Summary:
One hundred kilometers south of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s Capital City, the beach scene begins at Hikkaduwa.
There are several beach towns to choose from in Sri Lanka. Most travelers come to Sri Lanka for the beach and only the beach. The white sandy beaches, great surf breaks, and laid-back vibe make Sri Lanka a great place to unwind and relax.
Hikkaduwa Beach, Sri Lanka
While there is so much more to see in the country, hanging out in Hikkaduwa was probably our favorite part of being in Sri Lanka.
We decided to head to the most popular sunshine destination, Hikkaduwa, as soon as we arrived in Sri Lanka from India. It is a beach filled with short-term vacationers, Aussie surfer dudes, families, and long-term expats alike.
Hikkaduwa is the perfect winter escape, and we found ourselves right in the middle of resort-style traveling.
Our reason for coming to Hikkaduwa was to play in the surf and soak up some sun. However, not everyone comes here solely to surf.
Hikkaduwa offers an excellent choice of accommodation, nightlife, and restaurants to satisfy any traveler’s needs.
We made our way to the far south end of the beach to Ocean View Cottage.
Although it is a little out of the way, it is quiet at night, with the added value of having a pool.
As much as we love the surf and sand, there is nothing like lazing by the pool, free from touts selling sarongs and jewelry, and having the option to jump in for a dip to cool down from the hot sun without the hassle of sand and salt.
About Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa could be one of those world-class destinations if it weren’t for the main highway running through the center of town.
On one side of the road, beach hotels, restaurants, and resorts are lined up along its shoulder, while the other side houses food stalls, clothing stores, and markets.
Buses, transports, jeeps, and tuk tuks barrel down the road at full tilt, making it essential to watch where you are going.
Traffic can be loud and dangerous, and shopping may become a chore. Even travel guides compare walking along the road to a game of Russian Roulette.
However, there is light at the end of the tunnel. A new road is scheduled to open in a few months several kilometers inland. This development is hoped to reduce traffic in Hikkaduwa, allowing peace and quiet to return to the locals.
When this happens, business is likely to improve for everyone involved.
Tailors in Hikkaduwa
The clothing stores of Hikkaduwa are fantastic.
They custom tailor brands like Billabong, Quicksilver, and Volcom surfwear. For just $5, you can have a brand-new pair of shorts made perfectly to your body type. You can’t even tell the difference from the real deal.
The beach is pleasant, especially to the south of the resort area.
Unfortunately, the original tourist area has given way to overdevelopment, and there is very little beach left in front of hotels built too close to the water. Some are literally being held up by sandbags.
To the south, where we are staying, the beach is wide and sandy, making it pleasant to walk along. There are very few hawkers bothering you as well.
Things to Do in Hikkaduwa
The surf is excellent for beginners, and surf shops offer lessons and board rentals.
Fresh seafood is on the menu every night, and at various hotels, you can find a different barbecue with a festive feel.
If snorkeling is your thing, you’ll find a coral garden right in front of the Coral Gardens Hotel.
We did go for a walk to the Coral Gardens hotel, and we had a chance meeting with the resident turtles of the reef.
These turtles have become quite tame, as they are often lured to shore by seaweed provided by an entrepreneur selling it to guests.
The turtles seem to enjoy coming into shore for their daily treat, allowing us to see these giant beauties in their natural habitat, even if they have become more like pets.
Hikkaduwa is an excellent place to kickstart your travels through Sri Lanka. We already feel refreshed, relaxed, and ready to explore the many sites of this tropical paradise.
Where to Stay in Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa offers various accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.
Hikkaduwa Tips
- Bus to Hikkaduwa from Colombo: 250 Rs
- Surf lessons: 20,000 Rs
- Board Rentals: 300 Rs
- Tuk Tuk around town: 150 Rs.
External Resources for Planning Your Trip
For the best flight deals, consider using Skyscanner, a resource we’ve trusted for years.
To find great hotel deals, check out providers like Booking.com if you’re in Europe, or TripAdvisor for other locations.
For apartment rentals, the cheapest prices can be found using VRBO.
Don’t forget about travel insurance. We recommend Safety Wing for occasional travelers and Medjet for global air medical transport and travel security.
To discover various activities, such as walking tours and skip-the-line tickets, consider checking out Get Your Guide.
