Quick answer
February is one of the best months for Hikkaduwa. The weather is dry and sunny, the sea is calm and visibility is good for snorkelling and diving. Sea turtles often feed in the shallows near the reef, and surf breaks offer waves for intermediate surfers. Dive sites include reefs and wrecks offshore. Hikkaduwa is livelier than many south coast beaches, with bars and restaurants along the main strip. It is about two hours from the airport and 30 minutes from Galle.
Key takeaways
- February is dry and calm in Hikkaduwa, with good visibility.
- Sea turtles often feed in the shallows near the reef.
- Reef breaks suit intermediate surfers.
- Dive sites include reefs and wrecks offshore.
- Hikkaduwa is livelier than many south coast beaches.
Hikkaduwa's weather in February
Hikkaduwa is in its dry season from December to April. February is one of the calmest months, with sunny days around 30°C, warm water and very little rain.
The sea is calm on most days, and visibility is good for snorkelling and diving, often 10 to 15 metres or more on the best days.
Swell from the south-west reaches the surf breaks, providing waves for surfers while the reef area stays calm.
Hikkaduwa also has a long beach stretching south towards Narigama and Thiranagama, with wider sand and a quieter feel than the main reef area. Walking the length of the beach in the late afternoon, when the light softens and the surfers are out, is one of the pleasures of a February stay.
- →Dry and sunny, around 30°C.
- →Calm sea, good visibility.
- →Waves at the surf breaks.
Snorkelling and turtles
Hikkaduwa's reef, close to shore in the northern part of the beach, is a protected marine area. Snorkelling here is easy, with fish, coral and often sea turtles feeding on seagrass in the shallows.
The turtles are used to people, but do not touch or feed them. Feeding with seaweed, a common practice, disrupts their natural behaviour.
Glass-bottom boats operate over the reef, but they can damage coral. Snorkelling from the beach is the better option.
The best snorkelling is in the morning, before the wind picks up and before the boats begin to move. On calm February mornings, the water over the reef is clear enough to see fish and coral from the surface, and the turtles are often already feeding in the shallows.
- →Protected reef close to shore.
- →Sea turtles in the shallows.
- →Do not touch or feed turtles.
Surfing in February
Hikkaduwa has several reef breaks, including the main reef, North Jetty and Benny's, suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. February brings consistent, clean waves.
Beginners are better served by Weligama, about an hour south, or by beach breaks with surf schools. Some schools in Hikkaduwa offer lessons on gentler days.
Board rental and surf shops are plentiful along the main road.
- →Main reef, North Jetty, Benny's.
- →Intermediate to advanced.
- →Beginners: Weligama.
Diving
Hikkaduwa has dive centres offering trips to reefs and wrecks. The wreck of the Conch, a 19th-century oil tanker, is a popular site, as are rocky reefs further offshore.
February is within the diving season, with calm seas and good visibility. Courses for beginners are available.
Choose dive centres with good safety records and certified instructors.
Hikkaduwa's dive season runs roughly from November to April, matching the dry months on the south-west coast. February sits in the middle of it, so boats run daily and conditions are usually at their most reliable.
The town and nightlife
Hikkaduwa has a long main road lined with bars, restaurants, guesthouses and shops. It is livelier than Mirissa's quieter corners or Tangalle, with music and beach parties at weekends.
Some travellers love the energy; others prefer quieter beaches. Staying at the northern or southern ends of the beach gives more peace.
The planners at Lankan Stays & Trails often suggest Hikkaduwa for travellers who want snorkelling and a social scene, with a quieter base afterwards.
Hikkaduwa's food scene is varied, with seafood restaurants on the beach, rice and curry places on the main road and cafes serving smoothie bowls to surfers. Sunset drinks on the beach are a ritual, with the sun dropping into the sea around 6.20pm in February.
Frequently asked questions
Is February a good time to visit Hikkaduwa?
Yes. February is dry and calm, with good visibility for snorkelling and diving and consistent waves at the surf breaks. Sea turtles are often seen in the shallows. It is one of the best months to visit Hikkaduwa.
Can you see turtles in Hikkaduwa?
Yes. Sea turtles often feed on seagrass in the shallows near the reef in the northern part of the beach. Snorkelling from the beach is the best way to see them. Do not touch or feed them, as feeding disrupts their natural behaviour.
Is Hikkaduwa good for beginner surfers?
It is better for intermediate and advanced surfers, with several reef breaks. Beginners are better served by Weligama, about an hour south, which has gentle beach waves and many surf schools. Some Hikkaduwa schools offer lessons on gentler days.
Is Hikkaduwa good for diving in February?
Yes. February is within the diving season, with calm seas and good visibility. Dive sites include reefs and wrecks, such as the Conch. Courses for beginners are available. Choose dive centres with good safety records and certified instructors.
Is Hikkaduwa too busy?
It is livelier than many south coast beaches, with bars and restaurants along the main road. Some travellers love the energy; others prefer quieter places. Staying at the northern or southern ends of the beach gives more peace and quiet.
How far is Hikkaduwa from Galle?
About 30 minutes by road. Hikkaduwa is also about two hours from the airport by expressway. Many travellers combine Hikkaduwa with Galle Fort and Unawatuna on a south-west coast stay.
Can I visit Hikkaduwa on a day trip from Galle?
Yes. Hikkaduwa is about 30 minutes from Galle, so a morning of snorkelling with the turtles followed by lunch on the beach is easy. Many travellers stay in Galle or Unawatuna and visit Hikkaduwa for the reef, then return for sunset in the fort.
Where should I stay in Hikkaduwa?
The northern end near the reef is best for snorkelling and close to the busiest restaurants. The southern stretch towards Narigama and Thiranagama is quieter, with wider sand and surf breaks nearby. Book early in February, as the best guesthouses and boutique hotels fill quickly.