Hikkaduwa , Sri Lanka

Coastal Ride to Galle from Hikkaduwa

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10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This one-day tour takes you on a coastal ride of wild adventure and sublime relaxation. Explore the mangrove depths of Madu River. Get that perfect tan on the white sands of Unawatuna. Enjoy walking over cobblestones steeped in history as you view the old city of Galle. See Moonstones Mines in Metiyagoda. Create an unforgettable and wonderful experience on your vacation.

Available options

Transport + Tickets

All Inclusive<br/>Pickup included

Transport + No Tickets

Transport Only<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Service of an English-speaking driver

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle.

Water bottle (per-person).

Hotel pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Hikkaduwa.

Detailed itinerary

Hikkaduwa, nestled along the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, boasts stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a laid-back atmosphere. Famous for its surfing spots and thriving marine life, it's a haven for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The town also offers a lively nightlife and a variety of seafood dining options.

Madu River in Sri Lanka is a serene water body renowned for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. Located in the southwestern region, it offers boat rides through mangrove forests, showcasing rich avian life and diverse flora. The river is a vital source of livelihood for local communities engaged in fishing and traditional activities. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the surroundings while exploring the river's intricate network of channels and islets.

Discover the city of Galle, where the Portuguese and Dutch made their headquarters, and its secrets. Visit the Galle Fort which is one of the best preserved fortifications in Asia. View the Maritime Museum, Galle National Museum and the lighthouse. Walk through the cobblestoned streets with their Dutch names as you learn more about their histories.

The Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre in Mahamodara, Sri Lanka, is a vital sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of endangered sea turtles. Nestled along the picturesque coast, it serves as a haven for these magnificent creatures, protecting their eggs and nurturing hatchlings until they are ready for release into the ocean. Through education and outreach programs, the center raises awareness about the importance of sea turtle preservation, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness these ancient marine beings up close.

Hikkaduwa Beach, located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere. Framed by palm trees swaying in the tropical breeze, the beach offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, revealing a colorful underwater world teeming with marine life and coral reefs. Along the shore, visitors can find bustling beachfront cafes, bars, and markets, creating a lively and welcoming ambiance for travelers from around the globe.

What's not included

Entrance fees (Madu River, Turtle Hatchery).

Food and drinks.

Expenses of personal nature.

Gratuities (optional).

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is a vibrant coastal town in Sri Lanka, renowned for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and vibrant nightlife. It's a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Top Attractions

Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa Beach is the town's main attraction, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and excellent surfing conditions. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Hikkaduwa Coral Gardens

A protected marine area just off the coast, the Coral Gardens offer a chance to see vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. It's a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate (snorkeling/diving tours)

Tsunami Honganji Vihara

This Buddhist temple is a memorial to the victims of the 2004 tsunami. The temple features a large statue of Buddha and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling beach.

Historical 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Hikkaduwa Nightlife

Hikkaduwa is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties. It's a great place to enjoy live music, dance, and socialize with fellow travelers.

Entertainment Evening to late night Moderate to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or with meat/seafood

Fish Ambul Thiyal

A sour fish curry made with goraka (a type of sour fruit), coconut, and spices. It's a signature dish of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish

Woodapple Juice

A refreshing juice made from the woodapple fruit, often mixed with sugar and water. It's a popular local drink.

Drink Vegan

Popular Activities

Surfing Snorkeling Diving Jet-skiing Parasailing Beach lounging Yoga Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the best time to visit Hikkaduwa for beach activities and surfing, as the weather is dry and sunny. The town is lively with many events and festivals.

28°C to 32°C 82°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hikkaduwa is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions. Petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides.
• Negotiate prices in advance for taxis and tours.
• Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Bandaranayake International Airport • 120 km

By train

Hikkaduwa Railway Station

By bus

Hikkaduwa Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Hikkaduwa. They are affordable and frequent, connecting the town to nearby areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Beachfront Area Galle Road Area Seenimodara

Day trips

Galle

20 km • Half day to full day

Galle is a historic port city with a rich colonial heritage. It's known for its well-preserved Dutch Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its vibrant arts and culture scene.

Unawatuna

15 km • Half day to full day

Unawatuna is a beautiful beach town near Hikkaduwa, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the local beach bars.

Bentota

30 km • Full day

Bentota is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and luxury resorts. It's a great destination for adventure activities like jet-skiing, parasailing, and river safaris.

Festivals

Hikkaduwa Beach Festival • December (specific dates vary) Vesak • May (specific dates vary) Esala Perahera • July or August (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Sinhala or Tamil to enhance your interactions with locals.
Rent a surfboard or take a lesson from local surf schools to experience Hikkaduwa's famous waves.
Visit the Hikkaduwa Beach Festival if you're in town during December for a unique cultural experience.
Explore nearby towns like Galle and Unawatuna for a mix of history, culture, and relaxation.
Try local street food, but be cautious and choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.