One of the top things to do in Hikkaduwa Beach is snorkeling. The reason is that one of just two marine parks in Sri Lanka is located off Hikkaduwa.
Simply rent some snorkeling gear and take a short boat ride over to the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef. Once you arrive, dive in and enjoy the views of the underwater world.
The best time of year for snorkelling is between November and April.
Obvious perhaps, but simply one of the best things to do in Hikkaduwa is to enjoy time on the beach.
Explore the different beaches nearby, take in the gorgeous sunsets and take a swim.
One of our best Hikkaduwa tips is to look out for giant turtles in the shallows later in the day at the southern end of the beach.
They are enormous animals and observing them in the their natural habitat is one of the best things to see in Hikkaduwa Beach Sri Lanka.
If you are wondering what to do in Hikkaduwa apart from visiting the beach, there are a number of large lakes and rivers close to town to explore.
A river safari is a great way to explore the backwaters and is one of the best things to do around Hikkaduwa.
The Madhu River near Balapitiya is a popular place to explore, or rent a canoe and paddle up the Hikkatuwa lake system.
As you cruise through the mangroves, look out for wildlife, particularly birds, monkeys and possibly even a crocodile or two.
Water sports in Hikkaduwa are one of the most popular things to do and the area is famous for surfing among adventure enthusiasts.
The clean waves and consistent swell are what attract surfers to the area to enjoy this fun outdoor activity.
Surfboards are available for hire on the beach. It is a good place to learn to surf as the waves are often suited for beginners. Ask any one of the board rental guys to teach you in return for a fee.
They also have paddleboards for rent, which is a fun way for kids to explore the water when the waves are small.
If you need a break from the beach, a visit to Galle Fort is one of the most popular day trips from Hikkaduwa. As it is just 20 km south of town it is one of the best things to do near Hikkaduwa.
Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the top tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.
If you love history and architecture, this is the perfect place to be. Entry to the fort is free. Allow plenty of time to explore the architecture, walk along the wall, get lost down the pretty streets, and visit the galleries and restaurants too!
This town on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka has a vibrant nightlife, with bars on the beach. Funky de Bar hosts beach parties on Thursday nights, while the Surf Control Rooftop Lounge offers a quieter experience.
Hikkaduwa is home to sports bars, and locations like Mambo’s Bar hosts extravagant parties as well. The town draws energetic and enthusiastic party-goers, and tourists can have some of the best nights of their lives here.
