How to explore the best things to do in Hikkaduwa

Though bringing with it a reputation of being quite the party town in Sri Lanka’s southern province, Hikkaduwa sure does throw up its fair share of excitement in ways never thought of before. Described below is a list of activities and areas that can be experienced and reached when holidaying in this sunny section of the Emerald Isle.

Tour Hikkaduwa Lake

Known for its rich biodiversity and serene setting, the Hikkaduwa Lake is quite the far cry from all the beach town vibes that will descend upon travellers like yourself hoping to vacation in Hikkaduwa. Located 2 km from Baddegama Road, the Lake presents a plethora of opportunities to truly kick back and take in the sublime vistas that will greet you no sooner you have arrived. For instance, look to combing its sections as part of a lagoon safari that can be tried out via canoeing, boating or even kayaking. An array of faunal and floral species call Hikkaduwa Lake ‘home’ with sightings of monitor lizards, fish, birds and turtles all part of the spectacle.

Make merry on Hikkaduwa Beach

From tucking into mouthwatering seafood spreads, taking long walks with the sunset before you to partying it up in grand style once dusk begins to settle, Hikkaduwa Beach is a playground well worth taking time over. With coconut palms dotting its shoreline and a slew of bars, pubs and water sporting activities to try out, one’s leisure holiday is destined to go off well. However, be sure to check out the beautiful stretches of corals that are found in its immediate vicinity which house an abundance of marine creatures of varying hues and sizes.

Scour the ins and outs of Hikkaduwa National Park

Arguably, the crowning jewel of your tropical vacation in Hikka will be to pay a visit to the Hikkaduwa National Park. For the entry fee of LKR 380, what you will receive in return will far outweigh any monetary value. Listed as a national park in September of 2012, the Park covers 4 km in length and reaches a depth of 16 feet within a low-fringing coral reef which simply is a sight for sore eyes. Totalling 170 species of reef fish and an additional 60 species of coral, the Park paves the way for both a fun-filled and educational adventure. A series of marine vegetation are found inhabiting the area while opportunities to snorkel and scuba dive are readily available for you to seek out the pleasures of the Hikkaduwa National Park.

Voyage to Akurala Beach

Dreamy scenes of sparkling oceans, sandy shores and stunning reefs will warmly welcome you as you set foot on Akurala Beach which is one of Hikkaduwa’s prized possessions. For a beach picnic surrounded by the aromas of marinated fish and plenty of space in which to indulge in a refreshing dip, look no further than Akurala Beach. First-time divers can get a taste of what the sport of diving involves while the more laidback, nature-savvy visitor will have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to observe turtles hatching in their natural habitat.

Spot turtles on Turtle Beach

Remaining on the subject of sea turtles, vacationers to this part of Sri Lanka will do well to include some time for turtle spotting. Although during such an expedition, one must exercise a great degree of caution and patience so that the process of nesting goes along undisturbed. Moreover, be sure that you capture every moment on your trusty camera so that you may reminisce these scenes once back home. Another good way to set about experiencing turtles and their hatchlings will be to schedule a visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery which leaves no stone unturned in protecting these endangered species. For example, book your stay at a Hikkaduwa resort in the likes of Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon which will offer convenient access to the Hatchery.