Family-friendly hotels abound in Sri Lanka, where little ones can race along vast sandy beaches, spot elephants and leopards on Jeep safaris, or splash around in swimming pools surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Teens will love learning to surf on the trendy south coast, or hiking to dramatic viewpoints up in the hills. You'll find that Sri Lankans adore children, making this is a magical destination for holidays with little ones. Expect to feel very welcome at beach resorts and boutique boltholes alike. Our selection of the best family friendly hotels in Sri Lanka are scattered across the island, but you can expect to find the liveliest vibe on the popular south coast, a more tranquil experience in the outdoorsy retreats of the hills, and a real sense of escapism on the remote east coast. Combine them all for a well-rounded flavour of the teardrop island!

9 Family-Friendly Hotels in Sri Lanka

For Boutique Chic

• Why House, in lovely Mihiripenna, is a wonderful boutique hotel with 10 guest bedrooms set within lush tropical gardens. Additional cots and twin beds make this a great spot for families, who will adore the gardens, big pool and the friendly team — including playful dachshund Violet. Manager Hen is full of local recommendations & hosts fabulous events at the hotel. The sheltered lagoon of nearby Dalawella beach is brilliant for little ones to swim with turtles.
• Halcyon Mawella is another 10-bedroom boutique spot, this time overlooking the ocean close to Tangalle. Two of the design-led rooms are specifically for families, and all are mere metres from the pool. Step straight onto enormous Mawella beach for seaside strolls & beach games, ride boogie boards in the waves, kayak on the nearby lake or take sailing lessons (rare in Sri Lanka!). Ideal for families with older kids or teenagers.

For Nature Lovers

• Banyan Camp is a simple lodge on 15 acres of wilderness bordering tranquil Lake Hambegamuwa. Wattle and daub lodges with two double beds are great for families, who can take narrow canoe trips on the lake with families, enjoy river swims and picnics, or spot larger wildlife on Jeep safaris in the Udawalawe National Park. There are board games in the main lodge, and monkeys swinging through the trees. Created by keen wildlife enthusiasts for wild, back-to-basics bliss.
• Ulagalla Resort, just 30 minutes from Anuradhapura, has 25 sumptuous villas with plunge pools. The largest has two bedrooms and bathrooms, but one-bedroom options can be adapted for young families, too. Zip around the 58 acres of grounds by bicycle, and enjoy horse riding, cooking classes and guided nature walks with the hotel's rangers. Eager wildlife aficionados will adore the Junior Ranger workshops, and the hotel's conservation efforts are a wonderful learning opportunity.

For a Seaside Resort

• Jetwing Lighthouse, just outside Galle, is a striking seaside hotel designed by acclaimed architect Geoffrey Bawa. Spacious rooms and suites offer family options, and there's a dedicated kids' pool as well as a tennis court. Expect children's menus at the main restaurant, a great pizzeria and grassy gardens to explore. Galle Fort is ten minutes away, for rampart strolls and ice cream with the whole family.
• Cape Weligama promises absolute luxury on a craggy headland overlooking enormous Weligama Bay. Multi-bedroom villas with private pools will delight families, as will the plethora of activities — from kayaking to outdoor cinema nights. Weligama is a top spot for learning to surf, too. Five-star style for all ages.
• Karpaha Sands, on Sri Lanka's little-visited east coast, is well worth the longer journey. Unwind in tented suites, the largest of which sleep up to five guests in two bedrooms, connected by a spacious sitting room. Play games on the huge quiet beach, sink into the pool, or hide away in the games room in the late afternoon. Don't miss gazing up at the stars from the beanbags in your villa's garden.

For a Hideaway in the Hills

• Living Heritage Koslanda boasts one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful infinity pools. It also has indulgent villa suites and forest pavilions set amidst vast, verdant grounds. Villa Suites sleep four guests, and are just steps from the restaurant where Sri Lankan and Western dishes can be savoured. Walk to the waterfall for refreshing swims, take cooking classes and roast marshmallows under the stars.
• Taylor's Hill is a five-bedroom escape for active families in the hills. South of Kandy, this was once a retreat frequented be tea planter James Taylor and his friends. Book a suite with space for up to four guests, and spend your days playing tennis, croquet and badminton in the gardens, hiking through the tea fields or splashing around in the pool. Quiet and remote but with stacks of outdoor activities.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Alternatively, check out our list of 9 of the Best Wildlife Hotels in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

 

Written by Saskia Walker

posted Monday, 15th April 2024