Kalpitiya Peninsula

Photo of Kalpitiya Peninsula
Photo of Kalpitiya Peninsula
Credit: flickr user mickysj
Photo of Kalpitiya Peninsula
Credit: flickr user lakpuratravels
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About Kalpitiya Peninsula

Set high on Sri Lanka’s west coast, Kalpitiya remains amongst the island’s most underrated seaside destinations. Just over three hours’ drive from Colombo, it’s well off the beaten track, and has instead become a favourite of kite surfers, yogis and families seeking an easygoing escape far from the trendy beach towns of the south coast. A number of characterful hotels and guesthouses dot the golden coastline, with the best places to stay on the Kalpitiya Peninsula promising a warm, authentic Sri Lankan welcome.

Kite surfers have long flocked to Kalpitiya; this little stretch of the teardrop island has a reputation for being amongst the best kite-surfing spots in the world. A south-westerly wind blows fairly consistently between May and October, making the Kalpitiya Lagoon a brilliant place to get to grips with the sport. The other big draw for ocean-goers is the chance to see whales and pods of dolphins out at sea. Look into your choice of tour operator carefully, and you can expect a sensational experience!

Venture inland to discover tranquil fishing villages and Puttalam town, studded with landmarks paying testament to this region’s long history of Indian Ocean trade. The Wilpattu National Park, within easy reach, is a magical setting for early morning or evening safaris. Catch glimpses of slinking leopards, secretive sloth bears, elephants and water buffalo from your Jeep. Return to your pick of the best places to stay on the Kalpitiya Peninsula for gorgeous sunsets and seafood feasts with your toes in the sand.

The Best Places to Stay in Kalpitiya

For kite surfers & yogis

  • Anawasal is a simple five-bedroom retreat set on one acre of sandy gardens on the Kalpitiya Lagoon. Thatched cabanas have beds topped with mosquito nets, outdoor bathrooms for starlit showers, and a refreshing swimming pool. A wellness-focused retreat with a seaside yoga shala and healthy cuisine, and kite surf moments away.
  • The Rascals Kite Resort has whitewashed minimalist cabanas in leafy grounds. The kite school has an excellent reputation, and the post-kite vibe is all about gathering together for fresh sourdough pizzas and cold beers. Friendly, laid-back and stylish. Anawasal is just next door.

For families

  • Dolphin Beach has long been a family favourite. Generous tents are set within sandy gardens, and the focus is very much on water sports and boat trips to spot pods of dolphins. Children's menus are available, and dishes can be adapted to suit the preferences of little ones. Expect laid-back, characterful spaces with thatched or tented roofs on an expansive stretch of golden beach.
  • Palagama Beach offers thatched guest rooms with draped four posters, huge outdoor showers, bright textiles and ocean views. Savour buffet breakfasts and seafood feasts at the friendly restaurant, and cool off with a dip in the pool. A great value choice for couples, friends or families.

For boutique chic

  • Koddu Kalpitiya is a chic luxury hotel with just six sea-facing suites. Elegant interiors feature white and cream textiles, light wooden furnishings and sink-into beds. There's a swimming pool, plus gourmet fare sourced in part from the organic vegetable gardens. Romantic and relaxed. 
  • Luna Laguna, a charming, antique-filled villa, has six individually decorated bedrooms with soft linens and well-chosen curios. The palm-framed pool and shaded terraces are ideal for unwinding; the seafood and curry lunches are sensational. An intimate boutique bolthole for artsy types and romantics. 

For an apartment or villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering stay, we'd suggest visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Bandaranaike International Airport, just over three hours from Kalpitiya by road. Speak to your hotel about booking a car in advance.
  • Consider hiring a driver or taking slow yet scenic trains to navigate Sri Lanka. We'd recommend driving only if you have previous experience navigating bustling Asian roads. If you would like to hire a car, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
  • Temperatures in Kalpitiya are hot and humid for much of the year, hovering around 30°C. The heat reaches its peak in April, and the coolest months are between June and September. The monsoon rains are expected between October and December. For kite surfing, travel between May and October.

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The best hotels in Kalpitiya Peninsula

Anawasal
Anawasal

Kalpitiya Peninsula (Sri Lanka)

A simple five-bedroom retreat on one acre of sandy gardens bordering Kalpitiya Lagoon. Think thatched cabanas with mosquito net-topped beds, outdoor bathrooms for showers under the stars & a refreshing swimming pool. The seaside yoga shala & wellness-focused cuisine add to the tranquil appeal.

  • Yoga - Yoga offerings include vinyasa flow and yin yoga, with regular classes held in the lagoon-front shala
  • Value chic - Intimate, affordable and understated, with just five cabanas, big breakfasts & cosy shared spaces
  • Total relaxation - A simple retreat with a wellness focus, yoga classes & a relaxing swimming pool
  • Kayaking - Borrow kayaks and paddle boards to glide across the waters of the lagoon
from AU$135 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Dolphin Beach
Dolphin Beach

Kalpitiya Peninsula (Sri Lanka)

Luxurious tented beach accommodation specialising in dolphin trips and water sports. Nine eclectic tents are dotted around luscious grounds and there are plenty of chic, shady lounge areas to relax. There is a tasty Sri Lankan à la carte menu but chef Nalin is happy to take requests.

  • Safari - Wilpattu National Park is famed for its leopards and birds - early morning or afternoon safaris come highly recommended!
  • Families - Family suites, lots of activities, children's menus, plus plenty of gardens and a whole beach to run around
  • Watersports - One of the most striking kite surfing spots in the world, with a wonderfully breezy lagoon
  • Active Holiday - Kite surfing, water sports and dolphin trips - something for everyone
from AU$156 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia Check availability on LateRooms
Luna Laguna
Luna Laguna

Kalpitiya Peninsula (Sri Lanka)

A charming six-bedroom villa, filled with antiques, soft linens & carefully curated curios. Lush gardens frame this little oasis, with its cool, palm-fringed pool, cosy nooks & shaded terraces. A tranquil, art-filled haven in a vastly underrated part of Sri Lanka. Available per room or exclusively.

  • Sights nearby - The Kalpitiya Dutch Fort is just 10 minutes away, and guided tours are a fantastic way to delve into the region's history
  • Safari - Boat rides to Wilpattu National Park will delight wildlife enthusiasts, who can spot leopards, elephants & birds by Jeep
  • Groups - Book the whole house for a very special trip with friends and family — there's space for up to 14 guests
  • Romantic Break - Beautiful guest bedrooms with antique pieces, handwoven textiles & mood lighting will delight romantics
from AU$160 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia Check availability on LateRooms
The Rascals Kite Resort
The Rascals Kite Resort

Kalpitiya Peninsula (Sri Lanka)

A lively kite surfers' haven, with whitewashed, minimalist cabanas set in lush gardens on the Kalpitiya Peninsula. Rascals Kite School has a superb reputation — and the post-kite vibes to match. Expect fresh sourdough pizzas & cold beers in a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Fantastic.

  • Great walks - Guided walking tours with AJ, the resident naturalist, are fascinating & a perfect way to discover Sri Lanka's lush vegetation
  • Active Holiday - Perfect for keen kite surfers — beginners or more experienced — to hone their skills in a friendly & lively setting
  • Watersports - The onsite Rascals Kite School offers fun, highly regarded kite surfing lessons and equipment
  • Eco break - Focus on community development projects, using natural materials & minimalising waste
from AU$172 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Palagama Beach
Palagama Beach

Kalpitiya Peninsula (Kalpitiya)

A collection of cabanas and villas metres from the beach. Rooms are decorated with bright, pop colours, a sit out terrace and huge outdoor showers (in some a bath). The restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and fresh seafood. There is a pool and spa. This is barefoot luxury at a reasonable price.

  • Beach Life - Some of the cabanas are so close to the water if they were any closer you'd get swept away with the tide.
  • Romantic Break - The four poster beds, private cabanas and sunsets make this a perfect romantic stay.
  • Families - Kids are well looked after here with plenty of on site activities and private beach
  • Cooking classes - Organise a cooking class with the chef and learn how to make some traditional Sri Lanka 'hoppers'.
from AU$192 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Koddu Kalpitiya
Koddu Kalpitiya

Kalpitiya Peninsula (Sri Lanka)

A chic, contemporary boutique hotel boasting six sea-facing suites in verdant gardens. Elegant interiors are decorated in white & cream, with private terraces, sink-into beds & light wood furnishings. The cooling swimming pool & organic vegetable gardens add to the appeal. Romantic, relaxed luxury.

  • Cooking classes - Learn to create a flavoursome seafood curry with the hotel chef and expert women from the village
  • Birdwatching - Bird watching excursions on the lagoons, mangrove swamps & flat coastal plains are sensational
  • Total relaxation - Kick back in peaceful surroundings, with just six suites, lush gardens & restorative yoga
  • Romantic Break - A chic little boutique hotel, offering contemporary suites & romantic private dining
from AU$732 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia Check availability on LateRooms