Possibly one of the most sought out destinations in Sri Lanka boasting beaches with white sands and crystal-clear waters, Hikkaduwa is situated in the southwest region of the island. A mere two-hour drive from the commercial capital of Colombo. What was once a small fishing village has now transformed into a bustling holiday destination which attracts backpackers and travelers from all around the globe.A stretch of sky blue seas awaits you as you embark on a picturesque escapade to soak up some much-needed vitamin sea! (Pun Intended)
Hikkaduwa or more commonly known as Hikka among local travelers is the go to spot to catch some much-needed adrenaline rush in the form of surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving etc.Hikkaduwa offers some of the best surf’s during its dry season. Enjoy a casual dip in the warm waters of the beach with numerous spots available along the coastline, you may even be lucky to spot a huge turtle or two as they frequent the area and come on to the shore to breed. Organize a snorkeling trip and dive deeper and be one with the turtles exploring the colorful corals alongside exotic shoals of fish it truly is a breathtaking experience. And if that doesn’t quench your thirst for underwater adventures booking a scuba diving trip would lead you to explore shipwrecks right off the coast. Magnificent remnants of vessels play host to more exotic reefs and aquatic worlds that will tingle the inner explorer in you. Walking along the beach you’ll come across a turtle hatchery which works towards conserving these beautiful creatures. If swimming with the turtles isn’t enough spend some time learning about these gentle beasts in and out. The hatchery offers valuable insight to a life of a turtle including a rare chance to see them hatch out of the eggs and make their way to the sea. You get an opportunity to hold them and even help transport them into open waters.A one of a kind experience. Along the northern end of the beach is the Hikkaduwa’s Marine park one of the three marine national parks in Sri Lanka which offers an excellent spot for viewing various types of colourful reefs along with other creatures such as dugongs, sea turtles, oysters, crabs and sea worms to name a few. The marine park also offers glass bottom boat rides for those of you who are not up for a swim. Lastly, the Hikkaduwa Bird Lake is a pleasant distraction from the active beach life. It offers a look at water lizards, exotic birds and traditional prawn fishing. Even off the coastline Hikkaduwa has much to offer such as picturesque temples and luxurious resorts and spa’s that pampers you right and makes the whole experience worthwhile. The true spirit of island life lingers on the sandy shores down in the southern coast with the tropical heat and the crashing crystalline waves that blends together to bring you the ultimate getaway of a lifetime.