Hiriketiya is a place to slow down, but there’s more to do than you’d think.
In the bay
- Take a surf lesson. The beach break is one of Sri Lanka’s best places to learn. See surf season.
- Watch the surfers at sunset from a café on the bay.
- Swim in the calmer middle of the bay in season.
- Do yoga. Several places run drop in classes, many on open air decks.
- Work from a café. Hiriketiya is a remote work favourite (long stays).
Nearby
- Wewurukannala Vihara (Dikwella): a temple known for its giant seated Buddha, a few minutes inland from Dikwella.
- Hummanaya blowhole: a natural blowhole a short tuk tuk ride east of Dikwella; most impressive when the swell is up.
- Dikwella beach: a long, quiet stretch next door for a walk.
- Tangalle: around 30 minutes east, with long wild beaches.
- Rekawa: further east, known for sea turtle nesting (go with a responsible, licensed operator).
Day trips
- Mirissa: whale watching (in season, roughly November to April).
- Galle Fort: the UNESCO listed old town, about 1h15 away.
- Mulkirigala: a rock temple with cave shrines and views over the jungle.
- Udawalawe National Park: elephant safaris, around two hours inland.
- Scooter the coast: rent a scooter (with a valid licence) and beach hop.
Frequently asked questions
Is there anything to do in Hiriketiya besides surfing?
Plenty: yoga, swimming, snorkelling on calm days, exploring temples and blowholes nearby, day trips to Tangalle and Mirissa, and a lot of very good food.