3 km
of beach
Main strip
UNESCO
coral sanctuary
Protected reef
Nov–Apr
best season
West coast
100 km
from Colombo
2 hrs by train
Why Visit Hikkaduwa?
Hikkaduwa has been on the traveller map since the 1970s and remains one of Sri Lanka's most popular beach destinations for good reason. The National Marine Sanctuary protects a spectacular coral reef just metres from shore, home to sea turtles, reef sharks, and hundreds of fish species. The beach itself offers consistent surf for beginners and intermediates, while the strip behind it is packed with restaurants, bars, and dive shops catering to every budget.
Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Sanctuary
The Hikkaduwa National Marine Sanctuary is one of Sri Lanka's most accessible coral reefs. Snorkellers can wade in from the beach and immediately encounter sea turtles, parrotfish, and moray eels among the coral gardens. Glass-bottom boat tours are available for non-swimmers. The reef is best visited in the morning when visibility is highest and boat traffic is minimal.
Surfing at Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa's beach break is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to learn to surf. The waves are consistent from November to April, with several surf schools offering lessons and board hire. More experienced surfers head to Benny's and Narigama for faster, hollower waves. The surf community here is welcoming and the vibe is relaxed.
Tsunami Museum & Local History
The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami devastated Hikkaduwa, and the town's resilience is commemorated at the Tsunami Museum — a sobering but important visit. The museum documents the disaster through photographs, personal accounts, and the preserved Tsunami Train memorial. Understanding this history adds depth to any visit to the south coast.
Practical Information
Insider Tips
Snorkel at high tide
The reef is more accessible and fish are more active at high tide. Check tide times and aim for the two hours around high water.
Take a surf lesson first
Even experienced swimmers benefit from a lesson at Hikkaduwa — local instructors know the breaks and currents intimately.
Watch the sunset from Narigama
The southern end of the beach at Narigama has the best sunset views and a cluster of excellent seafood restaurants.
Arrive by train
The coastal train from Colombo is one of the world's great rail journeys — the track runs right along the beach for the last 30 km.
Visit the turtle hatchery
The Hikkaduwa Sea Turtle Farm and Hatchery rescues injured turtles and protects nesting sites — a worthwhile visit for families.
Happy hour on the beach
Most beach bars offer two-for-one cocktails from 5–7 pm — the perfect way to watch the sun dip into the Indian Ocean.
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