A small town on Sri Lanka’s superb south coast, Koggala remains relatively unexplored — in comparison to nearby holiday hotspots — and promises a wonderfully relaxing tropical stay. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, including family-run guesthouses and hotels to suit all budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Koggala includes several of our tried-and-tested favourites, a collection of beautiful hotels for young families, seasoned spa devotees and honeymoon couples keen to hide away in luxurious seclusion.
Calm and quiet, Koggala is also brilliantly located. The buzzing surf beaches of Kabalana and Ahangama are just three miles away, ideal for lessons or surfboard hire, as well as beach bars and cafés aplenty. Historic Galle Fort, on the other hand, is 10 miles to the west, full of charming boutiques and restaurants.
Highlights of Koggala itself include Koggala Lake, highly recommended for boat safaris, and the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Art Museum, centred upon the life of the famed Sri Lankan novelist. Koggala is also well-known for the traditional stilt fishermen who occupy its shallow coastal waters.
The best places to stay in Koggala are beautifully designed havens — you may find yourself feeling far too content soaking up the sunshine poolside or tasting terrific seafood to go anywhere else! Do try to book well in advance if travelling during the high season as these places fill up fast.
