17 Best Things to do in Hiriketiya Beach, Sri Lanka [in 48 Hours]

Wondering how many days are sufficient to explore Hiriketiya? Well, if you have a lot of time, spend atleast a week to enjoy some downtime on weekdays and parties on weekends. However, if you are short on time just 2 days is enough and split it between one chill beach day and 1 party night out.

This is what we did and here’s what all we managed to do in our 2 days.

Things to do in Hiriketiya on a 2 Day Itinerary

With so many things to do on Hiriketiya beach, Sri Lanka, you can be spoilt for choice. From the endless expanse of Dikwella to the stunning sunsets, from the fresh sweet coconut waters to finger-licking food, there is something for everyone in this beach town.

Get Mesmerized by Sunsets on Pehembiya Beach

Pehembiya beach is a part of Dickwella/ Dikwella beach stretch and is a popular spot for having a fresh coconut, sundowner etc whilst gazing at the gorgeous sunset.

Hiriketiya is best known for its stunning sunsets which set the sky on fire and some of the best spots are Pehembiya, Dickwella, Blue Beach Island, Hiriketiya Beach, and a string of oceanfront bars and restaurants.

If you are in Hiriketiya, sunset chasing has to be the number one thing to do.

Chill at Dots Bay House

Looking for an upscale boho spot to grab a drink? Dots Bay House is a must visit in Hiriketiya.

Not only do they have the wackiest Saturday night parties in Hiriketiya but even on non-party days, there is a good vibe all around.

Comfortable couches offer complete relaxation while you sip your cocktails. You can even play a game of pool (no extra charge) or join a yoga class every morning for $10 (Check the schedule beforehand on their Instagram).

Grab a Drink at Smoke & Bitters – Asia’s Top 50 Bars

Ranked #14 in Asia’s top 50 bars, Smoke & Bitters lives up to its fame. Located on Pehembiya in Hiriketiya, this bar is a popular hangout for both locals and tourists.

It’s on the must-visit list for literally everyone visiting Hiriketiya, and we loved its cool vibe and excellent cocktails – not to mention the spectacular sunsets overlooking Pehembiya beach.

You can find cozy bean bags and tables tucked away in corners, but be sure to make reservations beforehand, else you will end up sitting at the bar like us (Which we didn’t mind one bit). However, an hour later there were no seats even at the bar.

We tried some finger food and drinks which were great, but the smiling staff was a definite perk. Even the washrooms had a cozy cabin vibe, and the decor all around was very beach smokehouse style.

Swim, Chill, Walk at Dikwella/ Dickwella Beach

The perfect vast expanse of white sands at Dikwella beach offers opportunities for long walks and mesmerizing sunsets.

When we went for a dip at Dickwella, we were literally the only ones as far as the eye could see. The waves here are also more swimmable than the surfer counterpart of Hiriketiya beach.

We spent half a day frolicking around on the sands and waters whilst gorging on scrumptious local cuisine.

Sip cocktails at La Playa

La Playa is hands down the chic luxe beach resort to visit during your trip to Hiriketiya.

You can even just visit as a guest and enjoy sundowners by the pool/ beach as the restaurant is open to non – guests as well.

Try Local Curry (Traditional Food)

Local Sri Lankan cuisine is absolutely mouth-watering. I tried chicken curry with rice and coconut chapatis which was out of the world.

Surf Surf Surf

Of course, the number one reason for those visiting Hiriketiya is to get a surf lesson, or few. The waves are excellent for beginner surfers and you can join a class even with medium fitness levels. It is all about the technique and joining a good surf school. Most stay for months to learn and practise surfing and Hiriketiya is a mecca for both beginner and pro surfers.

I  would often have my breakfast whilst watching the surfers from my hotel by the beach.

Have Indian Food at Grand Glorious

As a true blue Indian, my devotion to my country’s cuisine is marvelous. Even outside India, I crave Indian cuisine, so I was very happy to find Grand Glorious, which served scrumptious Indian food.

Gape at the Mesmerizing Sunrise at Hiriketiya Beach

Are you looking for the BEST sunrise spot in the whole of Sri Lanka? Well, I can safely say Hiriketiya Beach is your best bet.

I  have been to so many beach destinations in my 20+ years of solo escapades, and never have I seen something so quaint and beautiful that it would bring tears to my eyes.

This sight was so surreal, and only a handful of people were wandering about, taking a dip or planning to surf. Maybe 5 tops.

It was peaceful, quiet, and absolutely out of this world. Don’t believe me? Watch this reel I made –

Luckily, we were also staying in Muthu Sea View, which is right next to the beach, so waking up was not an effort at all. Heck, sometimes after a party night, we would be sleeping at almost sunrise, which made catching the first rays of the sun, easier.

Watch a quiet sunset at Blue Beach Island

Every search result and travel blog about Hiriketiya will have a mention of Blue Beach Island on it. So, of course, I had to see what the fuss was for myself.

At first glance, I wasn’t impressed. The beach was crammed with people, and there was no space to even walk across to the rocks for the sunset point – and there was no sunset visible.

However, a little hike up the rocks and you could spot the sun setting over the horizon and it was so magical. Eventually the sky was on fire and my belief in Hiriketiya sunsets was restored.

Check out the Secret Jungle Party in a Party Bus

Wait, what a party bus? Yep, there is a colorful, blingy, loud party bus that takes you to an undisclosed secret location around an hour out of town.

The whole “undisclosed” secret party notion is such a thrill in itself. Even if you travel solo, fret not, as you will make friends right on the bus – even before you enter the party.

Everyone is pretty wasted right off the bat, making it easy to converse and find your party mates.

The party itself was just ok (compared to others I went to in Ahangama/ Weligama) but the whole experience was surely worth it.

Ride around the Island in a Scootie

Riding a scootie is so much fun. In Hiriketiya, you are literally riding by the ocean; however, in some spots, like when you drive to Blue Beach Island, the roads are uphill, winding, and tricky. Lots of small pebbles make it a little challenging for new riders. If you have any experience with a scootie, you will be fine.

Ensure your home driving license is valid for a two-wheeler and that you have an IDP (International Driving Permit). Check that your permit is still valid as they expire every year. Cops are vigilant on the south coast as it is touristy and they are looking to make money off drunk careless tourists. So be careful and drive smart.

If you dont have a valid license of IDP, just take a 48 cc scootie and you will be fine.

Stay in Muthu Sea View Hiriketiya – For the Best Location

Looking for a hotel with the best views and a central location? You cannot go wrong with our pick which was Muthu hotel in Hiriketya.

Nestled on a cliff overlooking Hiriketiya beach, this is your perfect base for exploring this beach town. You can go for a sunset/ sunrise walk or a dip anytime or just watch the frenzy of surfers all day long.

Ideally located on a peppy street where you can easily rent a bike or walk to nearby beaches, bars, hot spots, poke shops, surf rentals etc, Muthu Sea View hotel is a good mid-range spot for your Hiriketiya base.

Pro Tip – Book here for the lowest rates and include breakfast because their food is mouthwatering. 

Play with the Friendly Beach Dogs & Cats

Beach dogs & cats are literally everywhere on the south coast. In Hiriketiya even more so, which is great for a dog lover like me. They are friendly and would happily follow you around for a stroll without bothering you or begging for food.

Try a Yoga Class

When in Sri Lanka, joining a group yoga session is pretty much the norm, especially on the south coast. Even Hiriketiya has good yoga shalas at places like Salty Pelican, Dots Bay and Salt House. So check them out and try a drop-in class for less than $8.

Take a Dip in one of the Oceanfront Pools

There are so many oceanfront resorts in Hiriketiya and some allow pool access for guests (or atleast if you sit in their bar/ restaurant). I went at end of season so this might not be the case in peak season.

Try Karaoke / Pool

If you are looking for fun activities in Hiriketiya, especially at night, try playing a game of pool at Dots Bay or sing karaoke in one of the bars on the street. You will know where the karaoke nights are happening by asking locals as they keep changing.

Other spots to add to your Hiriketiya itinerary (we did not have enough time for everything) – Rip Robana, Betaz, Kingsleys, Raa, Malkhola, The Ruin, The Hangout & More. 

So this was my compilation of things to do in Hiriketya Beach, Sri Lanka. Did I miss any? Share in comments below.

Jo has been putting pen to paper from an early age when she started her “Dear Diary” and letters to her pen friends across the globe.
This alongside regular visits to Indian jungles in search of the Royal Bengal Tiger, fueled her zest for adventure, nature and wildlife.
Now she is a renowned travel blogger, outreach expert and has worked with over 500 travel brands in the last 15 years.