Hikkaduwa Beach is the town's main stage, a long strip of sand backed by guesthouses, restaurants, surf schools, and bars. It is not a secret or especially quiet, but it has the energy many travellers come to Sri Lanka's southwest coast for.
The beach changes by season. In the dry months it is good for swimming, surf lessons, and sunset drinks; in rougher weather, treat the sea with more caution and ask locally before going in.