01/08/2022
Hiriketiya is one of those rare locations that has found the balance between feeling absorbed in nature while providing a sociable setting to remain connected with others. The ocean can be heard pushing up along the narrow stretch of sand and monkeys are commonplace, jumping between the dense forest, cafes and tropical palms that hug the coastline. This is the perfect place to disconnect from the bustling world without entirely eliminating contact with others.
Here you will discover the perfect setting for people from all walks of life; an environment ideal for families looking for a relaxing time by the water, a great surf scene for surfers in search of fun tropical waves or the perfect retreat for couples wanting that ideal getaway with a mix of beach, quality food and Sri Lankan culture.
In recent years, many digital nomads from all over the world have found themselves at the bay and fallen for its charm. In a short space of time a true sense of community has been created, anchored around a common drive to nurture an environment that encourages self-love and creativity. Establishments like Salt House, Salty Pelican, Jasper House and Dots offers daily Yoga classes in a variety of styles, both in the morning and afternoon, convenient for those who need to adjust routines around times best suited for surfing. Verse Collective is one of several cafes in the area ideal for those need to finish a little work while away or would simply prefer a quality coffee by their side as they tuck into a book. There is also a string of restaurants providing a diverse range of both Sri Lankan food and healthy highlights from the West. Our favourite places to fill up in between sessions of saltwater and sun include Bahia, Salthouse, Bombora Rooftop, Dunis Hoppers, Malu, Mond and the smoked fare at Smoke n Bitters.
Beyond the comfort of these places, a little pocket of paradise awaits. Despite the short stretch of beach, Hiriketiya is a bay that offers a generous amount of variety for surfers of all backgrounds and levels of experience. Breaking from the northern headland is a left-hand point, a perfect spot for intermediate-advanced surfers looking to break away from the crowded waves up the coast. The wave is mirrored by another on the southern end, a slightly less consistent right-hander, but well worth keeping an eye out for on the right tides and swell. What separates the two is a beachbreak, ideal for beginners wishing to practice their skills in user-friendly conditions where regular surf lessons are conducted for those ready to master the basics. All of these breaks are easily viewed from the sand, and it’s never difficult to spot a travelling companion surfing a wave or floating in the line-up from the comfort of your beach towel.
Nearby, Dickwella is a small town that offers general stores and all the conveniences required for your stay such as an ATM, Pharmacy etc. Easily accessed from Hiriketiya by a short 5-minute Tuktuk ride, or better still, you can walk there along Dickwella beach. Everything that Hiriketiya has to offer is a short stroll from each of our properties.
There is also plenty of opportunity outside of Hiriketiya to immerse yourself in the local Sri Lankan culture and some awesome natural treasures nearby; including the Wewurukannala (largest seated Buddha statue in Sri Lanka) Temple, Mulkirigala Rock Temple, the Hummanaya Blowhole (the only blowhole in Sri Lanka), Udawalawe National Park and Yala National Park.
Written by Kye Halford whilst passing through Hiriketiya on his world travels.
