Hikkaduwa National Park (Coral Sanctuary)
About This Place
Hikkaduwa National Park (Coral Sanctuary)
Sri Lanka's only gazetted coral reef marine national park, located along the coast of Hikkaduwa on the southwest coast. The shallow reef stretches 4 km along the shore with coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, hawksbill turtles, reef sharks, and moray eels. The beach itself is lively with surfing, beach bars, and a thriving backpacker scene. Glass-bottom boat tours and snorkelling are the main reef activities.
Difficulty
🧭 easy
Best Time
📅 November to April (calm seas); good snorkelling visibility November–March.
Safety Rating
Accessibility & Visitor Info
Beach is fully accessible; snorkelling gear hire on the beach; glass-bottom boats for non-swimmers; reef walking is discouraged to protect coral.
📖 Legends & Stories
Hikkaduwa's reef was once far more extensive but was damaged by the 1998 El Niño bleaching event and by illegal dynamite fishing. The declaration of a marine sanctuary helped recovery efforts. Local fishing communities maintain traditions of leaving offerings to sea spirits before each voyage. The beach gained fame in the 1970s as a hippie trail destination.
Location
📍 Find It Here
6.139800, 80.101300
Community
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