- A hidden gem awakens
As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we found ourselves on the tranquil shores of Hiriketiya in the off-season. Nestled in the embrace of Sri Lanka’s Southern coast, this hidden gem unveiled its enchanting beauty to those who ventured to explore its secrets.
Gone were the bustling crowds of tourists, replaced by a sense of seclusion and tranquillity. The rhythmic crash of waves against the golden sand became our companion, serenading us with a symphony of nature’s music. The air was thick with the scent of salt and tropical blossoms, mingling together to create an intoxicating fragrance that enveloped every breath we took.
While one might wonder why we chose the off-season to make our way to the newest hotspot in the South – Hiriketiya – we would say that the cool breeze, the calm seas, and the occasional drizzle made the trip worth it. After a short bus ride, we found ourselves strolling along the beach, bare feet sinking into the warm sand, leaving imprints of our journey. The palm trees stood tall and proud, their leaves whispering tales of the ocean breeze. The sea beckoned us with its turquoise waters, inviting us to embrace it and surrender to its gentle sway. And so that’s what we did.
Even in the off-season, most places of accommodation are ready to welcome guests with open arms – unfortunately, the place we picked named Hiriketiya Beach Resort was not one such place. Used to the warm hospitality of the South, we found the staff at this particular resort to be quite rude and had an overall unpleasant stay. Nevertheless, we didn’t make the journey to sit in a hotel room all day, so our mini vacation was unperturbed.
As evening descended, Hiriketiya transformed once again. The sky became an artist’s canvas, painted with strokes of purples and blues. The first stars emerged, twinkling in the growing darkness. The village lights flickered to life, casting a warm glow upon the surrounding palm-fringed hills.
As night fell, we ventured to Dots Bay House for dinner, eager to immerse ourselves in its renowned laid-back vibe. As we stepped onto the sandy grounds, the tone was set for an unforgettable evening. The rustic charm of the restaurant, with its bamboo accents and beachy decor, exuded a sense of tranquillity and relaxation. The staff greeted us with warm smiles and guided us to a cosy spot. Our little corner nook was made even more memorable when the sweetest furry friend made himself comfortable on our lounge chair for the rest of the night. The many dogs there are well-behaved and surprisingly don’t hound guests for food, but will not refuse pets and affection.
As we savoured the delectable flavours of their culinary offerings – which for us was a couple of pizzas, we couldn’t help but be captivated by the infectious atmosphere. Conversations flowed effortlessly, laughter filled the air, and the mellow tunes playing in the background added to the ambience. Whether it’s the peak season or the quieter months, we wholeheartedly recommend Dots Bay House as a haven where one can unwind, savour delicious food, and soak in the easy-going vibes of this coastal retreat.
The next day, as the morning sun rose, it revealed the true essence of Hiriketiya. The sea, once calm and inviting, now displayed its fierce power, crashing against the rocky outcrops and creating mesmerising spray that adorned the air. We awoke to the loud drumming of rain – not a promising start to what we hoped would be a day of soaking up the sun and chilling in the ocean.
We made our way over to the newly opened La Playa, a beachside hotel that beckoned with its serene allure. As we stepped onto the soft sand, we were greeted by a whimsical sight: a landscape adorned with an array of beanbags and bean beds, inviting guests to sink into comfort and relaxation. The ambience was a harmonious blend of natural elements and artistic design. Every piece of furniture, meticulously crafted from cane and palm, exuded a rustic charm that seamlessly merged with the coastal surroundings.
Nestling into a cosy beanbag, we sought respite from the relentless sun under the shade of a palm-thatched hut. Here, tourists gathered, exchanging stories and laughter as they sipped on refreshing king coconut water. The hospitality at La Playa was phenomenal, making us feel like cherished guests in this coastal paradise.
In the off-season, Hiriketiya unfolded its hidden allure, offering a glimpse into a world untouched by mass tourism. It revealed its soul, whispered its stories, and embraced all who sought solace. It was a place where time seemed to stand still, where nature’s symphony was the only soundtrack, and where the spirit of Sri Lanka breathed life into every moment.
As we bid farewell to Hiriketiya – a few shades darker than before – we carried with us memories that shimmered like the sun-kissed waves. This coastal haven in the off-season had stolen our hearts, promising to remain a cherished treasure, waiting patiently for the next adventurer to discover its mesmerising beauty.