Hikkaduwa
One of the original backpacker beaches, with a lively strip, surf breaks for intermediates and green turtles that feed close to shore. The coral reef is recovering; snorkel only with guides who keep you off it.
Region
The South Coast
Best time
December to April
Time needed
2–3 days
From the airport
≈ 4.5 h by road
Hikkaduwa was one of the first beach towns on the south-west coast to attract international travellers, and it still has the liveliest beach strip on the coast. Today it is known for its surf, green turtles that feed right off the beach and a busy bar and restaurant scene. It sits about 20 km north of Galle.
Things to do
- Green turtles — they come close to shore to graze on seaweed, especially around the main beach. Please don't feed them (seaweed sold to tourists makes them dependent) and don't touch or chase them.
- Surfing — several breaks for intermediate surfers, with schools and board rental along the beach.
- Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary — a shallow reef protected as a national park. The coral was badly damaged by bleaching and the 2004 tsunami and is slowly recovering; snorkel only with guides who keep you off the reef.
- Diving — dive centres run trips to wrecks and reefs offshore from November to April.
- Tsunami Photo Museum and Peraliya memorial — a sobering reminder of 2004, when a train near here was struck by the waves.
- Seenigama Temple — an island temple just north of town.
When to visit
November to April. From May to September the sea is rough and most beach businesses close.
Getting there
About 1.5–2 hours from Colombo via the Southern Expressway, 30 minutes from Galle, and on the coastal railway line.
Who it suits
Hikkaduwa suits travellers who want a social atmosphere, surfing and nightlife. For a quieter stay, head to Unawatuna, Ahangama or Tangalle.
Hikkaduwa: frequently asked questions
Can you swim with turtles in Hikkaduwa?
Turtles often feed close to shore. You can watch them in the water, but keep a respectful distance and never feed or touch them.
Is Hikkaduwa good for surfing?
Yes, especially for intermediate surfers. Beginners may prefer Weligama.
Is Hikkaduwa a party town?
It is livelier than most south coast towns, with bars and beach parties in peak season, but it is not a large-scale party destination.
Map and getting there
Approximate road times (Sri Lanka’s roads are slow — allow extra time for traffic and stops): Colombo airport (CMB) ≈ 4.5 h · Kandy ≈ 5 h · Galle ≈ 45 min. For flexible door-to-door travel, consider a local driver.
Related travel guides
More places near Hikkaduwa
natureThe South Coast
Madu River Mangroves (Balapitiya)
A slow boat trip through mangrove channels and past small islands on the Madu Ganga wetland, including a cinnamon-peeling island and a tiny island temple. Choose operators who keep speed and noise down.
Best: December to April
heritageThe South Coast
Galle Fort
A UNESCO-listed walled town on a headland, built by the Portuguese and fortified by the Dutch in the 1600s. Walk the ramparts at sunset, browse boutiques in the old streets and stay inside the walls for the atmosphere.
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beachThe South Coast
Jungle Beach (Unawatuna)
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Best: December to April
Last updated November 2026. December to April. Whale watching from Mirissa runs November to April.