Hiriketiya Beach: Is it Worth the Hype? (Ultimate Guide)

It's the off-season here in Southern Sri Lanka in May. With rates much lower, we decided to take a small road trip down to Matara, Dickwella and Hiriketiya. Last year, we were in Pasikudah during the off-season, and it didn't go well. But we've read so much about Hiriketiya Beach being a stunner throughout the year.

It's much further away from Mirissa and Weligama, and those who are on tight travel schedules generally skip this destination. Is it really worth going though? Here's all you need to know about Hiriketiya Beach, how to get there and what it offers.

Where is Hiriketiya Beach

Hiriketiya beach, famous for its horseshoe-shaped bay, is located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, bordering Dikwella. It has a year-long good weather, and is one of the best surfing spots on the island for beginner surfers cause the waves are much calmer. Hiriketiya beach was a hidden gem cherished by the locals in the area until about 5 years back. Access to the beach is quite a challenge even today, so it remained a secret bay for a long time.

Can you swim in Hiriketiya?

Absolutely! Hiriketiya, for me, looks like a giant pool. The waves slightly hit the extending islands, and just a jostle comes to the shore. There are a lot of kids, both tourists and locals, swimming in the water. The day we went was a Saturday evening, and the beach was somewhat crowded. Weekends are usually when the locals come to swim, so if you're looking for peace, weekdays are the best.

Can you surf at Hiriketiya Beach?

Yes. Hiriketiya is one of the top places for surfing. There are surf classes right there on the beach as well. If you're a newbie, you can sign up for surf classes and get trained in one of the best beginner surf beaches in Asia. You can surf at Hiriketiya Beach all year round, as the weather is generally stable.

Which is better, Hiriketiya or Dickwella?

Dikwella in a heartbeat! Dickwella beach is about a 2-minute drive from Hiriketiya beach, and it's so calm and serene. We went during Vesak, which is a 2-day national holiday in Sri Lanka, and even the locals were out of sight; the entire beach was lonely. Here's a video of how empty it was:

Our hotel was on the Dickwella coast, and we were blessed to have the entire beach to ourselves that morning. Hiriketiya beach, on the other hand, was quite packed with backpackers taking early morning surf lessons.

Which Side of Sri Lanka has the Best Beaches?

I have been to all 4 major beach areas in Sri Lanka, and I believe Southern beaches are the best. Not only do they look serene, but the entire southern vibe is just so comforting. The food is great, the hotels are nice, the people are welcoming, and they're easily accessible from Colombo via the Southern Expressway.

What to Avoid in Hiriketiya?

Avoid shops labelled 'Foreigners Only'. There are vendors and shop owners who deliberately deny services to locals. This is common in most tourist areas, including Hikkaduwa. Supporting them not only means overpaying, but also encouraging racial discrimination.

Similarly, be cautious of tuk-tuks parked near hotels and restaurants; they tend to overcharge and control who can pick up passengers in those spots. To avoid overpaying or causing issues for honest drivers, walk a short distance away to hail a taxi.

Things to do in Hiriketiya Beach

If you're visiting Hiriketiya beach and wondering what to do, here are some things to keep your days busy: If you're a serial surfer, you'd need about a week. If you're visiting just for the hype, 2 days would be ideal for Hiriketiya and Dickwella.

Surf & Swim

If you're not going to Surf or Swim, there's no point coming to Hiriketiya. The beach is uniquely protected to train even the weakest surfer, so give it a try.

Get a Spa Massage

There are many spas in the area, and some ayurvedic spas are really good. However, make sure you check reviews before you go. And avoid any spa that says 'foreigners only'.

Swing at Mahi Mahi or Machan

There are many Coconut tree swings along the south coast, and if you missed the one in Unawatuna, Dikwella is your calling. The swings at Mahi Mahi and Machan are scenic attractions, and many people come here for pics.

Walk to Dickwella Beach

Dikwella beach is a must-visit when in Hiriketiya. If you're not a party person, staying in Dickwella during the trip is also a great idea, as it's much laid back compared to Hiriketiya beach.

Dickwella Beach

Do Yoga

If you've been to Bali, you'll find Hiriketiya giving a similar kind of vibe. Let's assume surfing is not down your alley, you've got Yoga to fill up that space. There are many yoga classes facing the serene sea. Once again, make sure you check for reviews before you sign up.

Take a Southern Cooking Class

Southern Sri Lankan cuisine is quite unique. They're famous for the spicy curries and the unique preserved fish preparation called 'Ambulthiyal'. Many Sri Lankans still struggle to make the perfect southern meal, so while you're there, don't hesitate to take a class to learn the know-how.

Sunset Hangout and Midnight Live Music

There's no way you'll miss the music and fun while you're in Hiriketiya. There are many coastal hangout spots, bars, restaurants and hostel fronts that host Live Music evenings and fuel the party scene. Just a walk down the road and you'll find a place that fits your vibe.

Head to Tangalle Beach

I guess you've already completed Matara at this point on your way to Hiriketiya, I'd recommend you head to Goyambokka Beach in Tangalle, which is about an hour's drive.

How to get there: Head to Dodampahala junction and get the 32 or 32-2 bus that's heading towards Lunugamwehera or Unakuruwa (you can tell the conductor you're going to Tangalle, he'll inform you at the right stop). You can get a tuk-tuk from there to the beach. Tangalle is a quaint little local village where you can experience authentic Down South Sri Lanka.

Day Trip to Yala National Park

For those who are not heading to the Eastern side of Sri Lanka, covering Yala National Park from Hiriketiya is the best option. It's only 2 hours away. Keep in mind that the safari is somewhat expensive, costing about 40$ p.p. for the entrance fee.

How to get there: Most hostels and hotels arrange round tours for Yala and Udawalawe National Parks. We recommend this as it's much more convenient and cheaper than travelling alone. But if you do insist, you can book a safari online. Or take the Kataragama bus from Dickwella to Tissamaharama and take a taxi to Yala from there. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to the Yala Palatupana entrance. This would take about 2.5 hours. From there, you must hire a Safari jeep for the adventure.

How to Get to Hiriketiya Beach?

Let me be honest, transport in Sri Lanka is still miles behind when compared to other countries like Turkey and Vietnam. Although the island is quite small, travelling between destinations is rather time-consuming. Here are the best ways to get to Hiriketiya Beach in Sri Lanka.

Colombo

• Southern Expressway (3 Hours on Private Vehicle | 4.5 Hours on Bus) - Take the bus from Colombo Fort Station to Kottawa Expressway, then take the bus to Matara. Then take the 32-2 bus to Dickwella, Dodampahala.

• Maradana-Beliatte Train (5 Hours) - Take the train towards Beliatte from Maradana Railway Station in Colombo and get down at Wewurukannala (4-minute walk from Dickwella).

• Galle Road Tangalle Bus (6.5 Hours) - Take the 32-2 bus from Pettah Station to Dickwella, Dodampahala.

Galle

Take the 32-2 bus from Galle Central Bus Stand to Dickwella. The total journey will take 2.5 hours.

Matara Fort

Ella

The most challenging route to Hiriketiya is Ella. You must get to Wellawaya Depot, from here take the 035 Matara Bus to Dickwella. This journey is 5 hours long.

Mirissa

Take the 32 bus from Mirissa to Dodampahala Junction, Dickwella. It'll take about 1.5 hours to get to Hiriketiya beach from Mirissa.

Uber in Hiriketiya

You can book either an Uber or a Pick Me taxi from Colombo to Hiriketiya, which will cost about 60$ one-way. You can also find Uber and Pick Me in Hiriketiya, Dickwella, Mirissa and the entire Southern Coast.

Where to Eat in Hiriketiya

Hiriketiya Beach is a highly touristic destination, and many restaurants lined up along the coast cater to tourists. They are aesthetically pleasing and delicious, but prices are crazy high compared to food in Colombo. Those who want the fancy stuff can try MARU, Crab and Dots Bay House.

But if you're looking for an authentic eating experience, we recommend heading a little away from the coast to the Beach Road. Here you'll find Yummy Food and Beverage, Delicious Cafe and Smoke and Bitters. If you head further towards Dickwella main road, you'll find the GOOD Kitchen. If you want to double down on the local experience, STS Food Centre is a decent spot too.

Is Hiriketiya Beach Worth Visiting

If you're a surfer, Hiriketiya is totally worth visiting. Regular beach lovers and Vitamin Sea absorbers like me find Hiriketiya a bit too overwhelming, as it's super crowded even during off-season.

Is Hiriketiya a Good Place for Working Nomads?

Yes, but it also depends on where you stay. There are some key hotels and guest houses in the beach stretch, like La Playa, which offers a stunning work view and comfortable accommodation. Then there are co-working hostels like Verse Collective that offer a space for nomads. Make sure you book your stay either in one of the co-working places or close to one.

Hiriketiya or Hikkaduwa?

I personally love Hikkaduwa as it's a full vacation package. I love the beaches and the vibe. Hiriketiya Beach is more laid back, but it's also quite congested. If you're a surfer, Hiriketiya is a better option. If you're a serious party person or travelling with family, Hikkaduwa has both.

Hiriketiya or Weligama?

If you're a beginner surfer, Hiriketiya offers a more intimate environment for you to practice surfing. Weligama, on the other hand, is a more established surfing spot with challenging waves to tackle. For those who just love beaches, Weligama offers a better experience.

Wrapping Up

So there you go! Our ultimate guide to Hiriketiya Beach - answering some of the most crucial questions for you. Have any questions? Drop them in the comments below!