Hiriketiya: Best Things to Do
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By Purna
- Publshed On
Intro
Hiriketiya is located on the south coast of Sri Lanka, about 200km from the Sri Lankan Capital Colombo and about 50km to the southeast of another surfing destination Weligama.
Let’s explore the top 10 things to do in Hiriketiya Surf Bay and the surroundings that every visitor should try out during their visit to Hiriketiya.
Hiriketiya, a small coastal village in southern Sri Lanka renowned as one of the best beaches in the country, has been gaining popularity among surfers and beachgoers over the past decade or so becoming a rising international beach resort and a surf spot along with the Island’s other popular surf spots.
Picturesque horseshoe-shaped Hiriketiya Bay’s crescent-shaped beach is surrounded by lush greenery and stunning rock formations, providing a picturesque backdrop for surfing and relaxation. Hiriketiya’s waves are ideal for beginners, with a gentle and consistent break, making it a perfect spot for those looking to learn to surf.
The village has a laid-back and bohemian vibe, with several surf camps, yoga studios, and beachside cafes offering a range of activities and amenities. Visitors can rent surfboards, take surfing lessons, practice yoga, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Hiriketiya’s secluded location also provides a sense of tranquillity and escape from the hustle and bustle of Sri Lanka’s more touristy areas and industrial towns.
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Bit Of History
Surfing has been a part of the culture in Sri Lanka for over five decades, with the first surfers visiting the country in the 1960s.
The first surfers in Sri Lanka were Australian and American expats who discovered the waves in Arugam Bay on the east coast of the island. As surfing gained popularity, more surf spots were discovered, including Hiriketiya.
Hiriketiya’s waves were first surfed in the early 2000s but became a renowned surf spot around 2010. Since then, it has become a popular destination for surfers from all over the world.
In the early days, there were only a few surfers in Hiriketiya, and the waves were relatively unknown. However, as more surfers discovered the waves, word began to spread, and Hiriketiya’s popularity grew. Today, Hiriketiya is known for its consistent waves, warm water, and beautiful scenery.
Surfing in Hiriketiya has not only brought tourists to the area but has also had a positive impact on the local community. Many locals have started businesses catering to surfers, including surf schools, surf shops, and surf camps. This has provided job opportunities boosted the local economy and let locals live their lives.
Best Time to Surf in Hiriketiya
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Hiriketiya Beach is a popular destination for surfers due to its consistent waves throughout the year. However, the best time to surf in Hiriketiya is from November to April during the dry season. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, and the humidity is generally lower.
The sea is usually calm, making it the perfect time to surf, snorkel, and swim. The temperature during the dry season ranges from 25-30°C, with water temperatures averaging around 27°C.
During the monsoon season, which runs from May to October, the weather can be unpredictable, with heavy rainfall and strong winds. This can make it difficult to surf, and the waves can be inconsistent. The sea can also be rough and dangerous, making it unsuitable for beginners.
Surfing Competitions and Events
Other than the Island’s prominent surf spot Arugam Bay, Hiriketiya Beach has become a popular destination for surfing competitions and events.
The most significant event held in Hiriketiya is the Hiriketiya Surf Pro, which takes place in March. The competition attracts surfers worldwide, and it is an excellent opportunity to watch some of the best surfers in action.
Apart from the Hiriketiya Surf Pro, several other surfing events take place throughout the year. These events are usually organized by local surf schools and clubs and are an excellent opportunity for beginners to take surf lessons or learn from experienced surfers.
These instructor-led surf lessons typically cost about 15 dollars per lesson whereas the cost of renting surfboards starts at 3-5 dollars per hour.
In conclusion, the best time to surf in Hiriketiya is during the dry season from November to April. The weather is dry and sunny during this time, and the sea is usually calm, making it perfect for surfing.
However, visitors should be aware of the monsoon season from May to October, which can make surfing difficult and dangerous.
Top 10 things to do in Hiriketiya
1. Beach Time: Cheap fun in the sun
The influx of tourist arrivals happens in Hiriketiya every year for the sake of surfing practices, especially during its high season. Surf breaks on this beach are usually good for novice and experienced surfers.
Apart from surfing visitors may swim, soak in the sun or even relax on this picturesque beach that has lots of cafes and restaurants to entertain its visitors.
2. Surfing lessons and surfboard rentals
Surf schools by the Hiriketiya Bay offer both absolute beginners and beginner-level surfers to learn new skills and techniques step by step to be an intermediate-level surfer. Friendly surf instructors are ready to offer surf lessons at a reasonable price range.
Typically these 1-2 hour coaching sessions start at 15-20 $ whereas surfboard rental prices start at 3-5 $ per hour. It is also possible to rent other equipment such as wetsuits.
3. Yoga and Wellness Experience
Around Hiriketiya is another wonderful place to find Yoga retreats. Those who are interested can combine your package/holiday with surf and meditation to make it a fulfilling one. In BookSurfCamps, It is very easy to find one for those with different budgets and experience levels.
4. Visit nearby 'Blue Beach'
Blue Beach or “Nilwella” is located about 2km distance from the main Hiriketiya Bay area inland. This natural beach can be an ideal place for beachside camping.
Tip: Bring necessities with you as there are no more options for cutleries here.
5. Day trips to surrounding Beaches
Hiriketiya is located in the heart of the southern provinces and is home to pristine warm beaches. So, you can come across beautiful stretches of palm-fringed tropical beaches in either direction you move to.
Tangalla Beach is located about 20km from from Hiriketiya to the northeast. Tangalla Beach can be considered the southmost beach in Sri Lanka which is also not that touristy and hence laid-back compared to its nearby Mirissa and Weligama Beaches.
Head northwest from Hiri to find Mirissa and Weligama beaches. The distance between these beaches is only about 8km.
Both Mirissa and Weligama beaches can be touristy, especially during its high tourist season from December to March. Both these beaches have played an important role in Sri Lankan tourism for a few decades.
These breathtaking southern beaches receive an Irresistible Influx of tourist arrivals throughout the year letting them enjoy the sunkissed tropical beaches and try out a bunch of activities such as surfing, snorkelling and diving.
6. Explore nearby Surspots
7. Try Local Cousine
Sri Lanka offers its visitors mouthwatering culinary experiences. Sri Lankan recipes are well known for their Delicacy and aromatic Spiciness. Check out some of the local cuisine that anyone should try during their vacation to Sri Lanka.
8. Relax and Unwind
Here in Kiriketiya, you have a better chance to relax by the tropical beach swells and a bit of music.
There are plenty of wellness and yoga retreats and spas on either side of the village that offer natural and Sri Lanka’s traditional ancient medicine “Ayurveda” to unwind your holiday.
Do not forget to heal yourself by having Sri Lanka’s indigenous healthy drink “King Coconuts”.
Reaching There
Transportation
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