Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Sri Lanka ( Marine Reserve )

Hikkaduwa coral reef is one the most beautiful coral reefs found in Sri Lanka and the first coral reef to be declared a marine national park. It is one of the reefs that is easily accessible as well because it is close to Colombo and close to the Galle road, which is the main road that goes from Colombo to Galle. Coral Reefs plays and important role in protecting the beach and because of the coral reef the Hikkaduwa area was one of the least affected areas when tsunami waves hit Sri Lanka. Because Hikkaduwa is close to Colombo and also because the reefs are closer to the roads, it is frequently visited by tourists and locals who love nature.
One of the easiest ways to explore the coral reef is by going on a glass bottom boat. This is the preferred option of many who visit here because you can clearly see the corals and you don't have to prepare for anything and you don't have to get wet as well. Boat owners are experience enough to show you the best places and if you are lucky you can even spot giant sea turtles residing in the area.

A much better way to explore the reefs is by snorkeling. However if you are not a good swimmer you are limited to small and shallow area. If you go diving with some of the expert local divers then you can explore the coral reef to your hearts content. If you are a nature lover and marine life in particular then this is the best way to go about it.
Some of the reef was destroyed because of the boxing day tsunami that hit Sri Lanka. But the biggest threat to the reef is from humans who collect corals and capture various fish types to be sold in the commercial market. You can help to stop this buy refusing to buy coral from the nearby stores. Hikkaduwa is one of two marine reserves in Sri Lanka and one that is constantly under threat as well. It is definitely a must visit place if you are a nature lover. If you are interested in more in depth details of the marine park you can visit the wiki page. Below video of diving among corals gives you a glimpse of what you can expect to see.

Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka

Hikkaduwa beach is famous for its beautiful coral gardens and beach parties. It is one of the top locations for beach parties and you will find some sort of beach party almost every month of the year. Although there are secluded beaches owned by the hotels for you to relax, this isn't the ideal beach to spend a relaxing holiday. Because of the beautiful coral reef Hikkaduwa attracts lots of locals as well. This beach is frequented by mostly young tourists, and a popular destination for group packages as well. There are few top class hotels near the area. Coastal ares of Sri Lanka from Colombo to past Matara is full of luxurious beach hotels so it want be hard to find a beach hotel near Hikkaduwa.
The main attraction of the Hikkaduwa beach is the beautiful coral reef in the area. When the Tsunami hit Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa was one of the least affected areas because of the protection it got from the reef. Although the reef was damaged from the Tsunami most of it is intact and you can view them by going on glass bottom boats. If you want to experience it close hand then you can go diving in the reef as well, although this will cost you a considerable extra amount. Hikkaduwa is also famous for delicious sea food and you can find many road side stalls and cards selling delicious sea food items. This is also a beach where you can go surfing, although it is not possible every time of the year.