I didn’t know much about Hiriketiya before arriving—just that people came here to surf, sip coconuts, and practice yoga by the sea. I came to teach yoga, expecting simplicity and sunshine.
What I didn’t expect was to fall completely in love.
Hiriketiya is one of those rare places that pulls you in without trying. People come for a day or two and end up staying for weeks—sometimes months.
There’s a magnetic quality to it, a kind of laid-back magic that makes you slow down, tune in, and breathe a little deeper.
The days here are shaped by nature’s rhythm—surfing at sunrise, smoothie bowls under the palms, spontaneous live music after dark. But underneath the surface of this sleepy little surf town is a vibrant wellness scene, a creative community, and the kind of quiet presence that I am all about.
This guide is for the ones who crave something more than just another beach destination. It’s for the mindful travelers, the barefoot wanderers, the ones reclaiming rest, joy, and connection. Whether you’re here to ride waves or ride the wave of your own transformation, Hiri has something for you.
Inside this Guide:
✔ Where to stay—from budget-friendly hostels to boutique jungle hideaways
✔ My favorite wellness spots (think yoga studios, massage, and contrast therapy)
✔ The best cafés and local eats (including where the locals actually go)
✔ What to explore beyond the bay—markets, temples, and magic in the mundane
Ready to discover the kind of place that reminds you how good it feels to slow down?
Let’s dive into Hiriketiya
A few practical things to keep in mind before you land in this little slice of paradise:
Travel Insurance = Non-Negotiable
Especially if you plan on surfing or riding a scooter (which, let’s be honest, most people do). I saw more than one person end up in the hospital during my time here, surf wipeouts and scooter crashes are more common than you’d think. I’ve been using EKTA Travel Insurance for as long as I can remember. It’s affordable, easy to book, and covers what I actually need.
Get Your E-SIM Sorted Before Arrival
The last thing you want is to land with no signal and no way to get a tuk-tuk. I always make sure my eSIM is ready before I arrive. I rotate between Yesim, Airalo, and Drimsim, depending on who offers the best rates and coverage in the country I’m in. It’s quick, reliable, and saves the airport SIM card hassle.
Tip: Download offline Google Maps and save your guesthouse location before arriving—WiFi isn’t guaranteed everywhere.
Where to Stay
One of the best parts about Hiriketiya is that it’s small enough to walk just about anywhere. Whether you’re tucked into the jungle or right near the beach, you’re never more than a few minutes from a smoothie bowl or a surfboard rental.
That said, places do book up quickly during high season, especially the good ones. So if you’re coming between December and March, try to reserve early.
My experience: Cinnamon House
I stayed at a little family homestay called Cinnamon House, tucked just off the main road.
It’s a humble spot, no air conditioning, and not fancy in the slightest, but it felt like home in that quiet, local kind of way.
I paid less than $10 a night, and the owners were so kind. I’d wake up to roosters and fall asleep to the sound of crickets. Sometimes cows would wander into the garden, and when the rose apples were ripe, I could eat them right from the tree.
If you’re the type of traveler who values authenticity over aesthetics, this kind of stay is a gem.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Dots Bay House – Surf hostel meets social hub. Dorms and privates available, right by the beach.
The Yard Hiriketiya – Set back from the main road with greenery all around. Quiet and well-priced.
Mid-Range Boutique Hotels
Salt House – One of the most popular spots in town. Yoga, brunch, and beautifully designed rooms.
House on the Bend – A lush hideaway with thoughtful touches and peaceful surroundings.
Taboo Hiriketiya – Rooftop yoga, a sleek design-forward vibe, and a built-in social scene. Great if you want connection and quiet.
Jasper House – A quiet boutique stay nestled in the trees, with a focus on wellness, beautiful architecture, and a tranquil vibe. Ideal if you want to unplug.
Wilson’s Place – Cozy, clean, and run by a local family. Feels like home with a little extra charm. A great value stay tucked slightly away from the buzz.
Luxe & Boutique
La Playa Beach Club – For those who want ocean views, chic interiors, and to be fully in their “soft life” era.
Mond – Modern, design-forward, and one of the most aesthetic stays in Hiri. Boutique rooms, great cafe with the strongest matcha in town, and walking distance to the beach.
Surf Camps Worth Checking Out
The Salty Pelican Yoga & Surf Retreat – Offers packages with surf, yoga, meditation, and meals.
Kima Surf – Eco-meets-comfort with daily lessons and group dinners included.
Wellness & Yoga in Hiriketiya
Hiriketiya isn’t just for surfers—it’s quietly become a haven for wellness, too. Between yoga studios tucked into the trees, massage spots run by local aunties, and ice baths that shock you back into presence, there’s a lot here to support your nervous system and your spirit.
Yoga Studios
There’s yoga happening daily in Hiri—you just have to know where to look. Most classes are drop-in friendly and range from slow flow to energizing vinyasa.
Salt House – A beautifully designed shala, consistent schedule, and post-class brunch that hits the spot.
Jasper House – My favorite shala in Hiri, and I am not being biased because it’s one of the places where I taught. Palms and ocean views on both sides surround it. It’s quieter and more serene than the other shalas. It’s a great space to go inward.
Taboo Rooftop – Yoga with arguably the best view of Hiri’s Bay. Sometimes more active, sometimes more experimental. Always fun. Also offers a yoga + brunch combo.
Arise – Gentle, grounding, and held with care. Great for yin, meditation, or sound healing. This shala is in the jungle so be sure to bring bug spray.
Dots Bay House – Beautiful Shala, where they host classes and community events.
Massage & Bodywork
After a few days of surf or just long walks in the heat, a massage can feel like medicine. These two are local favorites:
Massage Shed – Simple and powerful. No frills, just great traditional bodywork.
Tonic Day Spa – A little more polished (for a surf town), perfect for a deep reset. Think full-body oil massages in a calming space.
Ice Baths & Sauna
Cold plunges in the tropics? Yes—and they’re so worth it. These spots are perfect for a morning wake-up or an end-of-day nervous system reset.
Maha Sauna + Ice Bath – Offers the full cycle: sauna, plunge, repeat. Popular with both locals and travelers.
Ice Hiriketiya – Just the ice bath here, but super clean and well-run. Great post-surf or yoga ritual.
Where to Eat & Drink in Hiriketiya
If you’re someone who plans your day around your meals (same), Hiri is going to make you very happy. From local curry joints where the food is cooked with heart, to design-forward cafés serving oat milk lattes and fresh-baked sourdough, the food scene here punches way above its weight for a town this size.
Here are my personal favorite spots—some you’ll find on Google Maps, others you’ll just feel when you walk by and catch the right smell.
Western & Global Favorites
These are the spots to hit when you’re craving something international, elevated, or just really well done:
Mond – Great coffee, clean aesthetics, and a calm, minimal vibe. It’s where you go when you want a reset meal and a little design inspiration.
La Luna – Think Italian-Sri Lankan fusion with candlelight and good wine. Great for a date night or girls’ dinner.
La Playa – Upscale beach club vibes. Order a cocktail and watch the light change over the bay.
Taboo – Rooftop drinks, beautiful views, and a laidback-but-cool dinner spot. Also hosts yoga and live music.
Raa – Tucked behind the main road, this is a great place to hang out at night with small plates and a curated cocktail list.
Smoke & Bitters – Named one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars. The food and drinks live up to the hype, don’t miss this spot, and definitely book in advance.
The Ruin – A twist on Mexican food set in a jungle-lounge vibe. Think tacos, mezcal, and moody lighting. Great spot to kick off the night with friends or enjoy a slow dinner under the palms.
Sri Lankan & Local Favorites
These are the places that will make you fall in love with Sri Lankan cuisine. They’re unfussy, full of flavor, and (in most cases) shockingly affordable.
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Sun + Moon Juice Bar – Fresh juices, smoothie bowls, and a solid breakfast for under $5.
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Pryanca – A classic. Fast, cheap, and delicious. Great kottu, rice & curry, and super friendly owners.
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The place next to Pryanca with all the Coca-Cola signs – This one doesn’t have a name on Google, but ask around and you’ll find it. Their curries are insanely good, like, go-back-twice good. It’s no frills, filled with locals and spicy.
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Pranaya Café – Sweet little café inside the guesthouse. It’s home to the best thalis in town. Run by a super lovely couple who make you feel right at home. Delicious, nourishing, and made with care.
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Lemongrass – Local favorite with hearty portions and consistently good food.
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Garlic – Get veggie curry buffet. Their dhal is comfort food at its finest.
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Rosie’s – My top pick. It’s simple, humble, and full of soul. The kind of place where you feel like family the second you sit down. It’s “open table” style, so you sit at any of the tables and they’ll just keep bringing new dishes for you to try.
Pro tip: If you want to really connect with local flavors, order the rice & curry set—and don’t skip the pol sambol.
What to See & Do in Hiriketiya
Surf at Hiriketiya Beach
This bay is what put Hiri on the map for many travelers—and for good reason. The waves are consistent, the water’s warm, and you’ll find surfboard rentals right on the beach for as little as 1000LKR (about $3 USD).
Beginner? Stick to the sandy western side.
Intermediate? Paddle toward the middle of the bay.
Experienced? Head to the eastern point where the wave peels around the rocks.
It does get busy—especially in the mornings and high season—so bring patience, eye contact, and good surf etiquette.
Take a Yoga or Breathwork Class
Mentioned earlier, but truly worth repeating: yoga in Hiri is abundant, accessible, and incredibly grounding. Whether you want to sweat, stretch, or just sit in stillness, there’s a class happening every day somewhere. Combine it with a cold plunge or massage for a full reset.
Explore Blue Island
Just South of Hiri, there’s the Blue Island is a fun little micro-adventure. You can walk out during low tide or paddle out if you’re feeling active.
It’s a peaceful escape from the buzz of the beach with beautiful views looking back at the shore.
Visit the Temple in Dikwella
Just a short tuk-tuk ride from Hiri, this temple is home to a massive Buddha statue you can actually climb—with winding stairways that give you a beautiful panoramic view from the top. It’s a peaceful place to pause, reflect, or just take in the energy of something much bigger than yourself.
Bring a small offering (flowers or incense are ideal), dress modestly, and prepare for a few rounds of donation requests. It’s common for temple caretakers to ask for contributions multiple times—just stay grounded and give what feels right.
Wander the Dikwella Market
If you love local color, don’t miss the weekly Dikwella Market. You’ll find everything from fresh jackfruit and coconuts to handmade sarongs and bangles. It’s chaotic, lively, and 100% real life.
Relax at Dikwella Beach
Need a break from the surf scene? Dikwella Beach is wide, swimmable, and way less crowded than Hiri. Grab a lounger at a beachside café, order grilled fish and a lime soda, and just be for a while.
Catch Live Music
After dark, Hiri starts humming. Some of my favorite memories here came from spontaneous nights out—dancing barefoot to live music under the stars or catching an open mic set with strangers-turned-friends.
Keep an eye (and ear) out for:
Dots Bay House – Open Mic Nights (usually Saturdays)
Taboo Rooftop – Live sets and community events
The Ruin / Raa / La Luna – Rotating performances and DJs depending on the week
🌙 Pro tip: Ask around or look for hand-drawn posters around town. Most of the best events are spread by word of mouth.
Day Trips & Excursions from Hiri
If you’re making Hiriketiya your home base for awhile (highly recommend), there’s no shortage of adventures just a tuk-tuk, train ride, or car trip away.
Whether you’re craving culture, surf exploration, or a wild safari experience, Hiri makes a great jumping-off point.
Here are some of my favorite day trips and excursions from town:
Visit Galle
Roughly 2 hours west, Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with charming colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and trendy cafés. Spend the day wandering the fort, sipping iced coffee, and shopping local boutiques.
Explore the “Gamas”: Weligama, Ahangama & Midigama
If you’re on a surf mission, this trio of laid-back towns delivers.
Weligama – Longboard-friendly waves and a chill beach scene.
Ahangama – Home to great right-hand breaks and hip cafés.
Midigama – Less crowded, more raw, and great for intermediate surfers.
Head East to Tangalle
More off-the-beaten-path than the west coast towns, Tangalle offers wide, windswept beaches and a slower pace. Ideal for a swim, a seafood lunch, and some quiet time.
Safari at Yala National Park
Want to see elephants, leopards, and wild peacocks? Yala is your go-to for a classic Sri Lankan safari. Best to leave early and go with a reputable tour provider for the full experience.
Visit Udawalawe National Park
Less touristy than Yala but just as magical—especially for spotting elephants in their natural habitat. You can usually squeeze this into a half-day trip if timed right. Just be sure to get a good tour guide, it makes all the difference here.
Take a Day Trip to Sigiriya (if you’re ambitious)
While it’s a bit of a journey (around 4–5 hours one way), Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sites. If you’re short on time and can’t make a full loop of the island, hiring a driver or guide for the day is doable—and worth it for the views and ancient energy.
Travel tip: For most of these trips, you can hire a tuk-tuk or private driver for the day, or look into shared transfers via 12go or Bookaway. Just ask your guesthouse—they’ll almost always “know a guy.”
Getting to Hiriketiya
Hiriketiya may feel like a secret tucked away on the southern coast, but it’s actually pretty easy to reach once you know how to get here. Whether you’re coming from Colombo, Ella, or another beach town, here’s how to make it to Hiri and navigate once you arrive.
From Colombo
You’ve got a few options:
Train: Take the coastal train from Colombo Fort Station to Wewrukannala Station (about 4 hours). From there, it’s a short 10-minute tuk-tuk ride to Hiri.
Bus: Direct express buses from Colombo to Matara run often and take ~3 hours. From Matara, you’ll need to switch to a local bus or tuk-tuk (more on that below).
From Ella
Catch the #31 bus from Wellawaya Bus Stop in Ella—it passes through multiple times a day, starting early morning. It’s about a 5–6 hour ride to Matara, then transfer to Hiriketiya by local bus or tuk-tuk. Total cost? Around $2 USD.
From Other South Coast Towns (Galle, Weligama, Ahangama, Midigama, Mirissa)
Hop on any bus heading to Matara (like the 350), then transfer from Matara to Dickwella or Hiriketiya. Super straightforward, and locals are usually happy to help if you ask.
From Matara to Hiriketiya
Once in Matara, you have a couple of options:
Local Bus to Dickwella or Dodampahala Junction (closest drop-off to Hiriketiya)—should cost under 200 LKR (~$0.60 USD).
Tuk-Tuk or Taxi for a more direct ride. Expect to pay 2000 LKR ($6 USD) for a tuk-tuk, or up to 5500 LKR (~$17 USD) for a private car.
🚨 Heads up: The buses marked 32-1 or 32-2 supposedly go through Hiri, but I never had much luck catching one. You’re usually better off going to Dickwella and walking or tuk-tuk’ing the last few minutes.
Private or Shared Transfers
Sites like 12go, Bookaway, and Viator make it easy to book a shuttle, taxi, or train with vetted local operators. Great if you want a smoother experience or are traveling with surfboards or luggage.
Getting Around Hiriketiya
Hiri is entirely walkable, which is part of what makes it so special. That said, if you’re headed out of town for a beach day or day trip, here are your options:
Tuk-Tuks – Easily hailed on the street or via PickMe or Uber apps.
Scooter Rental – If you’re comfortable with chaotic driving conditions, this gives you the most freedom. Just make sure you’ve got travel insurance that covers it.
TuktukRental.com – A great social enterprise option if you want to drive your own tuk-tuk (yes, you read that right). Use code NOMAPS for a small discount.
🌴 Travel tip: Always agree on the tuk-tuk price before the ride unless you’re using a meter or app. And don’t be afraid to negotiate kindly—it’s part of the dance.
Final Reflections
Hiriketiya might look like just another surf town on the map—but it’s so much more than that. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how good it feels to live slow, eat well, move your body, and follow your curiosity.
It invites you into rhythm. Into rest. Into presence.
Whether you’re coming to surf, teach, heal, write, dance barefoot at open mic night, or just figure out what’s next—you’ll find space here. And maybe that’s what makes Hiri so magnetic: the space to simply be. To let go of who you thought you needed to be and remember who you actually are.
I hope this guide helps you land softly and experience the full magic of this little bay. May your time here be nourishing, expansive, and exactly what you didn’t know you needed.
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