Close your eyes and imagine yourself in Sri Lanka on a sandy beach of a turquoise lagoon, fringed with coconut palms and fruit trees. Feel the touch of the sun’s rays, a gentle breeze, the whisper of gentle waves, and sand flowing between your fingers. In reality, this fantastic picture and unforgettable vacation are within reach, if you wish.
Welcome to Sri Lanka — an exotic island of eternal summer and an amazing country with a rich historical and cultural heritage. You will be greeted by hospitable and friendly people, ancient cities and temples, national parks, stunning landscapes, and excellent tourist infrastructure. To make your beach holiday as enjoyable as possible, we suggest visiting hotels in Sri Lanka with calm beaches.
Thaproban Pavilion Waves Unawatuna 5*
Experience true bliss at one of the best resorts, conveniently located near the most popular beaches — Unawatuna, Jungle Beach, and Rumassala South. A wide strip of fine golden sand here is adjacent to calm turquoise waters hiding coral reefs with countless fish and turtles. Guests are offered bright and airy rooms with beautiful interiors, a living area, and panoramic windows with stunning views that immerse you in a sense of complete tranquility.
In the hospitable restaurant, hearty American breakfasts are served, along with delicious continental, oriental, Sri Lankan, and fusion dishes. The establishment stands out for its friendly service, stylish wooden furniture, live music, and surrounding natural landscapes that set the tone for unforgettable dinners.
There are two infinity pools with fresh and saltwater, a first-class spa center on the roof, and a terrace with a mesmerizing view of the sea sunset.
The surroundings are ideal for active sports, cycling, walking, diving, snorkeling, and surfing. You can visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda, the ancient Yatagala temple, or go on a jeep safari tour through Yala Wildlife Park.
Villa Thawthisa The Boutique Hotel 5*
Located on the slope of the picturesque Rumassala mountain, this luxurious option is the perfect place to discover the beauty of incredible Unawatuna and its famous beach. Guests are accommodated in comfortable suites with exclusive designs, white high-tech interiors, marble floors, tropical showers, and Jacuzzis on the balcony or a private mini-pool on the terrace.
From all rooms, a cozy restaurant, and a bar, there is a 200-degree panoramic view of the tropical jungle, a landscape swimming pool, and the vast ocean. The impeccable and varied cuisine is provided by deliciously prepared Sri Lankan, Chinese, Asian, and international dishes, appetizing seafood, barbecue dishes, delightful desserts, and fruits. Regular themed dinners and cooking classes are held.
During an exciting walk to the beautiful beach, you’ll encounter charming cafes, jewelry and souvenir shops, and amazing local animals: monkeys, peacocks, chipmunks, lizards, and butterflies. Water sports enthusiasts will enjoy activities like jet skiing, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat rides to explore the enchanting underwater world of coral reefs.
Amaranthe Bay Resort & Spa 5*
This stylish complex is conveniently located on the bank of a winding river flowing into the Amarante Bay, 5 km from the city of Trincomalee. The lush, well-maintained grounds feature a landscaped garden, a large landscape pool with a comfortable lounge area, a modern spa center, and a mini-zoo. The excellent room stock offers various categories of spacious suites with luxurious interiors, good layouts, Jacuzzis, and panoramic river views.
Restaurant visitors note the first-class service, unparalleled local and international cuisine, diverse desserts, and the amazing assortment of freshly caught shrimp, crabs, lobsters, squid, white and red sea bass. In the relaxing atmosphere of the poolside bar with chill-out music, colorful pillows, and comfortable bean bags, you can order an exotic cocktail.
For young guests, there is a play area with many entertainments, sweets, ice cream, and drinks. Interesting themed evenings are held with exquisite decorations, live music, and culinary feasts. Fishing enthusiasts can go on a night squid fishing trip. Nearby are picturesque sandy lagoons, hot springs, wildlife parks, and ancient temples.
Heritance Negombo 5*
This option is deservedly recognized as the gem of the Negombo resort. Located on the first line and just 8 km from the airport, it is ideal both for a full-fledged beach relaxation and for starting an exciting journey across Sri Lanka or taking a breather after it. Guests are greeted by a neat facade with a well-kept lawn and touching sculptural compositions.
Spacious comfortable rooms have stylish designs, semi-open layouts, and wonderful furnished balconies where you can watch the blazing ocean sunsets. A wide sandy beach and the main pool with a bar and picturesque lounge area are at the disposal of vacationers. Several restaurants, cafes, and a Swiss bakery operate on the premises. The main restaurant with an open kitchen is beyond praise.
It’s fascinating to watch how the chefs skillfully prepare the tastiest dishes from the freshest products. Such an exquisite presentation is not seen in every European establishment. Besides the main menu, the assortment of light snacks, desserts, and juices from various fruits and herbs, such as gotu kola, is striking. All this is just a small part of what is offered to tourists. Walking outside is also not boring. Just go out, and you’ll immediately find yourself in the whirlpool of nightlife.
Amagi Aria 5*
A modern beach resort located on the shore of a picturesque lagoon in the city of Negombo. Apart from its extremely convenient location, the hallmark is the friendly staff, impeccable service, and very tasty food. Unforgettable relaxation is offered in stylish rooms with all amenities, unique paintings, numerous bright pillows, a balcony or terrace with stunning views of the quiet lagoon or blooming tropical garden with a well-kept lawn, lush palms, and fruit trees.
Here, you will be offered round-the-clock service with the opportunity to swim in the outdoor pool, visit the gym, or the spa, spend the evening in a cozy rooftop bar where you can enjoy the sunset with a glass of your favorite drink.
Live music in the restaurant creates a romantic mood, and excellent breakfasts, exquisite Asian dishes, various seafood, delicacies, pastries, and desserts give a feeling of satiety and serenity. If you want to go for a walk around the island – there is a tourist bureau here, whose employees will help organize an informative and interesting leisure.
Pledge Scape 5*
Located on the first line in Negombo. In this wonderful place, you will be surrounded with unobtrusive attention, sincere care, and a friendly atmosphere. Feel at home in one of the luxurious rooms with individual decoration, thoughtfully designed interiors, and stunning views of the sea expanses with white sails of fishing boats.
You will be captivated by the well-kept beach and the landscape pool with an exotic bar, perfect for relaxing in the sun with a signature cocktail. The main restaurant with an interactive kitchen and open terrace is decorated in a modern style, and the international and Lankan dishes served here are capable of delighting even the most demanding gourmets.
The elegant lounge bar attracts guests with a variety of light snacks, signature beers, strong and refreshing drinks. On the roof, there is a modern gym and an atmospheric bar with a great buffet, live music, and an endless horizon around. Nearby is a beach park, shops, cafes, and city attractions.
Agnus Unawatuna 4*
Located near Jungle Beach on the slope of Rumassala Mountain, 2 km from the port city of Galle. It has functional double suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and furnished balconies, from which you can admire the azure bay, fringed with a golden strip of coast and lush greenery of palms. Elegant interiors with modern touches create a sense of tranquility and timeless comfort. Treat yourself to traditional and Asian cuisine, fresh seafood, and an extensive selection of more familiar continental dishes in two hospitable restaurants.
Enjoy the cool breeze with a glass of wine or cold beer from the overseas collection in the stylish rooftop lounge or take a dip in the neighboring landscape pool. Go down the picturesque path to the golden beach, where you will be greeted by the gentle whisper of coastal waves and the amazing underwater world of coral reefs. Order a sea trip to watch blue whales or an excursion to Udawalawe National Park.
Camelot Beach Hotel 4*
Another worthy option for a resort holiday, located on the first line 100 meters from Negombo Beach. Friendly and attentive staff, a beautiful and very green area, two pools with a good tanning area, excellent and diverse cuisine, an ayurvedic spa, a beach with golden sand and gentle waves — all this creates an atmosphere of peace and relaxation.
Cozy rooms delight with laconic interiors that, despite their simplicity, leave a feeling of surprisingly organic space. You can dine at the Sangreal restaurant, specializing in local, Indian, Asian, international cuisines, seafood, and grill/barbecue dishes.
Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are elegantly served in the buffet format, and at other times you can order food from the à la carte menu. In the cute lounge bar, you can drink your favorite cocktail or enjoy delicious ice cream with exotic fillings. There are many authentic cafes, shops, and tourist spots nearby, such as Catholic churches and Buddhist temples.
Triple O Six 4*
An excellent option for a relaxing holiday, very popular in Mirissa. Designed and built with love, it is an elegant embodiment of Sri Lanka’s architectural diversity. The stylish design of the hotel spaces, exquisitely decorated interiors with original artworks — all this creates a special intimate atmosphere.
The room stock includes spacious suites of various categories, equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable and peaceful rest. Chic floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to enjoy views of the landscape pool with a blooming garden and the azure waters of the ocean. The restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy hearty continental breakfasts, vibrant Indian and Asian dishes, fresh seafood, and desserts in a homely atmosphere with family and friends.
Each season, new delicacies are offered to guests, which will delight both in taste and impressive presentation. Lovers of active pastime can enjoy exciting diving and fishing. You can go on a sea trip and watch blue whales or order an interesting excursion deep into the island at the tourist bureau.
Thaproban Beach House 4*
A large wooden guesthouse decorated in a colonial style and located on the edge of a wide beach in the central part of magnificent Unawatuna. Guests have twelve bright rooms of various categories with beautiful designs, carved canopy beds, wooden floors, and panoramic windows at their disposal.
It boasts not only excellent service but also the absence of big waves, picturesque landscapes, and magical ocean sunsets. Each morning, the restaurant serves continental breakfasts, as well as classic and Lankan dishes. The à la carte menu includes a wide range of fresh salads, meat and poultry, appetizing seafood in the form of red lobsters, grilled tiger prawns, tuna steaks baked with aromatic herbs, sea bass, and other delicacies.
In the cozy bar, guests are offered light snacks, barbecue dishes, refreshing drinks, and perfectly brewed coffee. There are many entertainment and outdoor activities around. You can go diving or take a bike ride. The National Maritime Museum and the unique Koggala Lake are 15 minutes away by car.
Somerset Mirissa 3*
Located on a beautiful green hill in the town of Mirissa, 150 meters from its magnificent beach and 2 km from the secluded Weligambay Bay. It features a warm architectural design with the use of stone and wood, a landscaped garden with a panoramic eco-pool, cozy and bright rooms with modern amenities, and sliding glass walls with stunning views of the ocean and tropical jungle.
The local restaurant is praised for its varied breakfasts, appetizing Italian, Chinese, and Asian dishes, culinary delights from the chef, and unmatched desserts. In the poolside bar, you can hide from the midday sun with an aromatic hookah and an exotic cocktail. For guest relaxation, there is a relaxation area, a sun terrace, and barbecue facilities.
Those who wish can sign up for yoga classes or order a relaxing massage. There is the necessary equipment for surfing, diving, snorkeling, and sea fishing. The strip of picturesque beaches is a great place for photoshoots and long walks under the refreshing ocean breeze.
Rock Fort Hotel & SPA Unawatuna 3*
Another option for an unforgettable vacation, located close to the beaches of Unawatuna and Dalawella, carefully sheltered from ocean waves by coral reefs. Here you can go diving, snorkeling, fishing, watch sea turtles, dive into the water from a palm swing, and take interesting photos against the backdrop of stunning landscapes.
The complex is distinguished by a high level of service, friendly staff, good infrastructure, and a wide range of services offered. Guests have cozy rooms with all amenities and modern interiors, a beautiful well-kept beach, and an outdoor pool at their disposal. You can participate in a luxurious buffet or order a variety of dishes from Indonesian, Chinese, Indian, Asian, Italian, and American cuisines, wonderful pastries, exotic fruits, and freshly squeezed juices from the à la carte menu.
The wellness center offers spa treatments, phototherapy, wraps, and peels. Guests can go on exciting excursions around the island. In 4-8 km there is a turtle farm, a tea factory, the Dutch fort of Galle with a beautiful lighthouse, and numerous Buddhist temples.
Hotel J, Unawatuna 3*
Located on the southwestern coast of the island on the outskirts of Unawatuna. Outside, tourists are greeted by an old colonial mansion, and inside — friendly and responsive staff, an elegantly decorated lobby, and white spaces with bright installations. The enclosed cozy area creates the atmosphere of a large Indian house with a magnificent pool in the center. Pleasant rooms are decorated in light tones and equipped with the necessary set of modern amenities.
Local beaches with golden sands and all kinds of entertainment can be reached in 10-15 minutes on foot or by tuk-tuk. The restaurant is highly appreciated by vacationers for its tasty English breakfasts, diverse international cuisine, and the opportunity to taste freshly caught seafood, masterfully prepared by the chef.
You can drink a cup of aromatic coffee in a beloved cafe, use barbecue facilities, or sunbathe on the terrace. Diving and snorkeling are especially popular in the area. Nearby is the Yatagala temple and the attractions of the historic city of Galle.
Hotel J, Negombo 3*
Located on the golden sands of calm Negombo, this vibrant youth complex offers its guests Sri Lankan hospitality and excellent service. Original interiors and bright colors give small rooms a special appeal and liveliness. The adjoining wide beach area has a good swimming pool with sun loungers and colorful bean bags.
In the restaurant, a continental or Lankan breakfast is served, and dishes of international cuisine and appetizingly cooked seafood are served à la carte. In the rooftop bar, guests can enjoy a mesmerizing view of the ocean and an extensive selection of light snacks, drinks, cocktails, and freshly squeezed juices.
You can book excursions at the tourist office or go outside the hotel and discover the amazing Negombo with its historical and cultural attractions, for example, take a boat trip along the famous Dutch canal with mangrove thickets toward the picturesque lagoon.
Ballena Regency 3*
An excellent place for a quiet holiday in the tourist heart of Mirissa. This modern complex with comfortable rooms, classic interiors, a calm atmosphere, and friendly staff is conducive to a relaxed and comfortable stay. The picturesque landscapes around and a private sandy beach two minutes’ walk away are another advantage.
The centerpiece is the round-the-clock stylish rooftop restaurant with a magnificent sea view, where hearty and tasty continental breakfasts in buffet format are served until noon. The extensive menu includes European, Asian, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, and local cuisine, as well as unmatched seafood, fruits, desserts, and juices.
In the evenings, live music plays, and themed dinners are held. There is a large swimming pool with a children’s section and a comfortable tanning area, as well as an outdoor playground. Many options for active recreation are provided: fishing, diving, snorkeling, cycling, canoeing, billiards, darts, and ping-pong. There are cafes, shops, and fantastic spa salons around.
Best Hotels in Sri Lanka with Great Beaches
