98 kilometres south of Colombo lies one of Sri Lanka’s best touristic destinations, Hikkaduwa. This coastal town is a fun-filled spot where tourists from all over the word come to enjoy great water adventures. The town has developed around the tourist economy and so visitors will find it rich in touristic comforts that add zest to a vacation. Hikkaduwa is the second best surf spot in Sri Lanka. The waves near the shore are high and mighty and a constant source of joy to professional surfers. But beginners can also enjoy the surfing action nearer the shore with the help of the surfing schools that operate on the beach. And if you are not eager to surf, the golden sands that cover the beach from end to end are wonderful places to simply soak in the sun and watch the surfing fun. Apart from surfing, the best things to do in Hikkaduwa are to explore the magnificent grounds for diving and snorkelling. The beautiful coral reef runs just offshore and is still populated by exotic fish and sea turtles which one can also enjoy by boating in glass-bottomed boats.
There is a small, privately owned Turtle Hatchery and Research Centre about 2 kilometres from Hikkaduwa. Of the best things to do in Hikkaduwa, you can visit the hatchery and witness the birth and the early lives of the turtles is a wonderful experience. Other attractions around the small town include Seenigama Vihara Temple, a sea-swept temple full of serenity and the sounds of lashing waves; Hikkaduwa Lake, and the Tsunami Photo Museum. A visit to the Hikkaduwa National Park, which houses a diverse variety of flora and fauna is also interesting. Witnessing a sunset on the Hikkaduwa beach is a magical experience too. These attractions add depth to the stay in Hikkaduwa and allow you to experience it in a comprehensive fashion. Spending a couple of days in this coastal town is a fun way to enjoy Sri Lanka.
