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Hikkaduwa, the back story
The back story
About Hikkaduwa, the back story
Hikkaduwa, about 20 km north of Galle, was one of the first beach resorts on the island to attract international travellers, and it is still the liveliest town on the south-west coast, with a shallow coral reef, good surf and a long strip of guesthouses and bars.
The reef
The shallow coral reef in front of the town is protected as Hikkaduwa National Park. Sea turtles often feed near the shore: watch them from a distance and never feed or touch them.
The surf
Hikkaduwa has several breaks, from beginner waves to reef breaks for experienced surfers, best from about November to April.
In Hikkaduwa you can snorkel with turtles in the morning and dance on the sand at night.
The town
The main road runs behind the beach, lined with guesthouses, restaurants, surf shops and bars. Galle Fort is about half an hour away, and the train stops in town on the coast line from Colombo.
When to go
The season runs from about November to April. From May to September the sea is rough and many places slow down.
Our advice: stay in Hikkaduwa if you want a lively beach town with surf and nightlife, and make a day trip to Galle Fort; for quiet, head further south.
Why it's on our list
- The reef
- The surf
- The town
- When to go
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Hikkaduwa, the back story before you go.