Things To Do
in Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is a lively beach town on Sri Lanka's southwest coast famed for its golden sands and vibrant coral reefs. Visitors flock for snorkeling, surfing, and easy access to laid-back seaside cafés along Galle Road. The town has a friendly, backpacker-friendly vibe with a mix of guesthouses, bars, and wildlife encounters within a short ride.
Year-round tropical weather keeps the atmosphere breezy and welcoming, with big coastal waves and clear blue waters.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and take a scenic drive to Hikkaduwa. Check into your beachfront hotel, allowing you to soak in the serene surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beaches to get acclimatized to the warm tropical weather.
Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a local restaurant, tasting the flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or trying some water activities such as surfing or snorkeling. Visit a nearby coral reef to witness vibrant marine life up close.
As the sun sets, dine at a beachside restaurant and enjoy the cool ocean breeze. Immerse yourself in the local nightlife as you explore the vibrant beach bars. Wind down your evening with a calming walk along the shore, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the beach.
Start the day with a Sri Lankan breakfast at your hotel, featuring delicious hoppers and fresh fruit. Then, take a guided tour of the nearby ancient temples, such as the Tsunami Museum, to learn about the local culture and history. Engage with friendly locals and take part in a traditional cooking class.
Savor the dishes you prepared for lunch, surrounded by the flavors of Sri Lankan spices. Visit a local artisan shop where you can find beautifully crafted souvenirs. Spend the late afternoon visiting the Hikkaduwa National Park for a chance to see exotic wildlife.
Enjoy a sunset cruise on a traditional fishing boat, often spotting dolphins at play. Experience a traditional Sri Lankan feast at a local family-run restaurant where warmth and hospitality abound. Reflect on your cultural experiences while enjoying a peaceful evening by the sea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $15-40 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $3-7 |
| 🎟️Attraction/activities | $2-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and coral reefs
- Friendly, easy-going vibe with strong surf culture
- Touristy areas can be crowded
- Seasonal variability in sea conditions and rainfall
- "Ayubowan" - Hello / Blessings
- "Istuti" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Boruwath inne?" - Are you well?
Places to Visit in Hikkaduwa
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over calm morning water and surfers.
Accessible reef area ideal for underwater photography and vibrant marine life shots.
Colorful shops, fishermen, and tuk-tuks line the main thoroughfare.
Ocean views with a backdrop of boats and silhouettes at dusk.
Food in Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy, sour fish curry cooked with cured or dried goraka (tamarind) and served with rice.
Must-Try!
Chopped roti fried on a hot griddle with vegetables, egg, and optional meat; a hearty street-food staple.
A platter of steamed rice with a selection of curries, dal, and sambols.
Coconut sambol served with light, bowl-shaped hoppers for a quick, flavorful bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Casual stalls along the coast offering fresh fruit, fritters, and quick snacks.
Freshly caught seafood stalls where you can pick a fish and have it cooked on the spot.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples, and speak softly in sacred spaces.
Respect personal space, avoid pointing feet at people or sacred objects, and ask permission before taking photos of locals.
Safety
Tipping in Hikkaduwa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is common in nicer places.
Cash is widely used; many shops and restaurants in tourist zones accept credit cards; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, sunny days with calm seas; great for swimming, snorkeling, and beach time.
Southwest monsoon brings stronger winds and heavier rain; seas can be rough, but waves favor surfers and crowds are smaller.
Transition period with sporadic showers; humidity stays high and beaches remain inviting.
Hikkaduwa at Night
Hiking in Hikkaduwa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest with dense biodiversity; rainforest hikes range from easy trails to more challenging routes.
Airports
How to reach Hikkaduwa by plane.
Sri Lanka's main international gateway, about 120-150 km north of Hikkaduwa; transfer by road or rail.
Small domestic airport near Galle for internal flights and charters.
South coast international gateway in Hambantota area; further away but serves some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Sinhalese with Tamil and Moorish communities; noticeable tourist presence in winter season; Buddhist temples and mosques blend into the shoreline.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
One of the region's most popular activities, with beginner-friendly breaks.
Exploring the coral sanctuary and marine life along the coast.
Casual fishing along the shore and beach volleyball.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hikkaduwa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer veg curries, dal, and lentil-based dishes; ask for separate rice with vegetable curries and dal.