Hikkaduwa, a stunning beach town on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, is famed for its beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and most notably, its sea turtles. Turtle Beach, located in Hikkaduwa, has become a must-visit destination for travellers who crave a blend of nature, marine life, and adventure. Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about Turtle Beach Hikkaduwa and why this destination deserves a spot on your travel list.
The Location: Where is Turtle Beach?
Turtle beach is situated around 100 kilometres south of Colombo. It lies along the southern coast, easily accessible via train, bus, or car from Colombo. The town has become a bustling tourist spot, known for its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and gorgeous beaches. Turtle Beach, specifically, is located along the main stretch of Hikkaduwa Beach and exactly behind the Hikka Tranz Hotel. What sets Turtle Beach apart from other beaches in Sri Lanka is the chance to see sea turtles up close. These gentle creatures often come ashore to get feed, offering visitors a rare opportunity to interact with turtles.
Exact location on Google Maps
The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Turtle Beach is between November and April, when the sea is calm, and the weather is perfect for beach activities. During these months, you’re more likely to see turtles, and the visibility for snorkeling is excellent. However, the turtles can be found at Turtle Beach all year round. While the beach can still be enjoyed year-round, the monsoon season (May to October) can bring rough seas and limited opportunities for water-based activities. The earlier you visit in the morning, the fewer tourists you’ll see. This means you’ll have a better experience, with turtles swimming around you in a quieter, more peaceful setting without the crowds.
What You will Experience at Turtle Beach
The wild turtles in Hikkaduwa are native to this part of the coast and can be seen all year while snorkeling along the beaches. You can also spot them from the shore when they come close to feed on seaweed. They regularly come in to feed, making this area one of Sri Lanka’s top tourist attractions. These turtles are completely free in the wild and have been coming to the same spot for many years to feed and lay their eggs. There are conservation workers nearby who help tourists gather seaweed to feed the turtles. They also make sure no one touches or harms the animals.
Turtle Beach is a public beach, and there’s no entry fee. It’s completely free to visit. Watch out for people who may give you seaweed to feed the turtles without telling you anything. Afterward, they might ask for a large amount of money. It’s a good idea to ask the price first or just not accept the seaweed. This is a well-known scam at Turtle Beach. Snorkelling at the Turtle Beach isn’t the best because of the rocks. It’s better to go snorkelling at the beach near the Coral Sands Hotel, which is just 500 meters away.
Where to Stay Near Turtle Beach
Luxury Resorts
For those looking for a luxurious stay, there are several upscale resorts near Turtle Beach, offering stunning sea views, top-notch amenities, and easy beach access. These resorts provide a perfect balance of comfort and nature.
Hikka Tranz Hotel
Hikka Sandy Pearl Beach Resort
Budget-Friendly Guesthouses
Travelers on a budget will also find plenty of affordable guesthouses and homestays near Turtle Beach. Many of these accommodations offer a more authentic local experience while being just a short walk from the beach.
