Dickwella

Dickwella, also spelled Dikwella, is a fishing town on the south coast about 22 km east of Matara. Its long bay is good for swimming, the small horseshoe cove of Hiriketiya next door has become a popular surf spot, and nearby are one of the country's largest Buddha statues and a natural blowhole.

Things to see

Wewurukannala Viharaya

This temple, a short drive inland, has a seated Buddha statue of about 50 metres, often described as the tallest seated Buddha in Sri Lanka, completed in the 20th century. A gallery of painted figures shows punishments in Buddhist hell, and an older shrine has murals.

Hummanaya blowhole

At Hummanaya, near Kudawella, waves force water through a rock cleft, sending spray high into the air. It is most impressive when the sea is rough, roughly June to August.

Weherahena temple

The Weherahena temple, closer to Matara, has a large Buddha statue and a tunnel-like shrine lined with paintings.

Beaches and water

Dikwella Beach is sheltered and suits swimming. Surfing in Hiriketiya is good for beginners and intermediates, with board hire and lessons. Snorkelling and diving trips run in calm months.

Getting there

Dickwella is on the Matara to Tangalle road, about 30 minutes from Matara and around three hours from Colombo via the Southern Expressway. Buses run along the coast road.

When to go

The best weather is from about November to April, when the sea is calm. From about May to September the south-west monsoon brings rain and rougher seas, though Hiriketiya can still be surfed.

Beach safety and tips

Sea conditions on this coast change with the monsoon. Red flags, strong currents and rip tides are common from about May to September, and lifeguards are few, so swim only where locals or hotel staff say it is safe. Cover up when visiting temples and villages, removing shoes and hats at shrines. Tuk tuks are the easiest way to get around locally; agree the fare first or use a ride app where available. Carry some cash, as small shops and guesthouses may not take cards.

Hotels in Dickwella

For accommodation, see hotels in Dickwella, with options for different budgets.

Further along the coast

Mulkirigala, inland from Tangalle, is a rock temple with cave shrines and murals reached by steps up a steep outcrop. Tangalle, about 20 minutes east, has wide beaches, and Matara to the west has a Dutch star fort and the Dondra lighthouse, at the southern tip of Sri Lanka.

Where to stay

Resorts, boutique hotels and guesthouses are spread around Dickwella and Hiriketiya. See things to do in Dickwella.