Overview
The Hikkaduwa Marine Sanctuary is Sri Lanka’s most visited reef and one of the most famous dive and snorkel destinations in Asia — a protected reef system immediately offshore from Hikkaduwa Beach where green sea turtles have become so habituated to the presence of snorkellers that they feed calmly at arm’s length. The sanctuary’s extension beyond the main Hikkaduwa reef encompasses additional coral formations northward toward Narigama and southward toward Thiranagama, providing a larger reef system of considerable diversity. The turtle encounters here are among the most reliable in Sri Lanka, and the combination of accessible snorkelling depth (1–5 metres), clear water, and virtually guaranteed turtle sightings makes the Hikkaduwa reef one of the most complete marine wildlife experiences available without diving certification.
Highlights
- Sea turtles so habituated they feed at arm’s length from snorkellers
- The most reliable turtle snorkelling in Sri Lanka — virtually guaranteed
- Coral diversity across a broad reef system accessible without certification
- The reef extends from Hikkaduwa northward and southward
- Glass-bottom boat tours for those who prefer to stay dry
- Diving available on the deeper outer reef sections
- One of the most photographed underwater scenes in Sri Lanka
- The combination of beach and reef in one destination
Best Time to Visit
November–April for the clearest water and calmest conditions.
Activities
- Snorkelling with sea turtles
- Scuba diving on the outer reef
- Glass-bottom boat tours
- Turtle photography
Suitable For
All visitors, families, snorkellers, beginner divers, turtle enthusiasts
Nearby Attractions
- Hikkaduwa Beach (adjacent)
- Seenigama island temple (2 km north)
- Dodanduwa (10 min south)
- Induruwa (15 min north)
- Galle Fort (30 min south)
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