30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Hikkaduwa | Dec 2025
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What activities can I do in Hikkaduwa?
Hikkaduwa is a beautiful coastal town in Sri Lanka known for its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and exciting water sports. Here are some things to do in Hikkaduwa: 1. Relax on Hikkaduwa Beach: Spend your days lounging on the golden sandy beach, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. The beach is also great for swimming and snorkeling. 2. Snorkeling and Diving: Hikkaduwa is famous for its coral reefs and colorful marine life. Take a snorkeling or diving trip to explore the underwater world and spot turtles, tropical fish, and vibrant corals. 3. Visit the Hikkaduwa National Park: This small but beautiful national park is located just off the coast of Hikkaduwa. Take a boat ride to the park and enjoy the mangroves, lagoons, and various bird species. 4. Surfing: Hikkaduwa is a popular surf spot with consistent waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. Rent a surfboard and catch some waves at popular breaks like Main Reef and Benny's. 5. Glass Bottom Boat Ride: If you're not into snorkeling or diving, take a glass-bottom boat ride to explore the coral reefs and marine life without getting wet. It's a great way to see the underwater world up close. 6. Visit the Tsunami Photo Museum: Hikkaduwa was severely affected by the 2004 tsunami. The Tsunami Photo Museum showcases photographs and stories of the devastating event, offering a glimpse into the resilience of the local community. 7. Turtle Hatchery: Hikkaduwa is home to several turtle hatcheries where you can learn about conservation efforts and even release baby turtles into the sea. It's a unique and rewarding experience. 8. Yoga and Ayurveda: Hikkaduwa is a popular destination for yoga and Ayurveda retreats. Join a yoga class or indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatment to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body. 9. Enjoy the Nightlife: Hikkaduwa comes alive at night with beach parties, live music, and vibrant bars. Experience the lively nightlife scene and dance the night away under the stars. 10. Visit Moonstone Mines: Just a short drive from Hikkaduwa, you can visit the moonstone mines in Meetiyagoda. Learn about the mining process and purchase beautiful moonstone jewelry as a souvenir. Remember to respect the local culture and environment while enjoying your time in Hikkaduwa.
When is the best time to travel to Hikkaduwa?
The best time to travel to Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, you can expect sunny and warm weather, with minimal rainfall. The sea is also calm and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. However, if you are interested in surfing, the best time to visit Hikkaduwa is during the monsoon season, which occurs from May to October. This is when the waves are at their best and attract surfers from around the world. It's important to note that Hikkaduwa can get crowded during the peak tourist season from December to February. If you prefer a quieter experience, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of November and April, when the weather is still good but there are fewer tourists.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is a popular beach town located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. It is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The culture of Hikkaduwa is a unique blend of traditional Sri Lankan customs and the influences of the international tourist community. One of the highlights of Hikkaduwa's cultural scene is the traditional dance and music performances. Visitors can witness captivating performances of Kandyan and low-country dances, accompanied by traditional drumming and singing. These performances often take place at local cultural centers or during special events and festivals. Hikkaduwa is also home to several Buddhist temples, where visitors can experience the spiritual side of Sri Lanka's culture. The Seenigama Vihara Temple, located on a small island near Hikkaduwa, is a popular pilgrimage site for both locals and tourists. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. The local cuisine in Hikkaduwa reflects the diverse cultural influences in the area. Visitors can indulge in a variety of seafood dishes, including fresh fish, crab, and prawns. Traditional Sri Lankan dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, and string hoppers are also widely available in the local restaurants and street food stalls. Hikkaduwa is also famous for its vibrant nightlife. The town is dotted with beachside bars, clubs, and restaurants that come alive after sundown. Tourists can enjoy live music, DJ performances, and beach parties, making it a popular destination for those seeking a lively and energetic atmosphere. In terms of traditional crafts, Hikkaduwa is known for its intricate mask-making. The town has several mask workshops where visitors can witness the creation of these colorful and expressive masks. These masks are an important part of Sri Lankan folklore and are used in traditional dance performances and rituals. Overall, Hikkaduwa offers a vibrant and diverse cultural experience for travelers. Whether it's exploring the local temples, enjoying traditional dance performances, indulging in local cuisine, or experiencing the lively nightlife, Hikkaduwa has something to offer for every culture enthusiast.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Hikkaduwa
When visiting Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka, there are several shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider buying. Here are some popular options: 1. Batik Clothing: Hikkaduwa is famous for its batik industry, and you can find a wide range of beautifully designed batik clothing items such as sarongs, dresses, shirts, and scarves. 2. Handicrafts: Look out for intricately crafted wooden masks, statues, and carvings that are unique to Sri Lanka. You can also find handmade jewelry, pottery, and woven baskets. 3. Gems and Jewelry: Sri Lanka is known for its precious and semi-precious gemstones. Hikkaduwa has several gem shops where you can find a variety of gemstone jewelry, including sapphires, rubies, and topaz. 4. Spices and Tea: Sri Lanka is renowned for its spices, so make sure to stock up on cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and other aromatic spices. Additionally, Ceylon tea is a must-buy, and you can find a wide range of flavors and varieties in Hikkaduwa. 5. Handmade Paper Products: Look for unique paper products like notebooks, cards, and diaries made from handmade paper. These items often feature intricate designs and are great as gifts or souvenirs. 6. Ayurvedic Products: Hikkaduwa has several Ayurvedic centers and shops where you can find herbal oils, creams, soaps, and other natural beauty and wellness products. 7. Traditional Sri Lankan Clothing: If you're interested in traditional Sri Lankan attire, you can find colorful and beautifully embroidered sarees, sarongs, and traditional men's clothing known as ""sarongs"" or ""lungis."" Remember to bargain when shopping in Hikkaduwa, as it is a common practice in Sri Lanka. Also, ensure that you are buying from reputable shops to get authentic and high-quality products.
Hikkaduwa travel review
Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka: A Tropical Paradise Nestled on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa is a small coastal town that offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking sun, sand, and sea. With its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and laid-back atmosphere, Hikkaduwa has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Let's delve into the wonders that this tropical paradise has to offer. One of the main attractions of Hikkaduwa is its stunning beaches. The golden sands stretch for miles, inviting visitors to soak up the sun and enjoy the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Whether you're a beach bum looking to relax or an adventurous soul seeking water sports, Hikkaduwa caters to all. From swimming and snorkeling to surfing and diving, the possibilities are endless. The coral reefs just off the coast are a haven for marine life, making it a perfect spot for underwater exploration. For those seeking a more immersive experience, Hikkaduwa offers a range of water activities. Grab a snorkel and dive into the crystal-clear waters to witness the kaleidoscope of colors that the coral reefs harbor. Swim alongside turtles, colorful fish, and even manta rays if you're lucky. If you're feeling more adventurous, try your hand at surfing the waves that roll into Hikkaduwa. With consistent swells and surf schools catering to all levels, it's an excellent place for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Beyond its beaches, Hikkaduwa boasts a vibrant and diverse culture. Take a stroll through the town and you'll find bustling markets, quaint shops, and mouth-watering street food stalls. Taste the local delicacies such as hoppers, kottu roti, and fresh seafood, all bursting with authentic Sri Lankan flavors. Don't forget to sip on a refreshing king coconut, a staple drink that will keep you hydrated under the tropical sun. For a dose of spirituality, visit the Seenigama Temple, located on a small island just off the coast of Hikkaduwa. This temple, dedicated to the deity Devol Deviyo, is a place of worship and pilgrimage for locals. The stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a serene spot to reflect and find inner peace. If you're a nature enthusiast, Hikkaduwa's proximity to other natural wonders makes it an ideal base for day trips. Just a short drive away, you'll find the Hikkaduwa National Park, home to a wide variety of bird species, reptiles, and monkeys. Take a boat ride along the Madu River, a picturesque waterway that winds through mangroves and lush greenery. Explore its hidden islands and visit a cinnamon plantation, where you can learn about the spice's cultivation and processing. As the sun sets over the horizon, Hikkaduwa comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. From beachfront bars to lively clubs, there's something for everyone. Enjoy live music, dance to the beats of local DJs, or simply unwind with a cocktail in hand as you watch the waves crash against the shore. Hikkaduwa is a destination that captures the essence of tropical paradise. Its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich culture make it a must-visit for any traveler. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a cultural experience, Hikkaduwa has it all. So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this coastal gem.