Conjuring images of golden beaches and salty sea spray, Talpe is a small town near Sri Lanka’s south-western tip. With historic Galle Fort to one side and popular surf spots on the other, this tranquil haven offers visitors an idyllic tropical escape. There is a broad range of accommodation options here, including family-run guesthouses and B&Bs to suit all budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Talpe are a collection of small characterful hotels and converted boutique villas ensuring plenty of privacy. Most overlook the Indian Ocean, and all have beautiful swimming pools. Whether you’re eager to sip cocktails at a lively bar within sight of the sea, to socialise in a gorgeous leafy garden or simply to amble from the infinity pool to the sand and back, there’s lots here to attract tropical travellers.

Part of Talpe’s appeal lies in its location: just over two hours from the airport on the expressway. This quiet stretch is also within easy reach of popular surf spots, with Kabalana and Ahangama a mere six miles away. Nearby Unawatuna brims with buzzing bars and cafés, whilst the Dutch-built fort in Galle, filled with boutiques and restaurants, is a quick six miles in the other direction. Cycle through villages and alongside paddy fields on a guided bike tour, try jungle yoga at a nearby shala, or stroll along the shore as the sun sets over the sea.

Most of the best places to stay in Talpe are set between the coast road and the ocean, whilst one of our favourite family hotels is hidden away just a few minutes from the beach. Make sure to book well in advance if you plan to travel during the high season, as these superb small hotels have limited rooms and book up swiftly!

The Best Places to Stay in Talpe

For Beachfront Bliss

• The Frangipani Tree has nine elegant, contemporary rooms in a fabulous beachfront setting. Relax in big four-poster beds, lounge around in hammocks strung between coconut palms, and sink into outdoor bathtubs for romantic starlit nights. Smart, spacious and stylish.
• Era Beach by Jetwing is an enormous beachside villa run by one of Sri Lanka’s leading hotel groups. Unwind by the generous swimming pool or get chatting to fellow guests in the hotel bar — with just eight rooms, there’s a wonderfully convivial feel. Great for couples or solo travellers.
• Apa Villa Thalpe is a charming tile-roofed bungalow offering lovely sea views. Each of the seven spacious suites boasts its own sitting area and polished concrete bathrooms are huge. Pick this spot for maximum privacy: the hotel’s delicious food is served to your terrace table for alfresco dining in seclusion.

For Quirky Chic

• The Owl and the Pussycat is a bright, bold seaside spot offering striking views of crashing waves and traditional stilt fishermen at work. Individually decorated rooms and suites reflect the hotel’s funky feel, inspired by Edward Lear’s whimsical poem. Think laid-back days, sunset cocktails and terrific seafood. Especially good for couples.

For Families or Groups

• Why House lies inland in the village of Mihiripenna and boasts a superb sociable vibe, with lush gardens, a big swimming pool and wonderful chill out areas for the whole family. Attentive staff are very flexible if you're travelling with little ones. Ten beautifully appointed rooms are available in different configurations to suit couples, families and groups.
• Satin Doll's five bedrooms are decorated with Indian antiques and monochromatic artwork. Much of the appeal of the house lies in its airy open spaces, leading to a swimming pool, and superb ocean views. The property can be rented in its entirety for a group trip, and the natural division of rooms into two wings makes it ideal for families travelling together. One room has twin beds, and the family suite features bunk beds for little ones. An intimate beachfront villa-hotel.
• Sielen Diva is a hip, modernist hotel facing the Indian Ocean. Pick this place for the dramatic, minimalist architecture and 180° floor-to-ceiling sea views from the seven rooms and suites. There's a big pool, open-sided restaurant and excellent games room, well-suited to families with older children or groups of friends. Book the whole place as a generous villa for an extended family or group getaway.

For an apartment or villa

• If you’d prefer to stay in a self-catering apartment or private villa we recommend that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Talpe is just over two hours’ drive on the modern expressway from Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport. Most hotels will be able to arrange an airport pickup with a reliable driver.
• If you are travelling from Colombo, regular trains run directly from Fort Station to Galle (20 minutes from Talpe) or to Talpe Station itself. The train is certainly slower than travelling by car, but tickets are cheap and the coastal route offers enchanting sea views. The journey takes two to three hours.
• Time your trip to coincide with the south coast’s peak season (from November to March) for sunshine and the best of the year’s surf. Whilst the sea will be too rough to swim or surf during the off-season, hotels are likely to be quieter and offer off-peak rates. Bear in mind that places will book up quickly during the high season!
• Strong currents mean that the sea is often too rough for children to swim. Do ask hotel staff for advice on safe spots for a dip. Dalawella Beach, a short walk away, is a great family swimming spot.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include our recommendations in Galle.
• Alternatively check out our pick of all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.