The Surf Window

Hikkaduwa

Southern Province, Sri Lanka

Reef breakIntermediate

Sri Lanka's original surf hub on the south coast, Hikkaduwa has been attracting surfers since the 1970s, a reef break over coral just offshore that delivers consistent rights in a beach resort setting with a laid-back traveller culture.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalSSW (195°)
WindowSSE–WSW (150°–240°)
Size–S 1–2m at 10–14s

Wind

NE

Light to N under 15 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

Nov–Apr

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Reef break

Bottom

Coral reef

Shape

Right-hander peeling along the reef

Length

80–150m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate to advanced
  • •Why: Coral reef break requires experience, shallow at low tide

Hazards

  • •Coral reef, booties recommended
  • •Can be very crowded, the south coast's most famous surf spot after Arugam Bay
  • •Sea urchins on the reef

Local Tips

  • •The main reef break is directly in front of the Narigama beach area
  • •Hikkaduwa's marine national park surrounding the reef is excellent for snorkeling at low tide
  • •The town has Sri Lanka's best surf shop density and board rental

Location

Map showing the location of Hikkaduwa in Southern Province, Sri Lanka

6.1279, 80.1048