Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa was the very first coastal destination in Sri Lanka to capture the imagination of international travelers in the 1970s, and it has never lost its vibrant, laid-back charisma. Stretching across miles of sun-bleached golden sand, Hikkaduwa is a paradise where marine conservation, surf culture, and coastal hospitality converge.

The crown jewel of Hikkaduwa is its shallow Marine National Park, a protected fringing coral reef housing over 60 species of hard corals and more than 170 species of colorful tropical reef fish. Snorkelers of all experience levels can simply step off the beach into warm, crystal-clear water to glide alongside parrotfish, damselfish, and butterflyfish.

Just a few steps down the beach at Turtle Point, enormous wild Green Sea Turtles and Olive Ridley turtles glide into the knee-deep shallows daily. Travelers can stand in the warm surf and watch these gentle marine giants feed peacefully on sea grass in an unforgettable, natural interaction.

Further south along the bay, Hikkaduwa's legendary surf breaks—such as Benny's, Main Reef, and North Jetty—attract wave riders from around the globe with consistent right and left peeling reef breaks. In the evening, the strip comes alive with beachfront acoustic cafes, vibrant juice bars, and artisan batik boutiques.

With Traviceylon, you enjoy private snorkeling excursions with local marine conservationists who ensure ethical, respectful turtle encounters, paired with seamless transport in your private air-conditioned vehicle.