Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

Welcome to Hikkaduwa, a picturesque coastal town nestled along the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. With its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and laid-back atmosphere, Hikkaduwa offers the perfect escape for a memorable holiday. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of this tropical paradise as we present to you the top reasons to visit, insider tips, and hand-picked city center hotels that will make your stay truly exceptional.

5 Reasons to Visit Hikkaduwa

1. Beach Bliss: Hikkaduwa boasts stunning golden sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Kick back, relax, and soak up the tropical vibes as you bask in the warm sunshine. The palm-fringed shoreline provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll along the coast.

2. Snorkelling and Diving: Dive into an underwater wonderland in Hikkaduwa. The vibrant coral reefs are teeming with a kaleidoscope of marine life, including colourful tropical fish, turtles, and even reef sharks. Grab your snorkelling gear or take a scuba diving excursion to explore the mesmerizing world beneath the waves.

3. Water Sports: For adventure enthusiasts, Hikkaduwa offers an array of thrilling water sports activities. Try your hand at surfing and catch the perfect wave, or hop on a jet ski for an exhilarating ride along the coast. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides are also popular options for a fun-filled day at the beach.

4. Turtle Hatchery: Get up close and personal with these gentle creatures at the Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery. Learn about conservation efforts to protect sea turtles and witness the release of hatchlings into the sea. It’s a heartwarming and educational experience for the whole family.

5. Vibrant Nightlife: When the sun goes down, Hikkaduwa comes alive with its vibrant nightlife scene. Explore the beachfront bars and clubs, where you can dance the night away to live music or sip on refreshing cocktails while enjoying the ocean breeze. Experience the lively atmosphere and create unforgettable memories.

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Did You Know?

Did you know that Hikkaduwa was one of the first marine protected areas in Sri Lanka? Established in 1979, the Hikkaduwa National Park was created to preserve the area’s coral reefs and marine life. This makes Hikkaduwa a haven for snorkelers and divers, offering an opportunity to witness the beauty of a thriving ecosystem.

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The Best Time of Year to Visit Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

• Dry Season (November to April): This period offers the most favourable weather conditions with plenty of sunshine, calm seas, and low rainfall. It’s ideal for beach activities, snorkelling, and diving.
• Intermonsoon Season (May and October): During this season, you may experience occasional showers, but overall, the weather remains pleasant. It’s a great time to visit if you’re looking for fewer crowds and lower hotel rates.
• Monsoon Season (May to October): Hikkaduwa experiences heavy rainfall and rough seas during this period. While it may not be suitable for swimming or water sports, it can be a good time for surfing enthusiasts to catch some challenging waves.

Experiences in Hikkaduwa

• Explore the coral reefs and vibrant marine life while snorkelling or diving in Hikkaduwa’s clear waters.
• Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Madhu River, surrounded by lush mangroves and scenic landscapes.
• Visit the Tsunami Photo Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and its impact on the region.
• Indulge in fresh seafood delicacies at the beachfront restaurants, where you can savour mouthwatering dishes while enjoying panoramic ocean views.
• Take a day trip to the nearby Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, charming boutiques, and quaint cafes.

Typical Costs When on Holiday in Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa offers a range of accommodation options and dining choices to suit various budgets. Here are some typical costs to consider:

• Accommodation: In Hikkaduwa, you can find a variety of accommodation options, including guesthouses, boutique hotels, and beachfront resorts. On average, a mid-range hotel in the city centre can cost around £60-£100 per night.
• Food and Drink: Hikkaduwa offers a diverse culinary scene with options for all budgets. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant or beachfront shack for around £3-£8 per person. If you prefer fine dining, upscale restaurants offer a range of international and local cuisine with prices ranging from £10-£30 per person for a three-course meal.
• Transportation: Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transport in Hikkaduwa, and short rides within the town may cost around £1-£2. If you’re planning to explore nearby areas, you can hire a private driver or take a local bus at affordable rates.
• Attractions: Many of Hikkaduwa’s attractions, such as the Turtle Hatchery and the Tsunami Photo Museum, have modest entry fees ranging from £2-£5 per person.

Getting to Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa can be easily accessed from Bandaranaike International Airport or other major cities in Sri Lanka. Here’s how to reach Hikkaduwa from the airport or local hotels:

• From Bandaranaike International Airport: Hikkaduwa is approximately 140 kilometres south of the airport, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours by road. You can hire a private taxi or arrange a transfer through your hotel or tour operator.
• From Colombo: If you’re already in Colombo, you can take a train or a bus to Hikkaduwa. The train journey offers scenic views of the coastline, while the bus journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.

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Cities:

Hand-Picked City Centre Hotels

1. Hikkaduwa Beach Hotel (Rating: 4/5): This beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms with ocean views, an outdoor pool, and a prime location within walking distance of Hikkaduwa Beach.

2. Lavanga Resort & Spa (Rating: 4.5/5): Nestled amidst lush greenery, this luxurious hotel features spacious rooms, a spa offering rejuvenating treatments, and a tranquil atmosphere.

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5 Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Trip

1. Family Adventures: Visit the Seenigama Temple, where you can climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings. Don’t forget to check out the nearby community project, which includes a unique cultural museum and a traditional mask carving centre.

2. Surfing Paradise: Hikkaduwa is a renowned surfing destination, especially during the surf season (November to April). If you’re a beginner, join a surf lesson at one of the local surf schools and catch some waves under the guidance of experienced instructors.

3. Cultural Immersion: Take a day trip to the historic city of Galle and explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Wander through its narrow streets, admire the colonial architecture, and visit the charming boutiques and art galleries.

4. Nature Escapes: Embark on a boat safari along the Madhu River, where you can spot a variety of bird species, monkeys, and other wildlife. The tranquil surroundings and lush mangrove forests offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling beachfront.

5. Local Delicacies: Don’t miss the opportunity to taste traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. Visit the local markets in Hikkaduwa to sample street food favourites like kottu roti (a delicious stir-fry dish) and mouthwatering seafood curries. Be sure to try the famous Sri Lankan tea and indulge in the sweetness of traditional desserts like Watalappan and Kiri Pani.

Now that you’re well-equipped with all the essential information for your Hikkaduwa adventure, it’s time to plan your trip and create memories that will last a lifetime. Discover more about the beauty of Sri Lanka and book your cultural tour with Touring Highlights by visiting their page about Sri Lanka Tours at touringhighlights.com/tour/sri-Lanka. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the tropical paradise of Hikkaduwa and beyond. Happy travels!

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