What was originally referred to as Hikkaduwa Coral Gardens is now a national park, Sri Lanka’s first marine protected area and one of two marine national parks. The Hikkaduwa reef is a fringing reef in shallow water with an overall depth of about five meters. It covers an approximate area of 101 ha and extends 4 km out to sea from the narrow coastline, the size of which depends on weather conditions. The dominant species of coral here is Foliaceous Montipora, the thin plate like corals that usually form massive colonies. There are several encrusting and branching varieties as well. Large colonies of Faviidae or spherical brain coral and Poritidae or stony coral are found close to the shore. Stag horn, elk horn, cabbage and star corals are also found in abundance in the area. Species of corals belonging to 31 families and 170 varieties of reef fish of 76 families, sea grass and algae and large populations of crustaceans illustrate the high biodiversity of the area. Among the endangered species that visit the reef are Black-tip Reef Sharks, Hawksbill, Green and Olive Ridley Turtles.
Diving, snorkelling and viewing life beneath the water from glass bottom boats are popular ways to enjoy the reef. As the reef is close to the shore and the water is not deep it is easy to swim out to it. Black Coral Point and Coral Garden Cave are popular diving points on the reef that offer some of the best views of corals and fish as well as interesting underwater landscapes. Underwater visibility is at its best between the months of November to April and therefore it is the best time to enjoy the coral garden.
The Hikkaduwa coral reef has undergone several catastrophic events that have adversely affected this once magnificent spectacle. A hot spell in 1998 caused coral bleaching that destroyed much of the section. The 2004 tsunami caused further damage. Pollution, concrete structures and heavy chains used to anchor mechanised fishing boats and collection of ornamental fish continue to cause irreparable damage to the area. Proper reef management is an urgent need because of these daily threats to the area.
Set amidst a coconut grove facing a wide sandy beach and a sea with gentle rollers, Mermaid Hotel & Club in the southern coastal town of Kalutara provide the quintessential setting for a great getaway. As an early Sri Lanka beach hotel, guests are offered services and hospitality skills honed over many years. As a popular Sri Lanka wedding hotel it offers an idyllic setting and well thought out wedding packages to suit almost everyone’s romantic ideal of weddings in the tropics.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
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