Hikkaduwa Ultimate Guide to Sri Lanka

Introduction

Hikkaduwa, a lovely coastal town in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka, is famous in Sri Lanka for its stunning beaches, beautiful turtles, water sports, and colourful coral reefs. This small beach town is a treasure trove for turtles, surfers, and adventure things seekers. It also offers a great opportunity for your leisure time. So, for those who are more interested in water activities and are looking to experience the culture of Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa is a great destination.

Location of Hikkaduwa

This beautiful town is located about 98 kilometres from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. It is very easy to access this town using the expressway (Galle Road). This town is popular not only among international tourists but also among the locals. Therefore, during the weekends, the locals make this town a crowded place. Hikkaduwa is also close to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort and the beautiful town of Unawatuna, making it even more convenient for tourists.

Weather in Hikkaduwa

Like many cities in Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa has a tropical climate. It experiences warm weather throughout the year. It usually ranges from 25°C to 30°C, making it a great beach destination. Hikkaduwa also experiences two monsoon seasons, the southwest monsoon from May to September and the northeast monsoon November and February.

Best Time to Visit Hikkaduwa

The best time to visit Hikkaduwa is usually between November and April. During this time, you can relax on the beach, enjoy fun water sports, and explore the surrounding area. There is minimal chance of rain during this time, and the sea is calm and clear, making it perfect for activities like snorkelling and diving.

Here is a more detailed description of the months:

From November to April: The best time to spend time on the beach, engage in water sports, and explore the city.
From May to September: Although rainy, it is less crowded and not a bad time for those who are more interested in indoor attractions and local culture.

Journey Time to Hikkaduwa

The time it takes to get to Hikkaduwa depends on your departure point and vehicle. If you are coming from Colombo, it will take between 2 and 3 hours by car or bus, depending on the traffic conditions. In addition, to give you an idea, I will mention the approximate travel time and distance from several other significant locations to Hikkaduwa below.

Negombo to Hikkaduwa: Approximately 147.7 km and travel time of about 2 hours by car.
Colombo International Airport (CMB) to Hikkaduwa: Approximately 143.1 km and travel time of about 2 hours by car.
Galle to Hikkaduwa: Approximately 19 km and travel time of about 20 minutes by car.
Mirissa to Hikkaduwa: Approximately 63 km and travel time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.
Unawatuna to Hikkaduwa: Approximately 23.6 km and travel time of about 35 minutes by car.

Time Taken to Explore Hikkaduwa

There are a few major attractions to visit in Hikkaduwa town. Exploring them all could take a day or two days, depending on your activities. But if you want to enjoy the beach longer, explore the town in one day and relax on the beach for the rest of the day. However, If you want to dive deeper into Sri Lankan culture, explore the surrounding towns, and enjoy fun water sports, staying for 2-3 days would be best.

Reasons to explore Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is not just a coastal town. It is also culturally and ecologically significant. It is home to one of the most famous coral reefs in Sri Lanka and is a safe marine area that attracts any diver or snorkeler. In addition, the town's rich cultural history, with Buddhist temples and ruins that reflect its heritage, are other unique factors. So, Hikkaduwa is a very valuable tourist centre that offers many essential things to tourists.

Things to do in Hikkaduwa

Here is a more detailed look at things to do in Hikkaduwa:

Snorkelling and Scuba Diving: This beautiful haven for marine life with colourful coral reefs is ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Surfing: A hot spot where both beginners and experienced surfers can surf without fear.
Beach Relaxation: Hikkaduwa is a great place to relax and watch the sunset from the soft sandy beaches.
Boat Tours: A glass-bottomed boat ride is available for those who want to enjoy boat trips through the lagoon and explore the reefs.
Cycling Tours: You can also ride a foot bike to the nearby countryside or beaches to spend some free time.
Jet Skiing and windsurfing: These are popular options for those seeking more adrenaline-pumping activities.

Main Attractions in Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is full of attractions that attract tourists from all over the world. So, here are some of the best places to visit:

Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary: An excellent and safe area for snorkelling and diving.
Turtle Hatchery: A place where endangered turtles are preserved.
Hikkaduwa Temple: A very peaceful temple located on the beach.

In addition, there are plenty of quaint shops selling local handicrafts, souvenirs made from various materials, and beachwear. These are great souvenirs for your adventure, from handmade jewellery to traditional Sri Lankan art.

Places to Stay

Hikkaduwa is a city that is constantly being populated. So, there is a wide range of accommodation options available in Hikkaduwa city. So, from low-cost homestay to luxury accommodation, you can explore Hikkaduwa City from any accommodation at any price you want.

Other Nearby Attractions

Galle Fort, Unawatuna, Kanneliya Rainforest, Jungle Beach, Koggala Lake, Stilt Fisherman, Talpe Natural Pool, Dalwella Beach, Koggala Beach, Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre, Mahamodara, Ahangama Beach, and Rumassala.

Ultimately, Hikkaduwa is a paradise for those looking for a trip that combines adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Whether you are a nature lover, a beach lover, or someone looking to try new experiences, choosing Hikkaduwa, the southern coast of Sri Lanka, will be your best choice.