Casa Tikiri

A deservedly popular honeymoon destination, Sri Lanka boasts a wide range of beautiful boutique hotels. The southern coast's seaside hotels are wonderful, but much of the island's magic lies in its verdant interior. All within easy reach of the sea, the nine small hotels on our list promise a warm welcome and beautifully personalised service — and a real sense of tranquility which is not always felt by the beach, where surfers and swimmers congregate. Hide away in contemporary spots on the banks of Koggala Lake, dine under the stars at the country retreat of Sri Lanka's most famous architect, or rise early for yoga in the thatched shalas of elegant eco-escapes.

Two of our selections are within gorgeous Galle Fort, which feels appealingly sleepy in the off-season, but has a real buzz between November and March. Travellers who visit during those times can still expect our top spots to offer a cocoon of calm, with striking courtyards, gourmet fare and rejuvenating massages. Whether you book one of our honeymoon hideaways as part of a longer trip around the island, or simply choose to kick back in one place for the duration of your stay, you're set to enjoy a very special holiday!

For Waterfront Style 

Tri Lanka

  • Tri Lanka is a striking high-end eco-haven hidden away on the banks of Koggala Lake. Beautiful rooms, suites and villas — some with private plunge pools — feature minimalist design, natural materials and a real focus on sustainability. Unwind at the spa or the yoga shala, dine on delectable seasonal dishes in the restaurant and while away evenings gazing up at the stars. A real honeymoon treat.
  • Kurulu Bay also overlooks tranquil Koggala Lake. Specialising in rejuvenating retreats, this verdant oasis has 14 minimalist cottages, a refreshing swimming pool, yoga shala and open-sided eatery with a zingy, Mediterranean-inspired menu. Romantic and very stylish. 
  • Villa SPACE, set upon a hill close to Unawatuna, boasts striking Indian Ocean views. The top-floor eatery serves seasonal dishes and craft cocktails — best enjoyed on the sea-facing balcony. Kick back in cosy guest rooms, soak up the sunshine at the pool, or take private yoga classes. A hip spot with a contemporary feel. 

For Galle Fort

Amangalla

Galle Fort is a bustling walled town, filled with residences, shops and eateries, and home to a fascinating, close-knit community. Many of the Fort's historic buildings have been painstakingly transformed into boutique hotels. Step inside for a welcome retreat from the buzz of the streets, with centuries-old courtyards, flowering frangipani trees and refreshing pools. 

  • Amangalla, the most luxurious of the Fort's hotels, is an imposing white-painted building just along from the Dutch Reformed Church. Expect impressive period furnishings, spacious guest rooms and indulgent bathrooms. As befits the Aman group, the spa is sensational. You'll also find a generous swimming pool — rare in Galle Fort — and gourmet cuisine. Classic afternoon teas and sundowners are a real treat.
  • The Fort Printers, once a boys' school and later a print shop, has a chic, minimalist style. Guest rooms and suites have creaky floorboards, big beds and views over red-tiled rooftops. Expect carefully selected antiques and modern art pieces. The food is fabulous, and the barmen can create cracking cocktails. One for well-heeled holidaymakers. 

For an Understated Rural Hideaway

Tekanda Lodge

  • Tekanda Lodge is hidden inland of Ahangama, featuring just six rooms in thatched bungalows with polished concrete floors and lovely textiles. Unwind by the pool, enjoy Ayurvedic massages, and gaze out over Koggala Lake. Elegant, eco-conscious and wonderfully welcoming. 
  • Casa Tikiri, an understated, vintage-inspired hideaway in Kabalana, has seven romantic rooms & suites. Expect draped beds, indoor-outdoor bathrooms, soft pastel tones & artisanal curios. Savour fresh pasta and mouth-watering aperitivos. Adult-only, with a rustic surf vibe. 

For a Luxurious Country Retreat

Kahanda Kanda

  • Kahanda Kanda, tucked away in tea-leaf covered hills just to the north of Koggala, is the creation of interior designer George Cooper. Striking suites include a fabulous Balinese teak house. Think restorative yoga, a soothing spa, gourmet cuisine and romantic dinners under the stars. 
  • Lunuganga, created by architect Geoffrey Bawa as his private country retreat, offers ten individually designed suites. Set in secluded buildings within gorgeous wild gardens, this is a magical escape for romantics with a penchant for heritage style, beautiful artwork and verdant spaces. The garden tours are a highlight, and lake views from the restaurant very special. 

Still Not Sure? 

9 Honeymoon Hideaways in Southern Sri Lanka

Lunuganga

Bentota (Sri Lanka)

Set within 15 acres of landscaped gardens, Lunuganga was once the country retreat of acclaimed architect Geoffrey Bawa. Now a small hotel, this boutique property features antique furnishings, an eclectic art collection and beautiful airy spaces. Feast on Sri Lankan cuisine after guided garden tours.

  • Country Escape - Savour the seclusion of this gorgeous rural retreat, with stunning wild gardens created by Geoffrey Bawa & his team
  • Great walks - Guided tours of the gardens run three times each day, and offer a fascinating insight into Bawa's life and work
  • Birdwatching - The 15 acres of gardens are filled with birds and butterflies, perfect for keen wildlife enthusiasts
  • Honeymoons - An iconic retreat with characterful suites for honeymooners looking to hide away together
from CA$391 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Kahanda Kanda

Koggala (Sri Lanka)

Up in the tea-leaf covered hills surrounding Galle, Kahanda Kanda is a lover’s retreat. Comprised of ten private suites, tucked away in lush grounds, decorated in a luxurious and modern décor. With private dining, spa treatments and plenty of activities this is one for hopeless romantics.

  • Honeymoons - A beautiful honeymoon escape with romantic private villas, superb candlelit dining, and a rejuvenating spa
  • Yoga - The onsite yoga shala is ideal for private early morning yoga overlooking the jungle and fluttering birds
  • Weddings - A popular venue for exquisite weddings, planned by a fabulous team and held in magical surroundings
  • Cooking classes - Take fabulous cooking classes with the team, learning to make delicious Sri Lankan specialities
from CA$470 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Fort Printers

Galle (Galle Fort)

Recently renovated, this bijou hotel has had some high profile guests. Behind the traditional façade, it's all double height ceilings and modern chic style. Lunch and dinner are tailored to your preference, but with Galle town on your doorstep you have plenty of options. A design dream!

  • Great walks - Join Galle Fort locals for a sunrise or sunset stroll around the 2.5km of sea-facing ramparts which surround the Fort
  • Sights nearby - The Portuguese-era Black Fort is fascinating and well-worth visiting, with ocean views & a striking tunnel
  • Foodies - Foodies will adore the gourmet fare at 39th Bistro & Wine Bar, as well as the cracking cocktails
  • Romantic Break - A romantic boutique hotel with heritage charm and a swish sense of style, with a chic restaurant
from CA$290 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Amangalla

Galle (Sri Lanka)

Galle's top address. Cast your worries aside as you are taken care of by the world renowned Aman group. Located in a handsome, white colonial building you'll find chic interiors and suites crammed with period pieces and beautiful bathrooms. Elegant dining and a sumptuous spa complete the picture.

  • Romantic Break - Charming heritage suites, an indulgent spa and delicious dining make this a great couples' break
  • Yoga - Private yoga classes are a wonderful way to start the day in a beautiful part of Sri Lanka
  • Spa breaks - Aman's sensational spa, The Baths, promises rejuvenating treatments in a striking setting
  • Cooking classes - Fabuous cooking classes are a brilliant way to hone your Sri Lankan culinary skills
from CA$771 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Tri Lanka

Koggala (Sri Lanka)

Boutique eco-hideaway near Galle Fort, 11 rooms, mostly in separate villas enveloped in lush greenery. Sleek wood-and-stone restaurant terrace offers top-notch fusion fare, plus views across Koggala Lake. A romantic haven. World class yoga and excellent spa also make it the ideal detox escape.

  • Hotel boats for hire - Private boat trips on the lake are magical, with flitting birds, slinking crocodiles and houses emerging from lush vegetation
  • Cycling - Hop on the hotel's bicycles to zip through the villages, along narrow lanes and lakeside paths as you explore the area
  • Total relaxation - There are few spots as serene in Sri Lanka - morning yoga completes the vibe
  • Romantic Break - Private treetop cottages make this an ideal romantic escape
from CA$445 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Tekanda Lodge

Ahangama

A stunning lodge on a hilltop on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, with wonderful views of the jungle and the Indian Ocean. The decor blends natural stone, wood, and thatched roofs, creating an elegant yet rustic feel. With an infinity pool, yoga deck, and family-style dining, it makes for a relaxed stay.

  • Romantic Break - Experience colonial charm with private verandas, freestanding bathtubs, and intimate candlelit dinners under the stars
  • Cooking classes - Participate in Sri Lankan dhal cookery classes, learning to create traditional dishes with the lodge's chef
  • Eco break - Sustainable luxury with solar power, locally-sourced organic cuisine, and eco-friendly architecture
  • Back to Nature - Nestled amidst the lush Sri Lankan jungle with panoramic views of Koggala Lake and the Indian Ocean
from CA$341 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Villa SPACE

Unawatuna (Sri Lanka)

An intimate boutique hotel on a hill overlooking Unawatuna Bay, with cosy guest rooms featuring antique four-poster beds & chic open-air bathrooms. The top-floor dining room boasts striking sea views & offers a selection of fantastic fare & cocktails. An inviting swimming pool awaits. Very trendy.

  • City Style - A chic boutique hotel with contemporary wooden & polished concrete interiors, along with well-chosen antiques
  • Sights nearby - The Japanese Peace Pagoda, on the point overlooking Unawatuna Beach, is very striking and well worth visting
  • Romantic Break - Romantics will appreciate the terraces with sea views, cocktails & fantastic fare, plus the tranquil vibe
  • Surfing - Head just along the coast to Kabalana and Ahangama for superb surf breaks, lessons & board hire
from CA$258 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Casa Tikiri

Ahangama (Sri Lanka)

A beautifully understated, vintage-inspired hideaway in Kabalana, offering seven romantic rooms & suites. Expect draped beds, indoor-outdoor bathrooms, pastel tones & artisanal curios. The swimming pool, lush gardens & eatery — with cocktails, moreish aperitivos & fresh pasta — are lovely.

  • Romantic Break - Ideal for romantics, with draped beds in charming rooms with pastel tones, cocktails & Italian fare in the evenings
  • Hideaway - A tranquil hideaway for adults with easygoing suites in lush gardens just 300 metres from Kabalana Beach
  • Surfing - The south coast will delight surfers — you can hire boards & take lessons at nearby Kabalana Beach
  • Restaurant - The restaurant serves great Sri Lankan and Italian fare, reflecting the origins of the owners
from CA$338 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Kurulu Bay

Koggala (Sri Lanka)

A beautiful 14-bedroom hideaway with cottages, a villa & treehouses in verdant gardens on Koggala Lake. Expect minimalist spaces with stacks of tropical modernist style, a rejuvenating spa and striking yoga shala, plus a gourmet restaurant showcasing seasons produce. Exceptional elegance.

  • Spa breaks - A beautiful hideaway for rejuvenating retreats, with a soothing spa and frangipani-framed yoga shala
  • Yoga - Enjoy daily sunrise and/or sunset yoga sessions at the yoga shala, framed by frangipani trees
  • Honeymoons - Romantics will adore the chic, minimalist cottages, the tranquil feel and the gourmet fare
  • Birdwatching - Spot endemic birds flitting between the treetops of the gardens, or on the lake
from CA$425 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms

Written by Saskia Walker

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