Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa, Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Sports: Surfing
Best time to go: January–April, November–December
Hikkaduwa is a beach town on the south-west coast of Sri Lanka, north of Galle, and one of the island's longest-established surf centres. Main Reef, in front of the town, is a peak over coral that breaks both left and right and suits intermediate surfers. Benny's, a faster left near the rocks to the south, is for experienced surfers, while the softer beach waves at Narigama and further south are used by learners and schools.
The season runs from about November to April, when the north-east monsoon blows offshore on this coast and south-west swells from the Indian Ocean arrive regularly. Mornings are usually glassiest. From May to October the south-west monsoon brings onshore winds, rain and messy seas. The water is warm all year, about 27–29 °C, so boardshorts or a rash vest are enough. Part of the reef lies within a marine protected area, so do not stand on the coral and check local rules. Expect crowds in peak season, shallow reef at lower tides and sea turtles near the shore.
Spots near Hikkaduwa
- Midigama (38 km)
- Weligama (40 km)
- Mirissa (46 km)
- Arugam Bay (207 km)
- Kalpitiya Lagoon (236 km)