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Writer's pictureKatarina Zlatkovic

Top 5 Boutique Hotels in Southern Sri Lanka

Updated: Sep 17, 2023

Ayubowan! This means welcome or greetings in Sinhala which is one of the two official languages of beautiful country of Sri Lanka!


Now, everyone who knows me knows my obsession for this tropical island. I have visited Sri Lanka 4 times already and I am not planning to give it a break.


I have stayed in a lot of Airbnb's, Hotels and Boutique Hotels but in this post, I'd like to highlight a few Boutique Accommodations that captured my heart.


Each one of these are embodying the essence of Sri Lankan hospitality and are providing a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveler.


Let's go!



Palm Hotel Sri Lanka

A short or long stay in a palm hotel in Sri Lanka is an incredible experience that offers relaxation and tropical bliss. Hidden in a jungle, this boutique hotel will surprise you with its incredible design.


Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by the swaying palm trees and a gentle breeze that instantly transports you to paradise. The scene is so serene, people relaxing by the pool, laid back music in the background, coconut trees and doggies playing with the guests. 🥰


The hotel's inviting rooms are adorned with vibrant décor, offering a comfortable sanctuary for your stay. There are 6 cabanas and 2 deluxe suits at the hotel.


Dog relaxing by the pool

What I loved the most was the outdoor bathroom. There is something so special about taking a shower after a long day on the beach, while listening to birds and looking at the pastel-colored sunset.


Outdoor Bathroom Goals

Hotel offers dining and bar that is open for the guests but also for the visitors who are not staying in the hotel to dine in.🦐 Food is incredibly tasty and fresh!


Delicious breakfast

There is a small shop inside the hotel selling their own skincare products as well as clothing and that reminds me of the toiletries this hotel provides in the rooms.

It has an exceptional, earthy scent and there is even a mosquito repellent lotion! 🌺


Booking a massage, yoga class or gym is optional, so if you have time, give it a try. 🧘🏻‍♀️


Every room has a small guide of the great places to visit, dine and activities in Ahangama.


Cozy cabana in nature

Beach is 10 minutes away and the best way to reach there is by Tuk Tuk or a scooter, and these are always available at the hotel. 🌊


You won't regret booking a stay in a Palm hotel because it will leave you rejuvenated and filled with awesome memories of Sri Lanka's natural beauty.



Nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Site Galle Fort, this boutique gem beautifully combines colonial elegance with modern sophistication.


Hotel In Galle Sri Lanka

The narrow and charming streets of the Fort are lined with colonial buildings, each with a unique history. Dating back to the 18th century, the Printers building has over the years served as a college, later the home of a traditional Sri Lankan printing company. 🎓


Hotel offers 5 spacious rooms and 11 suites designed to leave you speechless.


Fort Printers Sri Lanka Hotel

There is a pool where you can unwind after the long walks around the Fort and a restaurant/bar that gives minimalistic yet luxurious touch to the hotel itself.


Aesthetic pool

Every corner is so picturesque with carefully chosen furniture and historical details. It will truly transport you back in time. 🕰


Historical building and hotel in Galle

Staff is attentive and warm, and very knowledgeable about the history of the hotel and the Galle Fort in general so don't hesitate to ask questions. 🥰


The hotel is in a great location that allows you to explore iconic landmarks and famous sights. Plenty of jewelry stores, small shops with handmade goods and restaurants that are mix of old-fashioned and modern style.


Sri Lankan Curry with a view

Trust me when I say that staying in Fort Printers was one of the best Boutique Hotels I ever stayed in and would recommend it to anyone visiting Southern Sri Lanka.



Another gem near Galle is this stunning private hotel that is positioned on a quiet stretch of natural beachfront and is located only 10 minutes of the historic Galle Fort and 15 minutes of the surfing village of Hikkaduwa.


Arabella on Boossa hotel

The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated.


There is Netflix available, water bottles by the bed, linen robes, cozy sheets and magazines. What else would you wish for?


Bathroom is exceptional with minimal decor, lavender like skin care and tools like hair straightener and beach bags. 🙌


Arabella On Boossa offers a tranquil and idyllic retreat where you can relax by the pool or beach, and towels and sunbeds are provided as well. 🌊


Pool view in Arabella on Boossa

This hotel has a bar and restaurant that is open until 9 PM if I am not mistaken. Food is fresh and delicious, and the menu changes seasonally. 🍍


Shrimp Tacos in Arabella on Boossa
fresh fruit platter

Every single dish is so well thought out and if I can recommend a must try that would definitely be traditional Sri Lankan breakfast.


Enjoy the sound of gentle waves lapping the shore by curling up on one of lounge areas with sofas, tv and mini library to relax, read and disconnect.


Relaxing afternoon

Arabella On Boossa team will ensure your every need is met, feel free to ask them for transportation options from and to the airport.


Whether you want to relax or have fun exploring, Arabella on Boossa is a great choice for a memorable stay in the south of Sri Lanka.



Located in Tangalle, this boutique retreat is a real slice of paradise for those seeking peaceful and idyllic vacation.


You can choose from one of the 6 individually designed bungalows/rooms and truly rejuvenate your mind and body in this serene sanctuary.


kirinuga hotel sri lanka

You will love waking up by the sound of birds and having the most phenomenal breakfast by being surrounded by the lush green coconut trees. 🌴


The beach is nearby, just a short walk from the retreat. My favorite one is Silent Beach as it is not super touristy, however, you'll need a short Tuk Tuk ride to get there.


Kirinuga offers a variety of wellness and spa experiences from Ayurvedic treatments and therapeutic massages to yoga and surf classes.


peaceful cabana in nature

Locally inspired cuisine is a must try at Kirinuga: fresh seafood, farm to table ingredients and aromatic spices will win you over.


traditional sri lankan sea food

For those seeking adventure, the retreat can arrange excursions such as snorkeling, diving or exploring Yala National Park. 🐘


monkeys playing in the wild

Tangalle is overall a beautiful city, so you'll have a lot of things to do and see while staying in Kirinuga.


I have visited this gem twice and both times I was having the best time of my life.


kirinuga boutique retreat sri lanka


Surf lovers, this one is for you! 🏄


Just a few steps away from the ocean, this wild oasis is inviting you to experience a unique blend that combines surf, wellbeing, local culture and nature.


coconut water sri lanka

One of the highlights of staying in Global Surf Camp is the vibrant and inclusive community that is open to connect, share stories, tips and experiences around the surfing topic, so if surfing is something you are trying for the very first time, don't worry, you are not alone.


Stay in one of the 12 well-designed rooms and let the sound of waves crashing the shore wake you up.


global surf lodge kabalana sri lanka

The laid-back atmosphere creates a cozy haven to relax after a long day at the beach.


There is a nice pool and lounge area where the lodge sometimes organizes bonfires, movie nights and social events. 🎬


relaxing and cozy afternoon

Staff is incredibly helpful providing great tips and tricks on what to do and try in nearby villages, markets and temples.


Whether you are a season surfer or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, Global Surf Lodge Kabalana will provide you with an unforgettable surfing experience and memories for life.


surf boards sri lanka

That's it guys!


Is there any of these ones you'd like to stay in?


Let me know if you have any questions on Top 5 Boutique Hotels in Sri Lanka's South Coast! 💕


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2 Comments


kichuna112
Aug 01, 2023

this helps us people with anxiety when trying to find a good place to stay in a country you haven’t been to but dream of going. thank you Kat will definitely take your recommendations

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Katarina Zlatkovic
Katarina Zlatkovic
Aug 02, 2023
Replying to

Oh these words mean a lot to me! Thank you! I hope soon you will visit the most charming island of all, Sri Lanka 🌴

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