Is Hiriketiya Becoming ‘Asia’s Go To Beach? – Lets Find Out!

Hiriketiya – “This tiny surf town in Asia feels like Bali without the crowds,” writes travel writer Katie Lockhart.

In an in-depth article for Travel + Leisure, the global travel magazine, Lockhart describes the under-the-radar beach in southern Sri Lanka as a place with epic surfing, buzzing beach bars, and gorgeous sunsets.

Her article highlights key areas for travelers, including Where to Eat & Drink, where to Shop, and What to Do in Hiriketiya.

Hiriketiya is fast emerging as a popular beach destination, a transformation that began only a few years ago.

“The moment you drop your bags in your room, I bet you won’t want to touch them for at least a week. Bikinis, surfboards, palm trees, and Lion Beer—what more can you ask for?” says an international travel operator (Mokum Surf Club) specializing in surf tourism.

Previously, beaches like Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa on Sri Lanka’s southern coast drew most of the attention.

While those beaches still remain popular, the once little-known Hiriketiya Beach, located near Dickwella in the Matara District, has now taken the spotlight.

This Horse Shoe type beach can be reached within a few hours from Colombo’s main airport.

“European tourists are visiting this beach in large numbers and enjoying everything it has to offer. They stay for days or even weeks,” says Ralston Perera, a small-scale hotelier in the area.

Surfing, swings, music, beer, pool sessions, and yoga are among the many activities available around the beach.

There are also several attractions reachable within an hour or two from Hiriketiya, including the Galle Fort, the Maritime Museum, the Galle Fort and turtle watch places etc.

Luke and Roxy, the travelers behind TheCoastalCampaign.com, have listed several nearby cafés where tourists can eat well on a budget: (Prices adjusted to the current forex rates)

Garlic Café – Superb rice and curry buffet. The pumpkin curry is especially recommended. 450 LKR (1.50 USD) for the vegetarian buffet.

Priyanka Restaurant – Lunch with the locals. The vegetarian rice and curry buffet is just 150 LKR (0.50 USD), one of the cheapest in Sri Lanka, and very tasty.

Jayantha Hotel – Another cheap and delicious buffet, popular with locals. 250 LKR (0.85 USD) for the vegetarian buffet.

Malu – Offers a change of pace with poke bowls. Average cost per bowl: 1,100 LKR (3.50 USD).

Verse Collective – A great spot for a light snack. The cheese toastie is a favourite at 500 LKR (1.86 USD). Full meals are around 1,100 LKR (3.50 USD).

From luxury dining to food stalls selling a full meal for just 2 USD, Hiriketiya truly has something for every type of traveler – and the best thing is its ‘Beach.’