Hikkaduwa Holidays

Holidaymakers have been rocking up to Hikkaduwa since the Seventies and, these days, the resort is as popular as ever. The main draw is undoubtedly the beach. The long stretch of sand here is typical of Sri Lanka’s west coast – think soft, golden sand flagged by leaning palm trees. The surf is excellent, and there are plenty of snorkelling and diving opportunities. The vibe is really chilled, too, making the place as popular with backpackers and locals as it is with those after a bit of luxury.

The nightlife here is among the best in Sri Lanka, and beach parties and festivals are regular fixtures on the calendar. One of the most popular is the Hikkaduwa Beach Fest, a three-day party in July or August that brings international DJs to the town.

The main road from Colombo to Galle runs right through Hikkaduwa, so there’s plenty of action on your doorstep. Head out of your hotel, and you’ll soon be surrounded by brightly coloured tuk-tuks, busy shops, and tempting food stalls. There are also some interesting Buddhist temples close by, if you’re after a taste of the local culture.