Day Trips

Hikkaduwa is a good base for small adventures. In one day you can visit Galle Fort, take a Madu Ganga boat, learn about masks in Ambalangoda, see whales from Mirissa in season, or enjoy a tea and cinnamon tasting. From Cinnamon Forest Resort most trips are 30 to 120 minutes by road.

Top Day Trips

Madu Ganga River Boat Safari

Glide through mangroves on Madu Ganga, see small islands and birds, then continue to Bentota for a river edge lunch or a short watersport session.

Good for: nature lovers, families, calm boat time

Tip: Wear life jackets and agree the route and price before you start.

Galle Fort and Unawatuna

Walk the old ramparts, lighthouse and pretty lanes at Galle Fort, then swim or relax at Unawatuna Beach.

Good for: photos, cafés, easy shopping, sunset views
Tip: Go morning for cool walks or late afternoon for golden light.

Ambalangoda Masks and Crafts

Visit the mask museum and small workshops to see hand carving and painting. Add a quick stop at a turtle hatchery if you wish.

Good for: culture, art and short learning stops

Tip: Ask before taking photos of artists. Buy a small souvenir only if you love it.

Mirissa Whale Watching

Seasonal early morning boat trips look for blue whales and dolphins off Mirissa.

Good for: wildlife and ocean views

Tip: Boats leave very early. Carry a light snack, water and a warm layer. Check sea conditions first.

Tea and Cinnamon Trail

Visit a small tea garden for tasting and a cinnamon home for a peeling demo. Add a village lunch for a slow local day.

Good for: gentle learning, food lovers

Tip: Keep purchases light unless you know you want more.

River and Lagoon Combo Day

Mix a boat ride, a cinnamon stop, and a short cycle or walk in paddy fields, then end with a simple village lunch.

Good for: relaxed explorers and families

Tip: Morning is best for birds and soft light.

Simple Safety Tips

Plan A: Galle Fort and Unawatuna

Morning walk at Galle Fort, lighthouse photos, café break
Lunch inside the Fort or near the beach
Afternoon swim at Unawatuna
Sunset on the ramparts, easy drive back

Plan B: Madu Ganga and Bentota
Morning boat safari with island stops Village style lunch by the river Short watersport or beach walk at Bentota Return before sunset
Plan C: Crafts and Culture

Ambalangoda mask museum and workshop
Turtle hatchery stop
Late afternoon temple visit near Hikkaduwa
Dinner back in town

Plan D: Tea and Cinnamon

Tea tasting in a small garden
Cinnamon peeling demo and tasting
Village lunch and a short paddy field walk
Quiet rooftop sunset at the resort

Plan E: Mirissa Whales

Early departure to Mirissa
Boat trip and simple brunch after
Short beach rest or café
Return mid afternoon and relax by the pool

What To Pack

Light clothes and a shawl or scarf

Comfortable shoes or sandals

Swimwear and a quick dry towel if you plan a swim

Reusable water bottle

Small cash and a card

Phone charger or power bank

FAQs about Day Trips near Hikkaduwa

Do I need to book in advance
Same day is often possible. Weekends and holidays can be busy. Message early for Mirissa whales and Madu Ganga boats.
Yes. Choose shorter routes and add rest time. Boats and beaches are popular with children.
Half a day is comfortable. A full day works if you enjoy cafés and shopping.
Yes in most towns and cafés. Tell us your needs and we will suggest stops.
Choose a licensed operator, follow crew instructions and check sea conditions.
Yes. Many guests do Galle Fort with Unawatuna, or Madu Ganga with Bentota.