Hikkaduwa Beach: Beach and coral sanctuary

Description

Hikkaduwa Beach is a vibrant coastal destination on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, famous for its golden sands, turquoise waters, coral reefs, and lively nightlife. Located about 100 km south of Colombo, it is one of Sri Lanka’s best beaches for surfing, snorkeling, and diving. The Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary, just offshore, is home to colorful marine life, sea turtles, and tropical fish, making it a top spot for eco-tourism.

Visitor Fee

• Free entry to the beach.
• Snorkeling & diving tours cost ~$20–$50 USD, depending on the package.
• Surfboard rentals start at ~$5–$10 USD per hour.

Transportation

• By Car/Taxi:
  • From Colombo (~2 hours, 100 km) via the Southern Expressway.
  • From Galle (~30 minutes, 20 km).
• By Train:
  • Take a train from Colombo to Hikkaduwa (~2 hours) with scenic coastal views.
• By Bus:
  • Regular express and local buses from Colombo, Galle, and Matara.

Things to Do

1. Surfing – One of the best surfing spots in Sri Lanka, ideal for beginners and pros.
2. Snorkeling & Scuba Diving – Explore coral reefs, tropical fish, and shipwrecks.
3. Sea Turtle Watching – Visit the turtle hatchery or spot turtles near the shore.
4. Glass-Bottom Boat Rides – See vibrant marine life without getting wet.
5. Relaxing on the Beach – Enjoy sunbathing, beach bars, and fresh seafood.
6. Nightlife & Beach Parties – Experience beachside bars, live music, and DJ parties.
7. Coconut & Juice Stalls – Try fresh tropical fruits and coconuts by the shore.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here

• Clear blue waters and golden sand.
• Perfect for surfing, snorkeling, and diving.
• Relaxed beach atmosphere with lively nightlife.
• Easy access to local seafood restaurants.
• Chance to see and interact with sea turtles.

Age of the Beach

• Hikkaduwa has been a tourist hotspot since the 1960s, but the natural beach and coral reef have existed for thousands of years.

List of Activities

• Surfing
• Snorkeling & diving
• Glass-bottom boat rides
• Turtle watching
• Jet skiing & water sports
• Beach parties & nightlife
• Sunset photography

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary – A protected marine park with vibrant coral reefs.
2. Seenigama Vihara Temple – A small island temple accessible by boat (~2 km).
3. Galle Fort – A UNESCO-listed colonial fort with historic streets (~20 km).
4. Tsunami Memorial Museum – Learn about the 2004 tsunami’s impact (~5 km).
5. Madu River Safari – A mangrove boat tour with island stops (~30 km).