Hikkaduwa Beach – Sri Lanka’s Original Beach Escape

Located along the southern coast in Sri Lanka’s Galle District, Hikkaduwa is a lively beach town known for its golden sands, turquoise waves, and vibrant coral reef. It was one of the first places on the island to attract international travelers and it still remains a top choice for sun-seekers, surfers, and nature lovers alike.

The main highlight is the beach itself, featuring the Coral Sanctuary, a protected marine area with shallow reefs full of colorful sea life. It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling, especially for beginners. Or, if you’d rather stay dry, hop on a glass-bottom boat to enjoy the view of the reef from above.

One of the most unique experiences in Hikkaduwa is seeing wild sea turtles up close. These gentle creatures often swim near the shore and can sometimes be spotted feeding, especially around sunrise or sunset.

Beyond the beach, you’ll find plenty of cozy cafés, seafood restaurants, and small shops to explore. Nearby attractions include the historic Galle Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Tsunami Museum (a memorial to the victims of the 2004 tsunami), and the Seenigama Devalaya, a small temple on an offshore islet.

Hikkaduwa is one of the best places to experience Sri Lanka’s original beach culture relaxed, colorful, and full of life.

Top Activities in Hikkaduwa

• Snorkel the Coral Sanctuary
  Explore shallow reefs teeming with colorful marine life — ideal for families and first-timers.
• Surf the Waves
  The waves are great for both beginners and experienced surfers, especially from November to April. Surfboards and lessons are widely available.
• Meet the Sea Turtles
  Spot wild turtles up close near the shore; early morning and sunset are best.
• Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
  Perfect for non-swimmers to view the vibrant coral and fish just offshore.
• Visit the Tsunami Museum & Memorial
  A sobering, heartfelt look into the 2004 tsunami and its impact on the region.
• Explore Galle Fort
  A 45-minute tuk-tuk ride takes you to this Dutch-era fort with cobbled streets and colonial charm.
• Enjoy Seafood Beach Dining
  Eat freshly grilled fish, prawns, and crab right on the sand under lantern-lit skies.

Activity Price Guide

Activity	Price Range (USD)	Details
Snorkeling Gear Rental	$3–5	Masks and fins available on the beach.
Glass-Bottom Boat Ride	$5–10 per person	30–60 minutes; ideal for reef and turtle views.
Surfboard Rental	$4–7 per hour	Lessons available for $10–15.
Sea Turtle Feeding Experience	Free / Tip-based	Bring seaweed or buy from locals.
Tsunami Memorial / Museum	Free	Run by local families; deeply informative.
Galle Fort Day Trip (Tuktuk)	$10–15	Negotiate round-trip tuk-tuk fare.
Beachside Seafood Dinner	$8–20 per person	Prices depend on size and catch of the day.

*Prices may vary.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season : November to April (ideal for beach weather and calm seas).
• Surf Season : November to March (best wave conditions).
• Rainy Season : May to October (rougher seas, fewer crowds).

Pro Tips

• Bring reef-safe sunscreen : To protect coral life.
• Stay near the beach strip : Enjoy walkable access to restaurants and activities.
• Use cash : Many local vendors don’t accept cards.
• Respect marine life : Avoid touching coral or turtles.
• Book early : Book accommodations early during peak months (Dec–Feb).
• Try local seafood : Lobster and crab are specialties here.
• Combine your trip : Combine your trip with visits to Unawatuna, Galle, or Mirissa for more southern coast exploration.