The first thing that catches the eye in Hikkaduwa is the broad swath of palm fringed white sandy beach and the calm blue ocean; essential things when one thinks of a holiday in the tropics. Although Hikkaduwa has something to offer by way of excitement throughout the year, the best time to spend a few days at this coastal area is probably from November to March, during the surfing season when simply everyone flock here to catch the four main surf breaks. This is probably also the best time to dive and snorkel on the famous coral reef and the other dive sites that stretch all the way to Galle. The town with its laidback ambience and its main street, which is also the road to Galle, is dotted with hotels, beach restaurants serving a range of cuisine, shops and nightclubs with quirky names and generates its very own charm tempting many people to enjoy the sun, sand and surf here.
Hikkaduwa remains an interesting place away from the beaches as well. Tranquil villages amidst green rice paddies are just a few minute’s walk from the main road. 5 km from the town is a picturesque freshwater lake referred to as the “bird lake” where several varieties of coastal birds are found along with water monitors and where traditional methods of freshwater prawn farming are still practiced.
A canoe ride at sunset is much recommended while suitable places for water skiing and wake boarding are found at the eastern end of the lake. Adding another dimension to a holiday in Hikkaduwa is the fact that it is conveniently close to other interesting places such as Galle which is just 14 km away and the Unawatuna beach which is a little beyond Galle. The 1,060 ha Kottowa Rainforest and Arboretum and the Dodanduwa lagoon with its Buddhist island retreats, mangroves and fruit bats is only 2 km away. Both are areas of great natural beauty and tranquillity. Kottowa Rainforest and Arboretum can be explored on foot and Dodanduwa lagoon by traditional canoe or non motorized boat.
As the town’s most prominent hotel Chaaya Tranz Hikkaduwa offers it guests the best location in town right on the beach convenient for catching the surf, diving and snorkelling. As one of the well known beach hotels in Sri Lanka guests are offered modern well appointed rooms and suites with ocean views and a series of excellent services that include restaurants and bars and relaxing spa treatments. Stay at thisHikkaduwa hotel which is close to several attractions in the area and enjoy the best of southern Sri Lanka.
