Hikkaduwa enjoys a moderately warm but rather humid climate, with temperatures hovering around 30°C throughout the year. The presence of ocean breeze helps to alleviate the heat, creating a pleasant and mild climate.
The rainy season in Hikkaduwa typically spans from May to October. However, it's important to note that it doesn't rain continuously during this period, and visitors can still have a successful vacation with plenty of opportunities for sunbathing. This time is particularly favored by surfers because the rainy season brings intensified waves to the shores of the resort, providing an exhilarating surfing experience. This phenomenon is one of the reasons why Hikkaduwa is highly popular among surfers.
Hikkaduwa's combination of transparent waves in the Indian Ocean, warm weather, and the absence of oppressive heat makes it an attractive destination for tourists seeking an appealing climate.
Vegetation and Wildlife
Hikkaduwa's vegetation is rich and diverse, typical of a tropical climate. This region boasts approximately 3000 species of plants, with at least a quarter of them being flowering plants. Lush evergreen shrubs, ferns, and colorful orchids flourish in Sri Lanka's forests, and there are at least 750 species of medicinal herbs found in protected areas.
The animal life in Hikkaduwa is equally vibrant. There are 450 species of birds, with just over half of them being permanent residents. Many migratory birds make their way here from distant places, including Scandinavia. Some species in Hikkaduwa are unique to the region. Additionally, there are 86 species of mammals, which include wild boars, jackals, deer, buffalo, bears, foxes, and even elephants.
In Hikkaduwa, the larger animals have been largely preserved in nature reserves, and the threat of extinction has diminished. These reserves are home to two species of crocodiles, the crested and marsh crocodiles, as well as the land star tortoise. Among the more than 80 species of snakes found here, five species are venomous. The island boasts several renowned reserves and national parks, including Mineria, Sinharaja, Bundala, Vilpatu, Yala, Wasgamuwa, and Udawalawe.
One of Hikkaduwa's unique attractions is its sea turtles. The area is home to a turtle rehabilitation center that takes care of injured turtles, as well as a turtle farm. Tourists have the opportunity to interact with these fascinating creatures by holding them in their hands and feeding them with kelp. For an even more unforgettable experience, visitors can enjoy co-bathing with the extra large turtles, which has become a popular and exciting attraction in Hikkaduwa.
