The best time of year to visit Hikkaduwa Beach is between November and March when it’s still too hot for most tourists. Locals often enjoy the lack of crowds then, saving money on hotels and restaurants.
I recommend spending at least two days in Hikkaduwa Sri Lanka to fully explore the area. In this guide, I’ve included 7 top places to go while you’re there which will help you make the most of your visit!
Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka is a beautiful beach town on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. For those wanting to visit, this guide will provide all of the necessary places, things, and activities you should explore.
How To Get To Hikkaduwa?
There are a few ways to get to Hikkaduwa, but by far the most popular is by private taxi.
Taxi from Colombo to Hikkaduwa:
I took a private taxi from Colombo Airport to Hikkaduwa for about 50 USD total for the four of us, which was around 8,000 Rupees ($45). The drive from Colombo to Hikkaduwa takes around two hours and is considerably cheaper than taking the train or bus.
Bus from Colombo to Hikkaduwa:
From Colombo Airport, take bus 187 to Colombo Fort Central Bus Station for around 100 Rupees. At this station, you will need to get on a different bus and take any bus that’s labeled Galle, Tangalle, Matara, or Hikkaduwa. These buses will cost around 300 Rupees, but they run every fifteen minutes. Simply tell the driver when you want to be notified about arriving in Hikkaduwa, and he’ll do his best to let you know.
Train from Colombo to Hikkaduwa:
From Colombo Airport, take bus 187 to Colombo Fort Railway Station. You can purchase a 2nd or 3rd class ticket to Hikkaduwa when you arrive at the station for around 150 Rupees. The train to Hikkaduwa is usually very packed, so don’t expect many seats to be available.
Hikkaduwa Beach
Hikkaduwa beach is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular tourist destinations and offers some of the best scenery, if not the best. The pristine beaches are an experience like no other. Be sure to visit Hikkaduwa Beach and take in a swim in one of its crystal blue waters. There are plenty of spots for swimming, from secluded bays to turtle-filled shores, it’s one of the best places to explore on a much needed break.
Snorkeling at Hikkaduwa Coral Reef
When you’re in Hikkaduwa, why not take the opportunity to go snorkeling? Rent a mask and snorkel from one of the many tour operators along the beach and get out into the ocean for a closer look at the underwater world. If you’re looking for something else, though, there are dive trips available too! Just ask any of these tour operators about booking a Hikkaduwa scuba diving trip.
Rent a surfboard in Hikkaduwa Sri Lanka
Surf’s Up! Hikkaduwa is known for its clean waves and consistent swell. Whether you have your own surfboard or not, it’s easy to rent one from a local shop by the beach or town.
Railway Adventure
Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka offers an unforgettable adventure for locals and tourists alike. You can take a break from exploring the city streets and plug in to the railway line, only one block away from the main street. When the trains come by, you can get as close as your heart desires. There are also opportunities for photos on this railway line.
Hikkaduwa Juice Bar
Take a break from your adventures to enjoy some fresh fruit juice at one of the roadside Juice Bars in Hikkaduwa. This is the best juice I’ve tasted – and it’s super fresh, too. It doesn’t get any fresher than local fruit, so if you see it at the market, make sure to grab some!
Gangarama Temple
One of the highlights at Gangarama Maha Vihara Temple is that you’ll be able to see these interesting paintings. The temple will be happy to show them to you and fill you in on their story.
Local Street Food
If you’re a foodie, then you have to try the diverse flavors of the roti in Hikkaduwa Sri Lanka. I love the vegetable and egg roti, particularly the spicy one.
Where To Stay In Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa Sri Lanka has an abundance of accommodations to choose from. To keep things easy, I’ve narrowed the list down to a few places I enjoy staying most often. See below for some of my favorite places to stay in Hikkaduwa:
Luxury: Aditya Boutique Hotel
We’re a 5-star hotel with 2 restaurants, 4 pools, 3 spas and 6 floor plans. With Aditya Boutique Hotel, you’ll never have to settle. Book the perfect room for your next family vacation, or book a solo traveler’s room so you’ll never be lonely while traveling.
Mid Range: Nico Beach Hotel
Built right on the beach in Hikkaduwa, this 3-star hotel offers simple furniture, air-conditioning and a minibar. There is a wardrobe, seating area and private bathroom. It’s perfect for couples or friends wanting to travel at a budget.
Budget: Yonal Homestay
You won’t get a better deal, and you’ll be in the perfect place for solo travelers on a budget. Centrally located in Hikkaduwa, Yonal Homestay has everything your fellow travellers need: shared lounge with TV, kitchenette, fridge and private bathroom. Plus – if you want to meet new people – there’s occasional movie nights!
