“A gorgeous beach pad on picturesque Mawella Bay, Halcyon is a real gem for couples, friends or families looking to unwind in blissful surroundings. The friendly team and impeccable design make this place particularly special. ”

Hotel review

Peeking at the Indian Ocean from behind lush vegetation, Halcyon's lovely iluk roofs hide ten unique guestrooms. Dusky pink or blue-painted antique doors reveal big cosy beds topped with handwoven quilts, bright armchairs form inviting reading nooks and floors feature bespoke tiles inspired by the seaside. Created in collaboration with Sri Lanka-based British designer Lindsay Taylor, the eight doubles and two family suites are nothing short of fabulous.

Climb the bar’s dramatic curved and mirrored staircase to sink into a comfortable cane chair, cocktail in hand, or gaze out to sea as you tuck into superb seafood laksa at the chic pan-Asian restaurant. Days are spent lounging by the pool in the sunshine, kayaking around Mawella Lagoon, or kicking back on your private terrace. Add a wonderfully warm and welcoming team into the mix, and you won't want to leave.

Saskia Walker
Saskia Walker Review published: 11/09/2024

Recommended for

  • Kayaking

    • Spot bats and nibble lotus seeds on a guided kayaking tour of Mawella Lagoon, or try sea kayaking right in front of the hotel
  • Birdwatching

    • Drift through Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary on a guided raft excursion, spotting a fantastic array of birdlife
  • Romantic Break

    • Couples can hide away in beautifully designed rooms, relax on private terraces & sip cocktails at the bar
  • Families

    • Families will adore the relaxed, friendly feel, the swimming pool & the flexible room options
  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the intriguing ancient Mulgirigala Rock Monastery or the Weherahena Buddhist Temple
  • Designer

    • Designer Lindsay Taylor of Tallentire House worked with the team during the build, creating bespoke pieces & collecting curios
  • Restaurant

    • The fabulous poolside restaurant has a pan-Asian menu, and offers a great choice of Sri Lankan & Western breakfasts
  • Eco

    • Eco-conscious practices include avoiding single-use plastic, organising beach clean-ups & sourcing food locally
  • Other Activities

    • Head to lively Hiriketiya Bay for great food, surf and parties in the high season
  • Great walks

    • Enjoy long walks along Mawella Beach, watching the fisherman haul in their catch
  • Family Suites

    • Add an extra bed in one of the double rooms, or book one of two family suites
  • On the beach

    • Tucked behind the trees, Mawella Beach borders the hotel garden
  • Child friendly

    • Kids' menus are available
  • Yoga

  • Lively

  • Rooms with balcony/terrace

  • Owner managed

  • Snorkelling

  • Organic food

  • Barefoot Luxury

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Full of character

  • Good wine list

  • House party feel

  • Local markets

  • Boutique

  • Cycling

  • Chic

  • Antiques

  • Retro/Vintage

  • Rafting

  • Wildlife Area

  • Charming

  • Luxury

  • Four poster beds

  • Intimate

  • Romantic

  • Views

  • Secluded setting

  • Gourmet

Facilities

  • Rooms

    10 rooms in this hotel
  • Bar

    A wonderful place to chill out with a negroni or a glass of wine, the first-floor bar has a very cool vibe & great sea views
  • Restaurant

    The fabulous poolside restaurant has a pan-Asian menu, and offers a great choice of Sri Lankan & Western breakfasts
  • Family Suites

    Add an extra bed in one of the double rooms, or book one of two family suites
  • No pets

    There are two lovely, friendly dogs onsite
  • Child friendly

    Kids' menus are available
  • Safe

  • Laundry

  • Rooms with balcony/terrace

  • Airport transfer

  • Walking distance restaurants

  • Outdoor dining

  • Cots available

  • Massage

  • Good wine list

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Swimming Pool

  • Garden

  • Room service

  • Suites

  • Four poster beds

  • Wifi

  • Views

  • Air conditioning

  • Bath robes

  • Parking

Activities

  • Kayaking

    • Spot bats and nibble lotus seeds on a guided kayaking tour of Mawella Lagoon, or try sea kayaking right in front of the hotel
  • Birdwatching

    • Drift through Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary on a guided raft excursion, spotting a fantastic array of birdlife
  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the intriguing ancient Mulgirigala Rock Monastery or the Weherahena Buddhist Temple
  • Other Activities

    • Head to lively Hiriketiya Bay for great food, surf and parties in the high season
  • Great walks

    • Enjoy long walks along Mawella Beach, watching the fisherman haul in their catch
  • Local markets

  • Yoga

  • Snorkelling

  • Cycling

  • Rafting

  • Wildlife Area

Map & Location

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