Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is a popular coastal town in southwest Sri Lanka, famous for its beaches, coral reefs, and large sea turtle population. A lively tourist destination, it's located about 100 kilometers south of Colombo. It's one of the best spots on the coast for surfing and snorkeling. You can swim among vibrant coral and hundreds of reef fish. PADI scuba diving courses are also available. One of the highlights is seeing and swimming with giant sea turtles, especially at Turtle Beach. You can also visit a sea turtle rescue and hatchery, such as the one in Kosgoda, which focuses on protecting turtle biodiversity. The town has a vibrant atmosphere with many cafes, bars, and restaurants along the beach. The culinary offerings are varied, including local seafood, South Indian food, and even Italian options.