Hiriketiya is a small bay, located in the village of Dickwella on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, and is known for its laid-back atmosphere, good surfspots and tropical beaches. As such, it is one of our favourite beach destinations in Sri Lanka. What was once a hidden beach has become a popular stop for travellers who like a mix of relaxation, good food and surfing, without it feeling massive. In this blog, we share our highlights and tips on what to do in Hiriketiya (Dickwella). You will find our favourite beaches, restaurants, activities and practical tips, so that you are well prepared for your trip!
General information about Sri Lanka
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How do you travel to Hiriketiya (Dickwella)?
Hiriketiya is located on the south coast of Sri Lanka, making it easily accessible from both Colombo and other popular destinations along the coast and inland. Many travellers combine Hiriketiya with places like Weligama, Tangalle, Ella or a safari in Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park. Depending on your route and travel style, you can opt for the train, bus, taxi, tuktuk or a private transfer.
From Weligama, Ahangama or other south coast towns to Hiriketiya
If you come from Galle, Ahangama or Weligama, Hiriketiya is quite doable by private tuktuk or taxi. The ride takes on average 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your starting point and traffic.
Local buses run regularly along the coast and are cheap, but often take longer due to the many stops. If you want to travel more comfortably and faster, a taxi or private transfer is a fine option. You can easily arrange these through your accommodation or with the app PickMe (Sri Lanka).
Tip: Agree a price in advance when travelling by tuk-tuk taxi to avoid surprises.
From Ella to Hiriketiya
If you travel from inland, for example from Ella, the landscape changes slowly from green hills to tropical coast along the way. By taxi, private transfer or your own tuktuk, you'll do an average here 3 to 3.5 hours about.
A cheaper option is the bus, usually with a change in Wellawaya or Matara. In that case, bear in mind that the travel time can increase.
Tip: Travelling with your own tuktuk? Then choose to travel via the B35 travel. This is because the road runs right through two national parks, so there is a good chance of encountering wild elephants!
From Yala or Udawalawe National Park to Hiriketiya
After a safari in Yala or Udawalawe National Park, Hiriketiya is a lovely place to take a break. From either national park, you'll travel in about 2 to 3 hours To Hiriketiya.
Many accommodations are happy to help arrange transport, often combined with an early safari and direct transit to Hiriketya. This is ideal if you don't feel like planning everything yourself, so be sure to check with your accommodation!
Travelling through Sri Lanka by tuktuk
We did our entire trip through Sri Lanka by tuktuk and it was, without a doubt, the most fun way to travel around. It is not only practical, but also an adventure in itself! We hired our tuktuk through tuktukrental.com, an absolute must that will make your trip really extra special. And with the discount code ‘THOUSANDTRAVELMILES‘ you also get a nice discount!
Tip: Click through the link in this blog to the website of Tuktukrental, then the discount will be applied automatically. Convenient, right?
Tips for transport in Hiriketiya
Hiriketiya is small and manageable, but with your own transport you can also easily discover the various beaches and other places in the area. The roads are relatively quiet and therefore self-driving is fine. Don't have your own transport? No problem, there are plenty of options too:
- Tuktuk: For short distances in and around Hiriketiya, the tuktuk is ideal. You arrange a tuktuk taxi through your accommodation, but just as easily by raising your hand along the road. There is almost always a tuktuk driving by. Clearly agree on a price in advance, so there are no surprises on arrival. You can also use the app PickMe (Sri Lanka), similar to Uber.
- Scooter hire: A scooter is perfect for driving around at your own pace to beaches like Silent Beach or Goyambokka Beach. Scooters are easy to rent, check with your accommodation.
- Car with driver: For longer distances or if you are travelling with several people, a car with driver is comfortable. Accommodations often help with this, for example for the next destination along the south coast.
Tip: To use PickMe, you need internet. Therefore, arrange a local SIM card or opt for an e-sim, for example via Airalo or Saily. We have had good experiences with both parties.
Read also: Sri Lanka travel itinerary: complete itinerary for 2, 3 or 4 weeks
Read also: Tuktuk hire in Sri Lanka: tips, costs and our experience!
What to do in Hiriketiya (Dickwella)
Hiriketiya may be small, but make no mistake: there is a lot to do. From surfing and beach days to massages and cool spots for a sunset. Most travellers stay here 3 nights minimum. This gives you plenty of time to explore Hiriketiya!
1. Relaxing and surfing at Hiriketiya Beach
Hiriketiya Beach is a beach destination to add to your itinerary through Sri Lanka. Although Hiriketiya is not officially a village but a district of Dickwella, it feels like a destination in itself. The small, semi-circular bay has a cosy atmosphere and is ideal for enjoying the sun, sea and beach for a while.
In addition, Hiriketiya is one of the best places on the south coast to learn to surf. Beginners can book a surf lesson here, but you can also easily rent a surfboard yourself and get into the water. A 1.5-hour surf lesson costs an average of LKR 6,500 (€18 depending on the rate) per person. You can rent a surfboard from around LKR 2,000 (€6, depending on the exchange rate) per day.
Tip: Keep in mind that it can be quite crowded with surfers here. You can still swim and float in the sea just fine, but choose a spot a little more to the side of the bay to do so.
2. Chilling out at La Playa
We were mostly to be found at the local beach bars on Hiriketiya beach, but in between is La Playa, a luxury beach club that feels just a little different from the rest. Here you can use the swimming pool, relax on beanbags and enjoy the sea view. Ideal for a day of doing absolutely nothing! If you want to get a spot here, it is smart to come in the morning. Bear in mind that service is at Sri Lankan speed, so enjoy yourself and take your time.
Good to know: although there is a minimum spend (what you have to spend minimally) on the card, it was not strictly enforced in practice.
3. Food and cocktails at Smoke & Bitters
An evening at Smoke & Bitters is really not to be missed. Among the best bars in Asia, this restaurant and cocktail bar is known for its perfect cocktails and dishes from the smoker. And if that is not enough, you also have a beautiful sea view here. It is therefore advisable to make reservations for a spot around sunset. You obviously pay more here than at other restaurants in Sri Lanka, but it's well worth it.
Tip: Book as early as possible. We wanted to book three days in advance and unfortunately had bad luck. So do you know your schedule? Then book right away!
4. Visit Silent Beach
About a 20-minute drive away is Silent Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. The beach is wide, surrounded by palm trees and it is relatively quiet here. The road to it is good and the beach is easily accessible by tuktuk or scooter. Parking will cost you 300 LKR (€0.83 depending on the exchange rate).
If you come by bus or taxi, let the driver know you want to get off at the Amanwella Resort. From the junction with the main road, it is about another 10 to 15-minute walk to the beach.
Tip: Don't be fooled by the calm appearance of Silent Beach. The sea can have strong currents here, so swimming is not always safe. Therefore, stay close to the shore and be careful.
5. Go chill out for a day at Goyambokka Beach
Next to Silent Beach is Goyambokka Beach, where the water tends to be calmer. This beach is perfect for picking a bed and not leaving it for a few hours. The atmosphere is relaxed and you will find several small restaurants.
6. Surfing and relaxing at Sjæl (Kudawella Beach)
A ten-minute drive from Hiriketiya is Kudawella Beach, where you will find Sjæl (formerly Calma). This is a combination surf school, café, yoga studio and accommodation. You can take surf lessons here for 8000 LKR (€20 depending on the exchange rate) or rent a board for 1000 LKR an hour (€3 depending on the exchange rate) and then settle in for pancakes, smoothie bowls or good coffee.
Are you a real surf fan and does this sound like your ideal holiday? Then you can also stay overnight at Sjæl And waking up every day with the beach on your doorstep!
7. Hiking to Blue Island
We can understand that in between beach days, you also want to do something. A nice place to visit then is Blue Island. You can walk straight to the island via a sandbank and have the opportunity to walk further up the footpath. Once at the top, you have a beautiful view over the sea. Ideal for a beautiful sunset or rise.
In calm weather, you can also do some good snorkelling here. Just keep in mind that there can be a lot of plastic rubbish which does take away a bit from the idyllic image.
8. Watch the sunset at Dickwella Beach
Is Hiriketiya Beach a bit too compact for an entire beach day for you? Then Dickwella Beach is a nice change. Dickwella Beach is elongated and sheltered behind sandbars and reefs, so the waves here are often calmer and you can swim well here. Unlike the small bay of Hiriketiya, Dickwella feels a lot more open and spacious. You'll find more beach beds and beach bars where you can easily hang out for a whole day.
Be sure to stay all day too, as it is also the perfect place to watch the sun slowly sink into the sea. Beach volleyball is often played there too and you can easily join in!
9. Go to Dondra Lighthouse
Another fun activity is a drive to Dondra Lighthouse. Located about a half-hour drive from Hiriketiya, Dondra lighthouse is Sri Lanka's tallest lighthouse and at the same time the southernmost point in the country. You can't climb the lighthouse, but the area is nice to walk around for a while.
Tip: combine your visit with a stop at one of the small bays nearby or get a juice at a local joint like Tree Juice Bar & Restaurant!
10. Other fun things to do in Hiriketiya
Hiriketiya may be small, but you definitely won't be bored here. Do you have some extra time besides beach days, the activities and surfing? Then there are plenty of other fun things to do. Here are a few more great tips:
- Shopping at The Village Collective: Want to pick up a nice souvenir? Then pop into The Village Collective. This is a small shop with handmade products from locals in the area, such as illustrations, posters and postcards themed on Sri Lanka. With your purchase, you directly support the local community! Win-win.
- Visit a local fish market in the area: Want to experience a bit more of everyday life outside the surf and beach scene? Then a visit to the fish market in Nilwella or Kudawella is fun to catch. It is especially lively here early in the morning. Do bear in mind that it is not a tourist attraction, but that is exactly what makes it interesting to see for a while.
- Explore beaches and villages around Hiriketiya: Around Hiriketiya are several beaches and small villages that you can easily reach by scooter or tuktuk. Think quiet bays, local roadside eateries and places where you hardly meet other travellers. Just by driving around, you often discover the nicest stops. Do you want some direction? Then drive in the direction of Tangalle or Mirissa.
- Go for a relaxing massage: One of the finest ways to relax in Hiriketiya is with a massage. At The Massage Shed, you can get both relaxation massages and traditional Ayurvedic treatments. Want something more luxurious? Then Tonic Spa in Dickwella is a good option.
Tips for good restaurants in Hiriketiya and Dickwella
Hiriketiya may be small, but good restaurants abound. From fresh fish and Sri Lankan curries to pizza, poke bowls and good coffee. These were our favourites in Hiriketiya:
- Wild Bakery: Perfect for breakfast or lunch. Get fresh sandwiches and good coffee here. Great if you want something other than rice and curry.
- Pizza House Hiriketiya: Fancy some comfort food? Then Pizza House is an easy choice. Don't expect culinary delights, but do expect a good pizza after a day at the beach or surfing.
- Bamboo Hut: One of those places you come for the atmosphere as well as the food. Run by a friendly family who cook Sri Lankan food with love. Especially the curries here are a must.
- Freedom Place: A relaxing place on the beach where you can have a good lunch and spend the day. If you order food and drinks here all day, your bed is free!
- MOND: One of the slightly hipper spots in Hiriketiya. Perfect for breakfast and coffee during the day, later in the day you can come here for a more elaborate dinner. The view from the rooftop terrace makes it extra nice.
- Malu Poké: Fancy something different then you can create your own poké bowl at Malu Poké. Ideal for lunch or if you don't feel like eating heavy food for a while.
- First Roti Hut: A simple roadside stall where you order fresh rotis with different fillings. Cheap, quick and surprisingly tasty. Perfect as a snack or quick bite. It is slightly more expensive than at other less popular spots but still cheap and ideal for taking to the beach.
- Smoke & Bitters: The place in Hiriketiya for an evening of good food and drink. This cocktail bar and restaurant is known for its dishes from the smoker and perfectly balanced cocktails. Slightly more expensive than average, but absolutely worth it. Book in advance and preferably go around sunset.
- Duni's Hoppers: Duni's Hoppers is one of the best places in Hiriketiya for a local breakfast or early lunch. Here you will eat traditional Sri Lankan hoppers, both sweet and savoury, freshly prepared and full of flavour.
Can't get enough of good food in Sri Lanka? With our Sri Lanka Google Maps card you always have all our restaurant tips and hotspots to hand.
Our favourite addresses in Hiriketiya and Dickwella
In terms of accommodation, Hiriketiya also has many fine options. From cosy guesthouses to stylish hotels and lively surf hostels, there is something for every travel style. We often book last minute ourselves and therefore always save a few good places. These were our favourites in Hiriketiya:
- Dots Bay House: Dots Bay House is without doubt one of the nicest places to stay at Hiriketiya Beach. The beach is literally around the corner and the atmosphere is open and social. There is often live music, a pool and a restaurant where you can easily meet other travellers.
- Gold Ocean House: is Dots Bay House just out of your budget, but do you want to be close to the beach? Then Gold Ocean House is a very fine option. Just a two-minute walk from Hiriketiya Beach, this small-scale guesthouse is run by a lovely local family. Simple, clean and in a prime location.
- Casa Luna Home Stay: This is a small-scale and quiet accommodation just outside the hustle and bustle of Hiriketiya. The rooms are simple but clean, and the relaxed atmosphere in particular makes this a nice place to unwind.
- Wilson's Place: Wilson's Place is just outside the busiest part of Hiriketiya, making it nice and quiet. Within 7 to 10 minutes you are still on the beach. The rooms are modern and there is a large garden with nice seating areas.
- Salt House: Salt House is a stylish accommodation just a minute's walk from the beach. Your stay includes breakfast, yoga classes and surfboard hire, making it a fine all-in option.
- Ayubowan Guesthouse: Ayubowan is a very good budget option with a central location. Rooms are clean, have air conditioning, good beds and a hot shower.
- Surf Heavens: Surf Heavens is a simple but good accommodation where we have stayed ourselves. The rooms are spacious and tidy and the owner is friendly and helpful. It is close to Dickwella Beach and is a fine base if you mainly want to surf and relax, with no fuss.
How many days do you need in Hiriketiya?
Hiriketiya is one of those places where it is easy to linger longer than planned. Although the village is small, the atmosphere is relaxed. We recommend 3 nights minimum stay in Hiriketiya. This will give you enough time to explore the area, take a surf lesson, eat well and just do nothing in between.
Stay your 4 to 5 nights, then you have the space to explore several beaches in the area, book a massage, catch a sunset at Dickwella Beach and visit Silent Beach or Goyambokka Beach, for example, without feeling like you have to rush. This is also ideal if you want to combine a few days of surfing or yoga with beach time!
Frequently asked questions about Hiriketiya
Hiriketiya may not be a big resort, but it is precisely that small scale that makes this bay on Sri Lanka's south coast so popular. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Hiriketiya, so that you are well prepared for your trip!
1. What is there to do in Hiriketiya?
Hiriketiya is best known for surfing, beach days and relaxing. Popular activities include surfing lessons at Hiriketiya Beach, booking a massage, watching sunset at Dickwella Beach and taking trips to Silent Beach or Blue Island. Hiriketiya is not a place for sightseeing, but rather ideal for enjoying sun, beach and sea.
2. How many days do you need for Hiriketiya?
We recommend a minimum of three nights stay in Hiriketiya. This will give you enough time to relax on the beach, take a surf lesson and explore the area. If you have more time and really want to get into the rhythm of Hiriketiya, four to five nights is ideal.
3. Is Hiriketiya suitable for beginners with surfing?
Yes, Hiriketiya is one of the best places on Sri Lanka's south coast to learn to surf. The bay protects against high waves and the surfing conditions are suitable for beginners. Along the beach, you will find several surf schools where you can easily book a lesson. If you are already experienced, you can also easily rent a surfboard and take to the water on your own.
4. Which surf shops in Hiriketiya offer surfing lessons?
Along Hiriketiya Beach are several small surf shops and schools where you can book a surf lesson on the spot. Most lessons last about 1.5 hours and are suitable for beginners. You can also rent loose boards at many surf shops if you want to surf independently.
5. What does surfing in Hiriketiya cost?
A surfing lesson in Hiriketiya costs on average 6,000 to 8,000 LKR (€18 to €20) per person for about 1.5 hours. Renting a surfboard usually costs around 1,000 LKR per hour or about €6 per day, depending on the type of board and duration.
*Prices depend on the exchange rate
6. What are the best beaches near Hiriketiya?
The most famous beach is Hiriketiya Beach, where you can surf and relax. For more space and tranquillity Dickwella Beach a fine option, within walking distance of Hiriketiya. Slightly further away are Silent Beach and Goyambokka Beach, two of the most beautiful beaches in the area, ideal for a day trip by tuktuk or scooter.
7. Is Hiriketiya suitable for swimming?
You can swim at Hiriketiya Beach, but keep an eye out for surfers and waves. For calmer waters, Dickwella Beach is often a better choice. At beaches like Silent Beach, currents can be strong, so always check that swimming is safe and stay close to shore.
8. What are popular restaurants and cafes in Hiriketiya?
Hiriketiya has many great places to eat. Popular restaurants and cafés include Smoke & Bitters for dinner and cocktails, Duni's Hoppers for breakfast, Malu Poke for lunch, MOND for brunch with a view and First Roti Hut for cheap local food. Along the beach, you will also find many small tents serving fresh fish and curries.
9. What are good hotels and accommodation in Hiriketiya?
Hiriketiya has a mix of guesthouses, boutique hotels and surf hostels. Popular accommodations are Dots Bay House for a social atmosphere, Wilson's Place for peace and comfort, Ayubowan Guesthouse for budget travellers and Salt House for those seeking a little more luxury. Most accommodations are within walking distance of the beach.
10. Where can I book accommodation at Hiriketiya Beach?
Most accommodation around Hiriketiya Beach can be found through platforms such as Booking.com, Hostelworld or directly through the accommodation itself. In high season, it is smart to book in advance as Hiriketiya is popular and supply is limited.
11. Is Hiriketiya busy?
Hiriketiya is popular, especially in high season, but feels less massive than many other spots on the south coast. During the day, the beach can be crowded by surfers, but the atmosphere remains relaxed. Out of season and in the morning, it tends to be quieter.
12. Is Hiriketiya suitable for families?
Hiriketiya is especially popular with backpackers and surfers. With young children, Dickwella Beach is often more pleasant because of calmer swimming waters and more space. For families who like beach and relaxation, Hiriketiya may be suitable, but it is not a typical family destination (if you ask us).
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Hiriketiya may not be a big beach resort, but it's that very small scale that makes it such a nice stop on Sri Lanka's south coast for us. It is a place where you don't have to run from highlight to highlight, but where your days fill up automatically with beach, surfing and good food! So as far as we are concerned, Hiriketiya should not be missing from any itinerary through Sri Lanka. We hope our tips will help you plan your stay here in a relaxed and smart way. Do you have any questions or would you like us to think along with you about your itinerary? Feel free to send us a message at Instagram, we are happy to think with you.
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