Hikkaduwa Beach, Coastal beach in Galle District, Sri Lanka
Hikkaduwa Beach is a sandy coastal area in Galle District that stretches around 3 kilometers along the southwestern shore, lined with palm trees and tropical vegetation. The waterfront has shallow, calm waters near the coast that deepen further out, with buildings, shops, and dining establishments set back from the sand.
The location transformed from a small fishing village to a tourist destination starting in the 1960s, when travelers from abroad began arriving and settling along the coast. This shift shaped the current layout and character of the settlement.
Local fishermen work along the shore using traditional methods, selling their catch to beachfront restaurants that prepare seafood in Sri Lankan style. The daily rhythm of the community remains tied to the sea and is immediately visible to visitors.
The beach has areas for swimming and surfing, with rental shops offering equipment and lessons particularly from November through March. You can visit throughout the year, but the waves are best during the cooler months.
Sea turtles regularly visit the shallow waters near the shore and can be observed in their natural setting. These encounters often become one of the most memorable moments of a visitor's stay.
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