Things To Do
in Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is a vibrant coastal town located in southern Sri Lanka known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs. It is a popular destination for beach lovers, surfers, and snorkelers due to its clear waters and diverse marine life. The town offers a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of beachfront restaurants, bars, and shops catering to tourists.
Hikkaduwa's vibrant nightlife scene and lively beach parties make it a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy both relaxation and entertainment.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Suba dawasak" - Good day
- "Aparada" - Sorry
- "Hondai" - Good
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a serene walk along Hikkaduwa Beach, enjoying the gentle waves and warm sun. Grab a fresh coconut from a local vendor to kickstart your morning.
Spend your afternoon snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs, where you can see colorful fish and marine life. Consider renting a kayak to explore the nearby lagoon at your own pace.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic evening with the sound of the ocean in the background.
Get an early start with a surf lesson at one of Hikkaduwa's famous surf spots. Enjoy the thrill of catching your first wave with an experienced instructor.
After surfing, relax at a beach café with a refreshing smoothie while soaking up the sun. You can also explore local shops and buy souvenirs to remember your trip.
Join a lively beachfront party with live music and dancing. Enjoy delicious street food as you mingle with locals and fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Rich marine life and coral reefs, making it a popular spot for scuba diving.
- Vibrant nightlife with various bars, restaurants, and music venues.
- Friendly local culture and welcoming hospitality from residents.
- Availability of various water sports and activities such as surfing and whale watching.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, affecting the tranquility of the beaches.
- Some areas may face environmental issues due to tourism and littering.
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare facilities compared to larger cities.
- Humidity and tropical climate may not be suitable for everyone.
- Transportation options can be limited, making it challenging to explore nearby areas without a private vehicle.
Best Activities in Hikkaduwa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life in the clear waters of Hikkaduwa by snorkeling.
Hikkaduwa is known for its surf breaks, making it a popular spot for surfers of all levels.
Discover the underwater world of Hikkaduwa through diving and witness a variety of marine species and shipwrecks.
Enjoy a game of beach volleyball along the sandy shores of Hikkaduwa.
Take a boat ride to explore the coastline, go dolphin watching, or enjoy a sunset cruise.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hikkaduwa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hikkaduwa
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its beautiful sunsets and clear waters, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Offers a panoramic view of the coastline and is a great spot for capturing coastal landscapes.
Scenic beach with palm trees and calm waters, providing great photo opportunities.
Food in Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Sri Lankan dish made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, creating a crispy-edged pancake with a soft center. Best enjoyed with seeni sambol (caramelized onion relish) and lunu miris (spicy sambal). Find authentic hoppers at Da-Silva Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A Dutch-influenced rice dish featuring a mix of meat, vegetables, and sambal chili sauce, all wrapped in a banana leaf and baked. Head to Mama's Kitchen for a delicious serving of lamprais.
A flavorful street food dish made from shredded roti, vegetables, and your choice of meat or eggs, all stir-fried with aromatic spices on a flat iron griddle. Don't miss the Kottu at The White Crab restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hikkaduwa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Sunday, the bustling market comes alive with an array of street food stalls offering an assortment of local snacks, including fish cutlets, samosas, and traditional sweets like kokis and kavum.
Along Galle Road, you'll find an enticing selection of food stalls serving up freshly caught seafood, spicy curries, and tropical fruit smoothies, providing a true taste of local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting Hikkaduwa, it's important to show respect for the numerous Buddhist temples and shrines in the area. Visitors should dress modestly and remove shoes before entering these sacred sites.
Hikkaduwa is known for its beautiful beaches and marine life. It's important to be mindful of environmental conservation efforts, such as avoiding littering and supporting sustainable tourism practices.
When interacting with locals, it's customary to greet them with a friendly 'Ayubowan' (May you live long) in the Sinhala language. It's also polite to use your right hand for giving and receiving, as the left hand is considered unclean in Sri Lankan culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hikkaduwa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hikkaduwa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka, tipping is not always expected but is appreciated in hotels, restaurants, and for tour guides or drivers. A 10% service charge is often added to the bill in restaurants, so tipping beyond that is discretionary.
Payment in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka is predominantly done in cash, and credit cards may be accepted in larger hotels or restaurants. It's advisable to carry enough cash, as ATMs may be limited in the area.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hikkaduwa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Hikkaduwa is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. This is the peak tourist season, with calm seas and plenty of sunshine. It's perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
During the inter-monsoon season from April to September, you can expect intermittent rain showers and slightly rougher seas. However, this period can be a good time to visit for surfers as the waves are ideal for riding.
These months signal the arrival of the southwest monsoon, bringing heavy rainfall and rough seas. It's not the best time for beach activities, but the lush greenery and reduced tourist crowds can make for a more relaxed holiday experience.
Hikkaduwa at Night
Hiking in Hikkaduwa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A coastal national park known for its rich marine biodiversity, beautiful coral reefs, and opportunities for snorkeling, making it great for hiking along the beaches and coastal trails.
Located about 25 kilometers from Hikkaduwa, this reserve offers trails through lush forests, providing a chance to see unique flora and fauna, waterfalls, and various wildlife.
A UNESCO World Heritage site about 60 kilometers from Hikkaduwa, known for its biodiversity. It features numerous trails that allow for exploration of its rich ecosystem.
A charming small island near Hikkaduwa that can be reached by a short boat ride, offering scenic trails around the island and beautiful views of the surrounding ocean.
Located approximately 17 kilometers from Hikkaduwa, this historic fort allows for exploration along its ancient walls and offers a combination of history and coastal scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hikkaduwa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hikkaduwa by plane.
The primary international airport in Sri Lanka, located in Katunayake, approximately 140 km north of Hikkaduwa.
An international airport located in Mattala, approximately 220 km south of Hikkaduwa.
Another designation for Bandaranaike International Airport, serving as the main gateway to Sri Lanka.
Located about 280 km northeast of Hikkaduwa, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Sri Lanka, making up a significant portion of the population in Hikkaduwa.
A significant ethnic group in Sri Lanka, with a presence in Hikkaduwa, particularly in the northern and eastern regions.
A notable ethnic and religious group in Sri Lanka, with communities in Hikkaduwa.
An ethnic group of mixed European descent, with historical roots in Sri Lanka and a small presence in Hikkaduwa.
Includes various smaller communities and expatriates living in Hikkaduwa.
The Soul of Hikkaduwa
Discover the essence of Hikkaduwa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hikkaduwa is renowned for its vibrant surf culture, attracting surfers from around the world to its quality waves and warm waters.
The coastal waters of Hikkaduwa are home to beautiful reefs and diverse marine life, making scuba diving a popular activity among both locals and tourists.
With access to stunning coral reefs, snorkeling is a favored pastime, allowing visitors to explore the underwater scenery easily.
The sandy beaches of Hikkaduwa provide the perfect setting for beach volleyball games, popular among locals and visitors alike.
As in many parts of Sri Lanka, cricket is highly popular among the local community and often played in schools and public spaces.
Football enjoys popularity in Hikkaduwa, with many informal matches and organized games taking place in local fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hikkaduwa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Hikkaduwa offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from flavorful curries and salads to plant-based burgers and fresh fruit smoothies. Notable spots include Shaka Restaurant and Dots Bay House.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can indulge in gluten-free dining at select eateries such as The Refresh and Salt Restaurant, which offer a range of gluten-free dishes and are accommodating to specific dietary requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hikkaduwa with these cultural adventures.
