhere.
Where to Stay in Hikkaduwa
Hostels & Budget
- Funky Monkey Hostel$
Mid-Range Hotels
- Drift Hikkaduwa$$
- Neela's Guesthouse$
- Avenra Beach Hotel$$
Luxury Hotels
- Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon$$$
Where to Eat in Hikkaduwa
- Spaghetti & Co(Italian)$$
- Refresh Restaurant(Seafood)$$
- Cool Spot(Local)$
- Roti Shop(Sri Lankan)$
Hikkaduwa FAQs
Is Hikkaduwa good for beginner surfers?
Yes! The beach break at the northern end offers gentle waves perfect for learning. Several surf schools offer lessons with patient instructors.
Can you snorkel at Hikkaduwa?
Absolutely. The Coral Sanctuary offers excellent snorkeling with colorful fish and coral. You can also swim with sea turtles at Turtle Beach.
Is Hikkaduwa a party town?
Hikkaduwa has a lively nightlife scene with beach bars and occasional parties, but it's not as intense as some other beach destinations. It's more laid-back reggae vibes.
How does Hikkaduwa compare to Unawatuna?
Hikkaduwa is larger, better for surfing, and has more nightlife. Unawatuna has a smaller, calmer bay better for swimming. Both have great snorkeling.
External Resources
Learn more about Hikkaduwa from these authoritative sources: