15 Days / 14 Nights
Sri Lanka Surprising Diversity
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Coral reef & surf
Hikkaduwa
About Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa was one of Sri Lanka's original south-coast beach destinations, and still draws visitors for a shallow coral reef just offshore — a marine sanctuary where green and hawksbill turtles are a near-daily sighting for snorkellers.
It's also a reasonable surf spot for beginners and intermediates, with a longer-established scene of surf schools and board rental than some of the newer stops along the coast.
Quick facts
- One of Sri Lanka's original south-coast beach towns
- A protected coral reef and marine sanctuary offshore
- Green and hawksbill turtles regularly seen while snorkelling
- A long-established surf scene for beginners and intermediates
Getting there with a guide
We route Hikkaduwa as a south-coast beach stop with turtle snorkelling built in, usually alongside Galle on the same leg of a trip.
Map
Frequently asked questions
Can I see turtles without a boat?
Yes — the reef is close enough to shore that snorkelling directly from the beach often turns up turtles, though a short boat trip covers more reef.
Is Hikkaduwa good for beginner surfers?
Yes, it's one of the more established beginner-friendly surf spots on the south coast, with schools and rental readily available.
Is the reef in good condition?
It's a protected marine sanctuary, though like reefs worldwide it has faced bleaching pressure — a local guide will know current conditions.
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15 Days / 14 Nights