Sri Lanka's coastal towns
π Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka Itβs a 20-minute drive from Galle Fort. Compared to Bentota, which was quieter with fewer people in our previous stop, Hikkaduwa is livelier with more activities. Itβs convenient for food,ππ drinks, πΈπΈdaily supplies, and has a strong local vibe. Turtles π’ π Turtle Beach - Hikkaduwa You can spot turtles in the shallows both morning and afternoon. You can buy seaweed (only 200 LKR) to feed them.πΊ Local elders will specially lure turtles over to visitors (note: thereβs a catch here β check my other post for tips).π± Snorkeling π€Ώ π Hikkaduwa Beach/Turtle Beachππ No need to go out to sea β you can see small fish right in the shallows, which is a big highlight. But we didnβt go because we didnβt want to get up early, and it was too hot at noon. (It seems you can also take a boat for diving or a glass-bottom boat to see turtles.) Fish Market & Vegetable Market π π Turn left out of the train station, diagonally opposite (no sign visible)β¨ ππYou can explore the local market, buy fresh seafood and get it cooked on the spot. Prices are reasonable (except for some veggies and fruits). You can also buy small durians here β 40 RMB each. PS: Check my separate guide for details on this market.π π Restaurants for Chinese taste budsππ π Southern Cool Spot Restaurant Great as a regular dining spot β open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, even late-night snacks. Prices are affordable.π€οΈ We also tried Dine Fine Restaurant, which has good Google ratings, but it was just average.β‘ π Beach Volleyball There are many volleyball nets by the sea. Local young people often play in teams, and visitors can join in directly.ποΈποΈ π΅ Unexpected local music festival February 14th must be some local special occasion (not a full moon, though). π A music festival started at 7 PM on the outdoor football field behind our homestay and went on until 2 AM β can you believe it???π π If youβre already planning to visit southern Sri Lanka (Galle, Mirissa, etc.), Hikkaduwa is worth a stop.ππ #HealingIslandLife #SeafoodFreedom #Durian #SriLankaSeafood #SriLankaDurianFreedom #Hikkaduwa #SriLanka #SriLankaTravel #Galle #GalleFort