10 Best Things to Do in Hiriketiya
Hiriketiya Beach offers a plethora of activities to satisfy every traveler’s tastes. This laid-back little town is becoming popular among surfers and tourists who are looking for a more chilled destination compared to Ahangama or Weligama.
1. Surfing
With its warm waters and consistent waves, Hiriketiya Beach has become a magnet for surfers from around the world. We stayed for 2 weeks and we surfed almost everyday in October, including a big swell of 5-6 foots high! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, this beach caters to all levels of expertise. The breathtaking bay creates ideal conditions for both longboarding and shortboarding surfers.
If you’re new to the sport or seeking to improve your skills, the gentle rolling waves on the right side provide an excellent learning environment on a beach break. Going a little bit more to the middle of the bay you can find a reef point for more intermediate level surfers. And for those seeking a greater challenge, head further out near the left side of the bay, where a reef break create thrilling opportunities for more experienced surfers. Be careful with this shallow reefs that are infested with urchins and as it has the most desired waves, remember to respect the locals.
If you’ve yet to ride a wave but are eager to learn, Hiriketiya Beach is home to several surf schools offering lessons tailored to beginners. Knowledgeable instructors will guide you through the basics and have you riding your first wave in no time. If you are intermediate or advanced surfer and didn’t bring your own board, be aware that it can be hard to find surfboards to rent in good conditions.
2. Experience the bliss of beach life!
Hiriketiya Beach isn’t just about surfing and yoga – it’s also a place where you can unwind, soak up the sun, and let all your worries melt away. The beach’s tranquil atmosphere, combined with its stunning natural beauty, creates an oasis of calm unlike any other.
Step onto the soft golden sands of Hiriketiya Beach and feel your troubles fade away as you take in the breathtaking view of the expansive ocean before you. The beach’s curved bay provides protection from strong currents, ensuring that swimming is safe for all visitors. Just avoid the shallow reefs of the left side during days of big swells and you’ll gonna be fine. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to cool off from the tropical heat or simply relax on the shore while soaking up some vitamin D.
3. Discover nearby beaches
Dickwella beach
Located just a really short drive away from Hiriketiya Beach, Dickwella Beach is another stunning destination worth exploring. This unspoilt stretch of white sand boasts an impressive view of the Indian ocean and some of the most striking sunsets in Sri Lanka.
Tangalle beach
Just a short drive away from Hiriketiya Beach is the stunning Tangalle beach. With its white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s an idyllic spot to spend the day relaxing or swimming in the ocean. With its gorgeous scenery, Tangalle beach is an ideal spot for a day trip when you’re in Hiriketiya.
4. Experience the beauty of wildlife
For nature enthusiasts, nearby wildlife sanctuaries provide a chance to encounter some of Sri Lanka’s incredible biodiversity.
Experience a safari tour in Yala National Park, the second largest national park in Sri Lanka, and witness the diverse wildlife it offers. At Yala National Park, you’ll encounter an abundance of leopards, elephants, sloth bears, sambars, jackals, spotted deer, peacocks, and crocodiles. Yala National Park is renowned as one of the top destinations worldwide for leopard sightings.
You can also visit Udawalawe National Park, an incredible wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka.
5. Visit Donda point lighthouse
The historical Donda Point Lighthouse is situated just a 30-minute drive away from the picturesque Hiriketiya Beach. Standing tall on the hilltop, it’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka.
Next to the Donda Point lighthouse, there’s a beautiful beach ideal for relaxation. There’s also a restaurant on-site. When we visited, we were the only customers, making it an excellent spot for those looking to enjoy a beautiful setting without the crowds.
6. Work work work at Verse Collective
If you’re looking for a place to work, Verse Collective in Hiriketiya is the perfect spot. It’s a cool and trendy workspace offering desks and private offices with high-speed internet access, making it ideal for remote workers or digital nomads.
Relax outside on the terrace in between tasks, soak up the sun and take advantage of their delicious coffee and food selection. Whether you’re looking for a place to work or just want to take part in their events, Verse Collective is the perfect spot for creatives and entrepreneurs.
7. Mulkirigala rock temple
Located in the Hambantota District, Mulkirigala Rock Temple is a popular religious site for both locals and tourists. Its unique location on a large rock makes it a spectacular sight to see.
The distance from Hiriketiya is approximately a 30-40 minute drive.
Climb 500 steps to reach the temple and admire the detailed paintings and statues inside its caves. The views from the top are stunning, providing a panoramic vista of the surrounding countryside.
Make sure to dress modestly and respect the temple’s religious significance while visiting this beautiful and culturally significant site.
Tip! If you’re heading from Hiriketiya to Udawalawe for an afternoon safari, we recommend taking a detour to Mulkirigala along the way. It’s definitely worth considering, as it adds an extra touch of adventure and exploration to your journey.
8. Visit Turtle point Dickwella
Just a short tuk-tuk ride away, Turtle Point in Dickwella is a must-visit for nature lovers and those interested in marine life.
Turtles visit this spot daily, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to watch and feed them. The beach is also perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and just soaking up some sun on its golden sands.
9. Have a drink at Smoke & Bitters
Smoke and Bitters, right next to Dickwella beach, is honored as one of Asia’s top 50 bars – and believe us, their drinks are amazing! Plus, their food is super tasty, making it the perfect spot for a dinner and drinks!
10. Go for run!
With its scenic and peaceful surroundings, Hiriketiya is the perfect place to go for a morning or evening run. Enjoy the fresh ocean breeze as you jog along the beach or explore nearby paths.
Where to stay in Hiriketiya?
Hiriketiya offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s budget and preferences. From luxury villas and boutique hotels to guesthouses and homestays, you’ll find something that fits your needs. Most accommodations are located just a short walk away from the beach, allowing you to easily enjoy the sun, sand, and surf whenever you please.
Where to eat in Hiriketiya?
Hiriketiya has many different restaurants, cafes, and bars to suit everyone’s tastes. If you want a memorable dining experience, go to one of the beachfront restaurants for amazing views and delicious local seafood. If you just want something casual, try the street food stalls or local restaurants for traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. And if you’re looking for a fun night out, there are lively bars and clubs on the beach with drinks, music, and dancing.
Hiriketiya has something for everyone, and it’s no wonder that this small town is becoming one of Sri Lanka’s most popular destinations.
Some recommendations:
Smoke & Bitters – Exceptional cuisine and top-notch cocktails await in Sri Lanka
Bahia Hiriketiya – Great for lunch/brunch
Dot’s Bay house
Garlic Cafe – Fantastic local cuisine at budget-friendly prices.
Malu Poke – Poke bowls
Verce Collective
When should I visit Hiriketiya?
Hiriketiya is a great destination all year round, but the best time to visit is during dry season between November and April. During this period you’ll have the chance to enjoy warm temperatures, stunning beach days and get more consistent swells for surfing.
The months of August, September, and October also offer pleasant weather if you don’t mind a bit of rain. No matter when you visit, Hiriketiya is sure to charm and delight with its natural beauty.
How long to stay in Hiriketiya?
The duration of your vacation depends on your preference and the type of experience you desire. For a relaxing getaway, two or three days should suffice to enjoy the beaches and nearby attractions.
If you seek adventure, allocate four or five days to unwind on the beach and partake in activities like surfing and yoga.
In our case, we stayed for two weeks, balancing work and exploration of nearby attractions and beaches.
How to get to Hiriketiya?
Where is Hiriketiya? Hiriketiya is nestled on the eastern end of Dickwella town, which can be reached with just a half an hour’s drive from Matara or a scenic three-hour journey from Colombo.
from Colombo ?
Train
To get to Hiriketiya, you can catch a train to Matara. Upon arrival in Matara, it’s easy to find a tuktuk that will take you to Hiriketiya in just about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Matara to Dickwella, which is located right next to Hiriketiya.
Alternatively, you can also opt for a train to the closer Wewurukannala train station, which is only 10 minutes away from Hiriketiya. Please note that there are fewer trains operating to Wewurukannala. You can check the train schedules here.
Private taxi
The distance from Colombo airport to Hiriketiya is approximately 201 km, and the estimated travel time by car is around 3 hours.
from Galle ?
Private taxi
The most efficient and convenient option for traveling from Galle to Hiriketiya is by taxi. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, subject to traffic and road conditions.
Bus
There are regular buses that operate between Galle and Matara, with an approximate travel time of 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Train
To reach Hiriketiya, you can hop on a train to Wewurukannala train station, followed by a quick 10-minute tuk-tuk ride.
from Mirissa ?
Tuktuk
The journey from Mirissa to Hiriketiya takes approximately one hour by tuktuk, and arranging transportation is quite convenient. Make sure to negotiate the price in advance.
Train
You can easily travel by train from Mirissa to Wewurukannala, just like you can from Colombo and Galle.
Bus
Taking the bus is the most economical choice, although it may not provide the utmost comfort. The majority of buses will take you to Matara, where you will then need to transfer to another bus heading to Dickwella.
from Ella ?
Private transport is the optimal choice for traveling from Ella. It is recommended to make arrangements in advance and agree on the price to avoid any inconvenience.
from Arugam Bay?
Private Taxi
Traveling from Arugam Bay to Hiriketiya, a private taxi is the most convenient and fast option. The journey typically takes around 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. It’s a good idea to confirm the cost in advance to avoid any surprises.
Bus
Although it takes longer, traveling by bus is an economical option.
First, take a bus from Arugam Bay (Pottuvil) to Monaragala. From Monaragala, catch another bus to Matara, then a final bus to Dickwella. From Dickwella, Hiriketiya is just a short tuk-tuk ride away or you can also walk.
Please note that this can take up to 6-7 hours, depending on bus schedules and traffic.
Rent a Tuk Tuk!
We strongly suggest renting a tuk-tuk and embarking on a journey to Hiriketiya, making stops at other locations along the way.
Is it worth to visit Hiriketiya?
Absolutely! With its beautiful, unspoiled coastline and stunning azure waters, this beach is guaranteed to be a highlight of your Sri Lanka travels. From surfing and yoga classes to relaxing beachside massages and sunset cruises, there are plenty of activities for you to enjoy. Plus, the local restaurants serve up some amazing seafood dishes that cannot be missed!
