Attractions in Hikkaduwa

If sun, sea, delicious food and cosy accommodation are what you are looking for, then head straight to Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka’s most loved beachside destination. Its white sandy beaches, amazing underwater life, enthralling water sports and spectacular coral reefs attracts more and more tourists each year.

Hikkaduwa is a paradise destination for the water sports enthusiasts, since it offers so many activities like snorkelling, diving and wind surfing. Its brilliant coral sanctuary is also a major crowd puller. This astounding city offers its visitors glass bottomed boats to traverse the pristine waters. This has been an extremely popular attraction since it offers the fantastic opportunity to view the beautiful coral reefs.

Renowned as one of the oldest diving places in Hikkaduwa, the Poseidon Dive Station provides all the conveniences for a superb diving experience amidst a breathtaking ambience.

If planning to hit the reef, travellers can hire diving equipment from the many diving centres located in the Hikkaduwa town. This is also a fantastic place for the underwater archaeologist as there are four interesting shipwrecks to explore. The beaches in Hikkaduwa are splendid and broad where swimming is considered safe. The remarkable coral reef runs just offshore and is inhabited by various kinds of exotic fish and turtles.

The Turtle Research Centre is an intriguing place to explore. It is located about 2 kilometres away from the town centre and is a place that is dedicated to protect these endangered species.

Out of the many surfing locations in Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa is considered only second best to Arugam Bay. However, it still offers the prospective surfer an enthralling experience out amongst the waves. Due to the active nature of the activities that are located in Hikkaduwa and the large amounts of crowds that they attract, various beach side accommodation options are on offer for visitors to the area.

There are also numerous shops that sell local handicrafts, batik fabric, gems and many other Sri Lankan delights. Furthermore, there are significant Buddhist temples that add to the diversity of this beautiful coastal town.
Visitors to Hikkaduwa are ensured a host of activities in which to indulge themselves in from water related activities to festivities on the beach.