Hikkaduwa

About

Hikkaduwa is a popular beach town in the Galle District, about 17 kilometres northwest of Galle. It combines a busy coastal town, a long beach, surf breaks, restaurants, guesthouses and access to Hikkaduwa National Park.

The coast has two main visitor areas. The reef area near Hikkaduwa town can have calmer water during the dry season and is the main place for snorkelling and glass-bottom boat trips. Farther south, Narigama Beach has a wider stretch of sand and is better known for surfing, sunsets and beachfront cafes.

Hikkaduwa’s shallow reef supports fish and other marine life, but parts of the coral have been damaged by storms and human activity. Visitors should view the reef responsibly, avoid touching marine animals and never stand on coral.

Highlights

• Visit the coastal section of Hikkaduwa National Park when the sea is calm and visibility is suitable.

• Snorkel above the shallow reef or take a glass-bottom boat trip with a responsible operator.

• Surf at Narigama Beach during the main southwest-coast surf season.

• Relax on the sand and watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

• Try Sri Lankan seafood, rice and curry, and other dishes at the town’s beachfront restaurants.

• Join a seasonal dive trip to nearby reef and wreck sites if you have suitable experience or use a qualified dive centre.

When to visit

December to April is generally the best period for Hikkaduwa. These months usually bring drier weather and calmer seas on the southwest coast, although conditions can change from day to day. Surfing is commonly best from November to April, while snorkelling requires calm water and good visibility.

From May to October, the southwest monsoon can bring heavier rain, stronger currents and rough seas. Accommodation may be quieter and less expensive, but some water activities can be limited. Always follow local warnings and check sea conditions before swimming.

How to get there

Hikkaduwa is on the coastal railway between Colombo and Galle. Trains from Colombo Fort commonly take about two to three hours, depending on the service, while the journey from Galle is much shorter. Timetables can change, so check the latest schedule before travelling.

By road, Hikkaduwa is around 100 kilometres from central Colombo. A private vehicle using the Southern Expressway usually takes about two to three hours, depending on traffic and the starting point. Travel from Bandaranaike International Airport often takes around three hours or longer. Regular local buses also connect Hikkaduwa with Galle, Ambalangoda and other towns along the A2 coastal road.

Travel tips

• Do not touch, chase or feed turtles, fish or other marine animals. Sightings are not guaranteed.

• Never stand on coral, and choose boat operators that do not anchor on the reef.

• Swim only when conditions are safe and follow beach flags, lifeguards and local advice.

• Use an experienced surf school if you are a beginner, as reef breaks and currents require care.

• Agree on the fare before taking an unmetered tuk-tuk.

• Take care when crossing the busy A2 road through town.

• Carry sun protection and drinking water, especially around midday.