Hikkaduwa beach (on the southern coast of Sri Lanka) is an absolutely stunning place with white-sand beaches and clear blue water! The beach has such a vibrant atmosphere. Hikkaduwa beach serves as a wonderful blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty.
What makes Hikkaduwa’s beach so arrestingly beautiful is the variety of vibrant marine life and coral reefs, along with a welcoming local culture. Hikkaduwa beach is ideal for surfing, romantic getaways, and exploring the beauty of the ocean! Visitors can snorkel with the tropical fish or sit on the beach with drinks in hand and watch the sunset on the Indian Ocean.
Getting to Hikkaduwa Beach
Reaching the wonder of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka is easy and enjoyable, no matter how you choose to travel. Located about 98 kilometers south of Colombo, this lively beach town is well-connected by train, bus, and taxi — making it one of the most accessible coastal destinations in the country.
By Train
Taking the train from Colombo to Hikkaduwa is one of the most scenic and affordable options. The coastal railway line runs right alongside the ocean, giving you breathtaking sea views during the 2.5-hour journey.
- Duration: Around 2.5 hours
- Cost: $1–2 USD (approx. LKR 350–700)
- Tip: Try to get a window seat on the left side for the best ocean views.
By Bus
If you’re traveling on a budget, the Colombo–Galle bus route passes directly through Hikkaduwa. Air-conditioned express buses are available throughout the day.
- Duration: Around 3 hours
- Cost: Around $1 USD (approx. LKR 350)
- Tip: Catch buses from the Colombo Central Bus Station (Pettah) for convenience.
By Taxi or Private Car
For comfort and flexibility, a private taxi or car is ideal. It’s a great option if you’re traveling with luggage or a group.
- Duration: About 2 hours via the Southern Expressway (E01)
- Cost: $40–50 USD (approx. LKR 13,000–16,000)
- Tip: Book through reputable companies or your hotel to ensure safety and reliability.
By Tuk-Tuk (For Short Distances)
Once you arrive, getting around Hikkaduwa is easiest by tuk-tuk. These three-wheelers are inexpensive and available everywhere — perfect for short rides between beaches, hotels, and restaurants.
No matter how you arrive, the journey to Hikkaduwa is part of the adventure. The closer you get, the more you’ll feel the ocean breeze and hear the waves that make this destination one of the true wonders of Sri Lanka’s coastline.
Top Attractions at Hikkaduwa Beach
There’s so much more to the wonder of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka than just its golden sands. This vibrant coastal town is filled with exciting activities, colorful marine life, and cultural treasures that make every visit unforgettable. Whether you want to dive under the waves, explore local history, or simply relax under a palm tree, Hikkaduwa has it all.
🐠 Snorkeling at the Coral Sanctuary
One of Hikkaduwa’s most famous attractions is its Coral Sanctuary, located just a few meters from the shore. Here, you can swim among colorful corals and hundreds of tropical fish in crystal-clear waters.
- Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Snorkeling Trip (with boat, entry fee & equipment): US$ 48
🤿 Fun & Amateur Diving in Hikkaduwa
- Discover Scuba Diving for Adults (Two dives) – US$ 54
- Bubble Maker for Children (Ages 8–12, Two dives) – US$ 60
- Discover Scuba Diving (1 shallow + 1 deeper dive) – US$ 96
🧜♂️ For Certified Divers
- Single Dive (All equipment included) – US$ 48
- Single Dive (Tank, weight & boat only) – US$ 42
- 2 Dives in One Trip (All equipment included) – US$ 90
- 2 Dives in One Trip (Tank, weight & boat only) – US$ 78
- 10 Dive Package (All equipment included) – US$ 426
- 10 Dive Package (Tank, weight & boat only) – US$ 354
Note: Extra US$ 12 charged for night dives.
🎓 Certificate Diving Courses
- Scuba Diver Course – US$ 336
- Open Water Diver Course – US$ 450
- Open Water Referral (for certified divers) – US$ 318
🏆 Advanced Diving Courses in Hikkaduwa
- Open Water Completion (after online theory) – US$ 366
- Advanced Open Water Diver – US$ 378
- Emergency First Response – US$ 234
- Rescue Diver – US$ 486
- Enriched Air Diver (2 dives) – US$ 294
- Deep/Wreck Diver (4 dives each) / Night Diver (3 dives) – US$ 306
- Underwater Photographer / Navigator (2 dives) – US$ 282
- Peak Performance Buoyancy / Search & Recovery / Naturalist / Fish ID – US$ 252
📍 Tip for Travelers
All activities include professional instructors, safety gear, and guided experiences. Prices may vary slightly by season or dive center.
Snorkeling cost at Hikkaduwa Beach– Source
🐢 Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery
A short drive from the main beach, this turtle conservation center lets you get close to adorable baby turtles and learn how locals protect endangered species. It’s an educational and heartwarming experience for travelers of all ages.
- Entry Fee: LKR 1000–2000 per person
- Highlight: Watch turtle hatchlings being released into the ocean at sunset!
🏄♂️ Surfing Adventures
Hikkaduwa is one of Sri Lanka’s best surf spots, perfect for beginners and pros alike. Waves are consistent, and surf schools offer lessons for all levels.
- Best Surfing Season: November to April
- Surfboard Rental: Around $10 per day
- Popular Surf Points: Main Reef, Benny’s, and North Jetty
Tip: Morning hours offer the best waves and fewer crowds.
🪸 Hikkaduwa National Park
Declared a Marine National Park, this protected area preserves a rich coral ecosystem that’s home to over 60 coral species and 170 types of reef fish. It’s a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
- Entry Fee: LKR 380 or INR 150
- Activities: Glass-bottom boat rides, reef snorkeling, and guided eco-tours
🌅 Sunset Watching at Narigama Beach
For those who love peaceful evenings, Narigama Beach is a must-visit. Stretching for nearly 4 km, it’s ideal for sunset walks, swimming, or relaxing with a drink at a beach café.
For those who love peaceful evenings, Narigama Beach is a must-visit. Stretching for nearly 4 km, it’s ideal for sunset walks, swimming, or relaxing with a drink at a beach café.
- Best Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
- Tip: Visit Top Secret Beach Bar or Funky de Bar for the perfect sunset view with tropical vibes.
Local Food & Beachfront Dining
When exploring the wonder of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka, one of the most unforgettable experiences is enjoying its delicious local food and vibrant beachfront dining scene. Hikkaduwa isn’t just about golden sands and waves — it’s also a paradise for food lovers who crave fresh seafood, tropical flavors, and sunset meals by the ocean.
🦞 Signature Seafood Dishes
Hikkaduwa is heaven for seafood enthusiasts. Freshly caught fish, prawns, lobsters, and crabs are cooked to perfection at beachside restaurants.
- Popular Spots:
- 🐚 Refresh Restaurant & Beach Bar – Famous for its grilled lobster and seafood platter ($10–15 USD).
- 🍹 No.1 Roti Shop – Serves local roti, curries, and quick bites (around LKR 700–1000).
Tip: Enjoy your meal during sunset for the most breathtaking ocean views.
🥥 Tropical Drinks & Beach Snacks
As you walk along the beach, you’ll find refreshing tropical drinks and light snacks everywhere. Sip a fresh coconut, fruit smoothie, or iced coffee while listening to the sound of the waves.
- Recommended Cafés:
- Tiggle Café – Known for healthy smoothies and vegan options ($5–7 USD).
- Salty Swamis Café & Surf Shop – Perfect for brunch, coffee, and surf vibes.
🍛 Taste of Authentic Sri Lankan Cuisine
Don’t miss trying the island’s famous traditional meals such as rice & curry, hoppers, and kottu roti. Each dish is rich in spices, flavor, and local culture.
- Average Cost: LKR 800–1500 per meal.
- Many restaurants also offer vegetarian and vegan options.
🌅 Sunset Dining Experience
Evenings in Hikkaduwa are pure magic. Watching the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying a beachside dinner is something truly special.
- Best Spots for Sunset Dining: Top Secret Beach Bar, Funky de Bar, Mamas Coral Beach Café.
From fresh seafood and tropical cocktails to cozy beachfront cafés, the food scene at Hikkaduwa Beach captures the heart of coastal life. Each meal here tells a story of Sri Lankan warmth, flavor, and seaside charm — making dining itself one of the great wonders of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka.
Accommodation Guide
Whether you’re a backpacker looking for budget stays, a couple searching for comfort, or a family seeking a seaside escape, the wonder of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka offers accommodation for every traveler and budget. From cozy guesthouses to luxury beachfront resorts, the choices are endless — all just steps away from the turquoise waters.
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
If you’re traveling on a budget, Hikkaduwa has plenty of hostels and guesthouses that offer comfort and convenience without breaking the bank.
- 🏠 Blue Fox Hostel – Clean, cozy, and great for meeting other travelers. Dorm beds and private rooms available. (From $15–25 per night)
- 🌿 Vibration Hotel – A lively spot near the beach, famous for its weekend parties and local vibe. (From $20–30 per night)
- Tip: Choose a place near Narigama Beach for easy access to food stalls and surf points.
🏝️ Mid-Range Hotels
Perfect for couples or small families, these hotels offer comfort, scenic views, and beachfront relaxation at affordable prices.
- 🏖️ Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon – A top-rated beachfront hotel with an infinity pool, sea-view rooms, and great dining options. (Around $80–120 per night)
- 🌅 Coral Rock by Bansei – Stylish rooms, a beachfront pool, and easy access to snorkeling spots. (Around $70–100 per night)
- Tip: Book in advance during November–April (peak season).
🌺 Luxury Resorts
If you’re after a lavish getaway, Hikkaduwa’s luxury resorts combine modern elegance with Sri Lankan charm — ideal for honeymoons or relaxing retreats.
- 🌊 Coral Sands Hotel – Located right on the beach, offering sea-facing rooms, a spa, and diving lessons. (Around $150–200 per night)
- 🐚 Riff Hikkaduwa – A 5-star resort known for its breathtaking ocean views, gourmet dining, and rooftop infinity pool. (From $250+ per night)
- Tip: Many luxury resorts offer yoga classes, spa treatments, and water sports packages.
🧭 Accommodation Tips for Travelers
- ✅ Book online via trusted platforms like Booking.com or Agoda.
- ✅ Check if your stay includes free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
- ✅ For the best experience, stay within walking distance of the main beach or Narigama area.
- ✅ In off-season (May–October), prices drop by up to 30–40% — a great time for budget travelers!
Best Time to Visit
Planning your trip at the right time can make all the difference when exploring the wonder of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka. This beautiful coastal town offers sunny days, calm seas, and vibrant beach life for most of the year — but some months are especially perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing.
☀️ Peak Season (November – April)
This is the best time to visit Hikkaduwa Beach. The weather is warm, the sea is calm, and underwater visibility is excellent — ideal for snorkeling and diving.
- Average Temperature: 27°C–32°C (80°F–90°F)
- Sea Conditions: Clear and calm, perfect for water sports
- Highlights: Coral watching, surfing, turtle spotting, and lively beach parties
Tip: Book your accommodation early, as this is the most popular time among both locals and foreign travelers.
🌧️ Off-Season (May – October)
During these months, the southwest monsoon brings occasional rain and stronger waves, making it less suitable for swimming. However, it’s still a great time for those seeking peace, quiet, and lower prices.
- Advantages: Fewer crowds, up to 40% cheaper hotel rates
- Activities: Explore cultural sites, visit Galle Fort, enjoy Ayurvedic spa treatments, or take scenic train rides
- Note: Some water activities may be limited due to rough seas.
🌅 Ideal Time of Day
No matter when you visit, sunrise and sunset are magical at Hikkaduwa Beach. Mornings are perfect for surfing or yoga, while evenings offer spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
In short, the perfect time to experience the wonder of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka is from November to April, when the island’s southern coast comes alive with sunshine, surf, and tropical beauty. Whether you prefer adventure or relaxation, this is when Hikkaduwa reveals its true charm.
Nearby Places to Visit
While the wonder of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka is a destination in itself, the surrounding area is filled with fascinating attractions that showcase the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Just a short drive from Hikkaduwa, you’ll find ancient temples, heritage forts, and peaceful beaches that make your trip even more memorable.
🏰 Galle Fort – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Located about 25 minutes south of Hikkaduwa, the Galle Fort is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch, it’s a living piece of history filled with cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutique cafés, and colonial architecture.
- Highlights: Old Lighthouse, Dutch Reformed Church, Maritime Museum
- Entry Fee: Free
- Tip: Visit in the evening for a breathtaking sunset view over the fort walls.
🌊 Seenigama Vihara Temple
Just 2 km north of Hikkaduwa, this small temple sits on a tiny island in the sea — a truly unique and spiritual sight. Locals believe that the temple brings good luck and blessings.
- How to Visit: A short boat ride from Seenigama village
- Entry: Donations welcome
- Tip: Visit early morning for a peaceful and quiet experience.
🐢 Tsunami Honganji Vihara & Tsunami Photo Museum
A few minutes away from Hikkaduwa, these two sites stand as heartfelt memorials to the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. The temple houses a massive Buddha statue facing the ocean, and the small museum shares powerful stories and photographs from the event.
- Entry Fee: Around LKR 300
- Tip: A meaningful stop to understand local resilience and history.
🐠 Unawatuna Beach
Only a 40-minute drive from Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna Beach is another coastal gem with clear turquoise water, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Activities: Beach cafés, diving centers, and relaxing spa spots
- Tip: Don’t miss the Japanese Peace Pagoda nearby for panoramic ocean views.
🐘 Ambalangoda Mask Village
About 12 km north of Hikkaduwa, Ambalangoda is famous for its traditional wooden masks and puppetry. You can visit mask workshops to see how these colorful creations are made — and even buy one as a souvenir.
- Entry Fee: Free or small donation
- Tip: Visit the Ariyapala Mask Museum to learn about Sri Lankan folklore.
Each of these destinations adds a unique layer to your coastal adventure. From spiritual temples and cultural landmarks to nearby beaches and villages, exploring beyond Hikkaduwa will help you experience the true spirit and wonder of Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
Practical Travel Tips
To make the most of your visit to the wonder of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka, it’s important to plan ahead and be mindful of local customs, safety, and practicalities. Here are some essential tips for a smooth and enjoyable trip:
✅ Respect Marine Life
Hikkaduwa is famous for its coral reefs and marine creatures.
- Avoid touching corals or turtles — it can harm them.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the ocean ecosystem.
- Follow local guidelines for snorkeling and diving.
✅ Best Transport Options
- Tuk-tuks are convenient for short trips around town — always agree on a price before riding.
- Renting a bicycle or scooter is another easy way to explore the beaches and nearby attractions.
- Public transport (buses/trains) is budget-friendly but can get crowded during peak hours.
✅ Stay Hydrated and Protected
- Bring a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of fluids — the tropical sun can be intense.
- Sunglasses, hats, and lightweight clothing are essential.
- Carry a light rain jacket if visiting during the monsoon (May–October).
✅ Money & Payments
- Cash (LKR) is widely used for small shops, beach rentals, and tuk-tuks.
- ATMs are available, but carrying some cash is recommended.
- Credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants.
✅ Safety Tips
- Swim only in designated areas; avoid rough seas during monsoon season.
- Keep an eye on your belongings at crowded beaches.
- Avoid walking alone on isolated beaches after dark.
✅ Plan Your Activities
- Book popular activities like snorkeling trips, surf lessons, or turtle hatchery visits in advance during peak season (November–April).
- Combine beach time with nearby sightseeing — Galle Fort, Seenigama Temple, and Ambalangoda Mask Village are all within easy reach.
By following these practical travel tips, your trip to Hikkaduwa will be safe, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible. Being prepared ensures that you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
Hikkaduwa Beach is more than just a destination — it’s a tropical wonder that captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s southern coast. From its golden sands and turquoise waters to vibrant coral reefs, delicious seafood, and unforgettable sunsets, every moment here is an experience to treasure. Whether you’re surfing the waves, snorkeling among colorful fish, exploring nearby cultural sites, or simply relaxing by the ocean, Hikkaduwa offers something for every traveler.
Plan Your Trip Today!
Don’t wait to experience the magic of Hikkaduwa Beach. Book your stay, explore the marine wonders, taste the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and adventure that make the wonder of Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka truly unforgettable.
👉 Call to Action:
“Start planning your Hikkaduwa getaway now — dive into crystal-clear waters, enjoy sunset dinners by the sea, and create memories that will last a lifetime!”
Read more about Arugam Bay, Wonder of Trincomalee Sri Lanka, in our other travel articles.
