The Department of Wildlife Conservation, in partnership with the Hikkaduwa Hoteliers and Tour Guides Association, launched certified eco-tourism reef trails today, September 24, 2026, at Hikkaduwa Marine National Park.

Designed to safeguard delicate shallow-water coral colonies and visiting olive ridley sea turtles, the program introduces designated swimming corridors and mandates reef-friendly sunscreen protocols for ocean visitors. Trained community naturalists are leading guided low-impact snorkeling tours and twilight beach walks, providing visitors with immersive educational insights into marine biodiversity while channeling eco-tourism proceeds into local community conservation funds.