Hikkaduwa

An out and out tourist destination, seaside Hikkaduwa is completely geared to please tourists. Reminiscent of the flower power era, Hikkaduwa is a laid back town, where the only dress code is beachwear. Surfing is a popular pursuit and international snorkelling and surfing instructors are accessible for first timers. It is primarily a tourist destination and serves as a great beach with options to surf, snorkel, dive and enjoy the sun. Pro surfing tours are also held annually, where pros from around the world converge on the seaside town. The warm waters and challenging waves provide hours of surfing pleasure.

 
There is a buzz around the marketplace where colourful masks, batik shirts and other colourful beach wear is hawked. Plenty of sun, sand and sea, nightfall brings alive another facet of Hikkaduwa - a vibrant nightlife. A variety of quaint restaurants and beachside cabanas and hotels organise rave parties and fresh seafood.
 
The area has a host of Turtle Sanctuaries, working to protect the endangered species. Turtle eggs selected for hatching and progressive stages of the development of turtles can be seen here. Glass-bottomed boats offer glimpses of corals and tropical fish. The annual Hikkaduwa Beach Fest is fast catching on as a yearly festival of music and soulful dance vibes and is held in the month of August where tourist can truly let their hair down.
 
(Image Source : mysrilankaholidays.com, en.wikipedia.org)