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Sri Lanka is an island nation surrounded by the ocean, known as a prime destination for both beginner and professional surfers. Many travelers visit the country to explore the waves or turn a budding interest into a true passion. Beyond surfing, Sri Lanka boasts stunning beaches, making it an excellent choice for a relaxing beach holiday. We spent two weeks in Sri Lanka, dedicating the second week entirely to unwinding by the sea.
Best Travel Season For Sri Lanka
The seasons on Sri Lankaโs beaches vary throughout the year. The rainy season in the southwest starts in May and lasts until September, while in the southeast, the monsoon season occurs between October and January.
We traveled to Sri Lanka in April, a transitional period between the western and eastern regions. Since the eastern monsoon season had not yet begun, we focused our stay on the southwest beaches and enjoyed mostly sunny and dry weather, making April an ideal choice for a spring holiday on the island.
Since we were traveling with a 2.4-year-old toddler, we sought a family-friendly hotel. Our key criteria included a swimming pool, proximity to the beach, and, if possible, a kids' club for playtime during the hotter hours of the day.
After extensive research, I am happy to share my recommendations for well-known hotels and their differences.
Traveling with a Toddler To Sri Lanka
When choosing accommodations in Sri Lanka with babies and toddlers, one major consideration is that most hotels do not have kids' clubs. A few do, so if this is important, be sure to check in advance. Other than that, every hotel provided us with a crib with no issues, and the staff was incredibly accommodating. In many places, we ordered off-menu meals for Dandan, and the staff gladly catered to our requests, including room service for a simple omelet and tomato. ๐
Hiriketiya Beach
A well-known and highly popular beach among tourists. The Hiriketiya area has several hotels, guesthouses, and many surf schools. The beach itself is long, with plenty of restaurants and bars.
Bookingย Rating:ย 9.2
Room Size:ย 46 sqm
Kids Club:ย Yes
A luxury resort by the renowned Anantara chain, this hotel offers vast grounds while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. It features two excellent restaurants (Italian and Asian/Japanese), a kidsโ club for children aged 4 and above (where kids can stay without parental supervision), a large swimming pool with a dedicated shallow area for toddlers, a long stretch of private beach, a gym, a spa, and daily complimentary yoga classes. Throughout our stay, we had a dedicated butler available via WhatsApp to assist with any requests and check on us regularly. The hotel is located in Tangalle, about a 20-minute drive from Hiriketiya Beach.
Weligama Beach
Weligama Beach is one of the most famous and tourist-friendly beaches in Sri Lanka, home to several well-known hotels that cater well to families with children. Below are the top recommendations for accommodations in Weligama.
Booking Rating:ย 9.0
Room Size:ย 45 sqm
Kids Club:ย Yes
For a perfect family vacation, this hotel is an excellent choice. It is widely recommended for families with kids due to its child-friendly atmosphere and private sandy beach accessible to all guests. The hotel features six diverse restaurants, ensuring delicious options for every family member. The spacious, comfortable rooms and outstanding service make it an ideal location for a relaxing and enjoyable family getaway.
Booking Rating:ย 9.6
Room Size:ย 50 sqm
Kids Club:ย No
Nestled within a lush tropical garden, this hotel offers complete privacy and tranquility. The adjacent private beach is a paradise with white sand and crystal-clear water. The beautifully designed villas provide an elegant and cozy ambiance, with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Every villa features breathtaking sea or garden views. The hotelโs restaurant serves fresh, high-quality local and international dishes.
Booking Rating:ย 9.2
Room Size:ย 130 sqm
Kids Club:ย Yes
For those seeking luxury, Cape Weligamaย is the ultimate destination. Perched on a high cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, this hotel offers breathtaking views and an unparalleled sense of tranquility. The spacious, beautifully designed villas come with private pools, ensuring privacy and maximum relaxation. The hotel boasts exceptional dining options featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients, making for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Galle City
Galle is one of Sri Lankaโs largest cities and the biggest in the southern region. It serves as the capital of Galle District and has been a major port for centuries. Originally built by the Portuguese, the city flourished under Dutch rule in the 18th century.
The Galle Dutch Fortย is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest fortress in Asia built by European colonialists. The Old Townย is an architectural gem and one of the most tourist-friendly areas, filled with top-rated restaurants, luxury hotels, boutique shops, and souvenir stalls. Here are some of the best hotels in Galle.
Booking Rating:ย 9.5
Room Size:ย 34 sqm
Kids Club:ย No
Located within a serene tropical garden, Elysiumย offers stunning sea views and a private beach. The modern-designed rooms and villas provide ultimate comfort and luxury, featuring plush beds, spacious bathrooms, and private terraces. The hotel's restaurant serves a selection of fresh, high-quality local and international dishes. Guests can enjoy spa treatments, a well-equipped fitness center, and leisure activities like yoga and water sports.
Booking Rating:ย 8.5
Room Size:ย 49 sqm
Kids Club:ย No
Situated in the heart of Galle, this luxury hotel blends breathtaking ocean views with historical charm. The Le Grand Galleย hotel is located near the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, offering a mix of modern elegance and colonial history. Guests can enjoy a large infinity pool, a fully-equipped spa, and a fine dining experience with ocean-view seating.
Booking Rating:ย 8.3
Room Size:ย 60 sqm
Kids Club:ย No
A blend of history and luxury, Jetwing Lighthouseย stands on a hill overlooking the Indian Ocean. Designed with colonial and modern influences, the hotel features handcrafted furniture and artistic dรฉcor. The hotel offers two outdoor pools, a luxury spa, a fitness center, and tennis courts, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.
Sri Lanka offers an ideal mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural heritage. Whether you're looking for a surferโs paradise, a tranquil retreat, or a family-friendly getaway, its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts cater to all travelers.
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