Hikkaduwa — Surfing & Snorkeling★★
Hikkaduwa was Sri Lanka's first beach resort in the 1970s and has retained its relaxed charm. The coral reef directly off the beach offers excellent snorkeling (sea turtles almost guaranteed), the waves at the neighboring beaches are perfect for beginner surfers, and the nightlife is livelier than elsewhere on the south coast.
Activities
- Coral Sanctuary: Protected reef with glass-bottom boats and snorkeling opportunities. Green sea turtles come daily to feed.
- Surfing: Beginner-friendly waves at Main Beach, advanced breaks further south. Surfboard rental from 1,000 LKR (~2.85 €) per hour.
- Tsunami Museum: Small museum commemorating the 2004 tsunami disaster that severely hit Hikkaduwa.
- Turtle Farm: Hatchery for sea turtles on the main road.
💡 Tipp
Hikkaduwa is a good alternative to the more expensive beaches further south — accommodations are cheaper, the atmosphere is more relaxed, and snorkeling is better than in Unawatuna. Also feasible as a day trip from Galle (30 minutes by train).
