Hikkaduwa National Park
National Park Coastal national park protecting coral reefs and mangroves
A coastal marine park in southern Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa National Park is visited for coral reefs, snorkeling, surfing and turtle sightings off Hikkaduwa’s beaches.
Hikkaduwa National Park is a marine protected area on Sri Lanka’s south-western coast near the town of Hikkaduwa. It conserves nearshore coral reef and coastal waters important for marine biodiversity.
The park includes shallow fringing reef that is popular for snorkelling and diving, with colourful reef fish and coral formations close to shore. Sea turtles and small reef sharks are among the marine species commonly seen in the protected waters.
The area was set aside to protect coral reefs and associated marine life from overuse and habitat loss. Management focuses on balancing tourism activity with reef conservation.
The park sits off the coast of Southern Province near Hikkaduwa town, on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, roughly south of Colombo along the main coastal route.
- Coral reef access: Shallow fringing reef lies within easy snorkelling distance from the beach near Hikkaduwa town.
How to Get to Hikkaduwa National Park #
Hikkaduwa National Park lies off the coast near the town of Hikkaduwa, approximately 100 km south of Colombo. Travelers usually reach the town by road or by train on the coastal line; local boat operators in Hikkaduwa run snorkeling and dive trips to the park.
Tips for Visiting Hikkaduwa National Park #
- Arrive early at the main snorkeling sites to avoid crowded reef tours from Hikkaduwa town.
- Local operators often run turtle-watching and snorkeling trips-ask which sites are being visited on the day for the best visibility.
- Stick to licensed operators; boat approaches can damage reefs and responsible operators will brief guests on reef etiquette.
Best Time to Visit Hikkaduwa National Park #
The best time for reef activities is December through March when sea conditions and visibility are at their best.
Weather & Climate near Hikkaduwa National Park #
Hikkaduwa National Park's climate is classified as Tropical Rainforest - Tropical Rainforest climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 23°C to 31°C. Heavy rainfall (2950 mm/year), wettest in May.
January
January is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (121 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Significant rainfall (114 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is hot, feeling like 30°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (154 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is the hottest month, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (291 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is the hottest month, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (401 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (246 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (208 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (204 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (253 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (399 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (344 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Heavy rain (215 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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