A place to escape the crowds on Sri Lanka’s south coast, Hiriketiya is a little slice of paradise

Many visitors to Sri Lanka head for Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa, but with its beauty and laid-back bohemian vibe, Hiriketiya is a beacon of tranquillity

It’s heaven for surfers, and has sandy trails through swaying palms that lead to near- deserted beaches

Reading Time:3 minutes

An aerial view of Hiriketiya bay in Sri Lanka’s south coast. It’s a tranquil location that’s loved by surfers. Photo: David Burden

Published: 3:00pm, 7 Nov 2019Updated: 9:02pm, 7 Nov 2019

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has blossomed in recent years, luring visitors to its palm-fringed shores, lapped by the azure Indian Ocean. However, with 1,600km of coastline it can be tricky for first-timers to know where to go.

Weligama, Arugum Bay on the east coast, or Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa around the historic city of Galle have been on the tourist map for some time, but there are plenty of other under-the-radar places to explore, tucked quietly between the ocean and Sri Lanka’s main A2 coastal road.

Hiriketiya in Sri Lanka’s southern province is one of those places. Around four hours drive from Colombo, this surfy bohemian bolt-hole is comparable to sleepy Nusa Lembongan in Bali or one of the quieter beaches in Goa, India.

A growing number of local and expat business owners are working hard to up the cool factor in this little slice of paradise. Think shabby-chic coffee joints, cosy guest houses, cool handicrafts, and a scattering of excellent restaurants that serve up everything from the millennial morning staple of smashed avocado on toast, to fresh, locally caught seafood.

The gentle waves in Hiriketiya bay are ideal for longboard surfers. Photo: David Burden

Digital nomads will also find a home in the numerous co-working spaces and villas that have sprang up metres from the shore – all polished concrete, white walls, and comfy furnishings for the ultimate castaway office.