Where to stay in Ahangama: The Best Luxe Villas, Bohemian Hotels and Surf Hostels
From the sun-kissed coast to the lush inland jungles, this where to stay in Ahangama, including recommendations on the best hotels, hostels, villas and family-friendly options.
Sri Lanka’s latest bohemian surfers paradise, Ahangama is having a moment.
Home to a burgeoning boutique hotel scene, incredible restaurants & cafes, world-class bars, contemporary boutiques and lifestyle stores, and stunning beaches, Ahangama is forging a reputation as the home of slow, barefoot stays.
With this rise in popularity has come an influx of excellent accommodation options in town, catering for all types of travellers - from those who have seen the finest in barefoot luxury, to backpackers keen to get amongst the waves, on as little money as possible.
This where-to-stay in Ahangama guide aims to break down the best areas to stay within Ahangama, from the sun-kissed coast to the lush inland jungles, and provide recommendations on the best hotels, hostels, villas, and family-friendly options (we’re a family now, so this feels much needed!).
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AREA GUIDE + BEST HOTELS IN AHANGAMA
BEST AREA | Kabalana Beach, or inland
LUXURY HOTEL | Kurulu Bay
MID-RANGE | Panta Rei Resort
HOSTEL | Maria Bonita
FAMILY-FRIENDLY | The Mugatiya
THE BEST AREA TO STAY IN AHANGAMA
KABALANA
The large beach situated between Koggala and Ahangama, Kabalana is less developed than the town proper, however is home to some of the best surf breaks in the area, so a number of popular surf schools call this area home.
Expect a steady stream of sun-soaked surfers with boards under their arms. While the main street is not as buzzing as Ahangama town, there are still a number of incredible places to eat and hang out, including TRAX, Citra, and Sisters.
It’s around a 5 - 10 minute tuk-tuk ride from Ahangama town.
BEST OPTIONS | Casa Tikiri, Panta Rei Resort, Maria Bonita
AHANGAMA
The heart of Ahangama has gone from a sleepy seaside village to a hipster hotspot in a matter of years. The main stretch of road is now lined with local eateries, boutiques, and a growing number of hip cafes (CACTUS, Crust), bars (Hotel de Uncles, Ceylon Sliders) and design hotels. It’s also home to the best vibes, and it’s here that you’ll likely spend every evening watching the sunset, cocktail in hand.
The surrounding area is filled with renovated Art-Deco mansions, villas, bohemian hotels, and quaint homestays, and serves as an excellent base if you wish for easy access to vibes, surf breaks, and excellent accommodation.
BEST OPTIONS | Harding Boutique Hotel, Solas Surf
SION
Just beyond Ahangama Town is Sion, a quiet, leafy area named after a famous surf break.
Less developed than surrounding areas, its quieter beaches and fewer crowds provide a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere.
Renovated Art-Deco mansions and villas dot the jungle, and it’s home to our favourite cafe in the whole of Ahangama, The Kip (which incidentally also has amazing property.
BEST OPTIONS | Dreamsea Surf Camp, Makai Surf House
INLAND
If you’re looking for a quiet, secluded stay, we’d recommend looking inland, to the thick jungles, lush green paddy fields and cinnamon plantations that circle Ahangama.
This is where most 5* resorts and boutique villas are located, and it’s an ideal base for those looking to explore the countryside or combine beach time with something more serene.
BEST OPTIONS | Kurulu Bay, Black Honey
PLAN | Read our guide to Ahangama
WHERE TO STAY IN AHANGAMA | THE BEST LUXURY HOTELS
KURULU BAY
The sister of Galle Fort’s imperious Fort Printers, Kurulu Bay is our definition of barefoot luxury and is by far the most beautiful hotel in Ahangama.
Tucked away from the hustle of the southern coast highway, positioned on the gorgeous shores of Koggala Lake, Kurulu Bay blends contemporary design with the unspoiled beauty of Sri Lanka’s south coast.
There are a variety of rooms, 12 in total, all taking inspiration from Sri Lanka’s greatest architect, Geoffrey Bawa - think polished concrete, bespoke furniture and soft linens, but with 5* luxury in almost every corner. The pick of the bunch is the Treehouse, which provides excellent views over the lake and verdant surrounds.
The centrepoint of the property is the minimalist pool, surrounded by towering palms and jackfruit trees, and poolside terrace, where the excellent restaurant serves up a locally-inspired all-day menu.
There’s also an onsite spa, a yoga shala, daily excursions to Koggala Lake and beyond, and complete and utter serenity to escape the hustle of day-to-day life.
Balancing luxury, design and nature, Kurulu Bay is the perfect retreat for discerning travellers.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$$
Amenities | Pool, on-site restaurant, spa, yoga shala, daily excursions
BOOK | Kurulu Bay
TREBARTHA EAST - THE ROUNDHOUSE
A relative newcomer to the fast-growing boutique hotel scene in Ahanagama, Trebartha East - The Roundhouse is one of the more unique, and impressive hotels in Sri Lanka.
Set atop a 12-acre cinnamon plantation, this astonishing, design-led hotel features 4 villas that offer 360-degree views of the lush south coast jungle, rice paddies, and the Indian Ocean.
The rooms resemble the most luxurious treehouse you could ever imagine - exposed beams, teak interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows, which blend harmoniously with custom-made furniture, handwoven rugs, and subtle art pieces.
The infinity pool might just be the most beautiful in Sri Lanka, while the on-site restaurant is inspired by local flavours and with sustainability in mind - the curries here are to die for.
With a focus on privacy and connection to the surrounding environment, Trebartha East is a once-in-a-lifetime stay.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$$
Amenities | Infinity pool, on-site restaurant
HARDING BOUTIQUE HOTEL
We’re not going to lie - when we first drove past Harding Boutique Hotel we couldn’t help but feel it jarred with the otherwise low-rise development on Sri Lanka’s southern coast (although this is changing, rapidly).
But as our stay at Ahangama wore on, we realised that the textured facade and subtle design elements actually lifted the surrounding area, and we began to appreciate the structure and its vertiginous presence.
Housing six boutique suites, which are tropical modernist in style and execution, Harding gives visitors to Ahangama what they desire - a front-row position to the best breaks on the southern coast.
Add in 5* luxury, a rooftop terrace in which to eat your morning egg hoppers and a private infinity pool, Harding Boutique Hotel is the perfect boutique stay for salt-haired surfers.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$$
Amenities | Rooftop terrace, private infinity pool, breakfast
BOOK | Harding Boutique Hotel
TRI LANKA BY AMAYA
Tri Lanka is: a destination within a destination.
Original owners, Rob Drummond and wife Lara Baumann Drummond bought the land in 2003, with a vision to transform this former cinnamon plantation into Sri Lanka’s first truly contemporary sustainable luxury design hotel.
Construction took two years, and the end result is the Tri of today: “a masterpiece of forward-thinking flair where mathematical marries artistic, and intelligence embraces emotion”. Proximity to nature is what underpins everything at Tri; from the construction of the resort & rooms to its food, the wellness sanctuary vibes to the activities on offer.
The rooms are minimalist, which only enhances the ‘back to nature’ vibe of the place, and one of the largest, comfiest beds we’ve had the pleasure of laying our heads on. There are no screens here, but more than enough beauty in the view outside your balcony to keep you entertained! We also loved the little touches, like the glass bottle of drinking water, lemongrass solid hand soap bar, and the jar of snacks that were refilled each day.
Spa treatments, Quantum Yoga sessions, and the tastiest of dining are just a few of Tri’s many, many perks - while the atmosphere is peaceful in a way that you feel like you’re walking through a constant meditation session.
This is the kind of place that attracts certain types of travellers; those looking for digital detox and inspiration will find themselves rejuvenated.
Couples seeking romance will discover a tranquil hideaway. Nature lovers will find the hotel’s wildlife-filled location awe-inspiring.
No matter what brings you here, to begin with, there’s no doubt that this is an ultra-inspiring setting for the mind, body, and soul.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$$
Amenities | Infinity pool, on-site restaurant, games room, library, daily excursions
REVIEW | Read our comprehensive review of Tri Lanka
BOOK | Tri by Amaya
UYANA BOUTIQUE HOTEL | ADULTS ONLY
The elephant in the room is that Ayuna Boutique Hotel is for adults only.
Which is great for adults. But for kids, not so much.
Thankfully, Ahangama is filled with family-friendly hotels (more on them below), so the adults can have their boutique bliss.
Uyana is set inland, on a large coconut grove just a short walk to Koggala Lake - which means quiet solitude is the name of the game here.
Four large, light-filled rooms feature contemporary fittings, high-end amenities and access to the communal lounge area. As with most properties in Sri Lanka, the highlight is the large, infinity pool which floats towards the surrounding rice paddies.
Breakfast is included, while an on-site restaurant serves food throughout the day.
Close to surf breaks and cultural landmarks, Uyana is an idyllic base for exploring Ahangama beaches and cafe scene, or simply relaxing in sophisticated luxury.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$$
Amenities | Infinity pool, breakfast
BOOK | Ayuna Boutique Hotel
CASA TIKIRI | ADULTS ONLY
One of the things we love about Sri Lanka is the colour and life that exists in the in-between moments, and in stark contrast to many of the tropical minimalist properties listed above, Casa Tikiri embraces colour.
Each room is an explosion of Frida Kahlo tones, and colour forms the common thread that unites all the rooms of this unique boutique hotel. Materials, fabrics and furnishings used have been seamlessly integrated with each other, elevating Casa Tikiri beyond the aforementioned hotels.
With five rooms and two suites in total, Casa Tikiri is small, intimate and perfect for those who like barefoot luxury with a twist.
The onsite pool, Italian-inspired restaurant, and sprawling gardens add to the appeal. As does the proximity to our favourite beach in Ahangama - Kabalana.
Interested? Just look for the pink gate (but definitely book in advance below!).
THE DETAILS
Price | $$$
Amenities | Pool, Italian-inspired restaurant, gardens
BOOK | Casa Tikiri
WHERE TO STAY IN AHANGAMA | THE BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS
PANTA REI RESORT
Set amongst the towering palms a short tuk-tuk ride from the golden sands of Kabalana Beach, Panta Rei Resort is the perfect boutique resort for those wanting a little luxury, without the hefty price tag.
The resort features 12 bungalows with differing setups, inspired by the boho-minimalism of Bali or Mexico. The rooms are huge, and feature ample storage, perfect if you’re looking somewhere to spend more than a week.
Additionally, there’s a family villa offering two large bedrooms - perfect if you’re like us and want contemporary luxury, with kids in tow.
Then there’s the large, inviting central pool and leafy communal area, which features a restaurant and bar serving excellent food and cocktails.
This is probably the most family-friendly resort on this list, so book away if you’re bringing the family to Sri Lanka.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$
Amenities | Pool, communal area, on-site restaurant, family-friendly
BOOK | Panta Rei Resort
SWALLOW VILLA | ADULTS ONLY
Tucked away from the bustle of Ahangama’s main thoroughfare, Swallow Villa feels like you’re staying with old friends in their wonderfully curated Sri Lankan home (if they were our friends, we’d be super jealous!).
The modest facade hides an oasis of calm and a number of inviting bohemian-style rooms framed by tropical greenery. With four-poster beds, an ensuite bathroom, detailed tiling, and Stick No Bills artwork on the walls, the rooms are warm, inviting and unpretentious.
Breakfast is served on the verandah, a medley of fresh fruit, fragrant curries, and strong local coffee - the perfect prelude to a day exploring Ahangama’s laid-back surf scene or lounging on its nearby golden beaches.
It’s not luxury, but that’s the point. Swallow French Guest House invites you to slow down, savour the moment, and embrace Ahangama’s unhurried pace.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$
Amenities | Breakfast
BOOK | Swallow Villa
BLACK HONEY
Ahangama is having a moment, led by a wave of Sri Lankan and foreign creatives pushing the boundaries of what barefoot luxury is.
Inspired by tropical hotspots Tulum and Canggu, Black Honey offers colourful yet minimalist rooms with everything you need for a chilled stay on the salty southern coast.
Each studio has a private kitchenette, a balcony overlooking the surrounding jungle and rice fields, and access to the communal rooftop and pool.
The boutique hotel also houses one of the cooler cafes in town, serving specialty coffee, brunch and lunch, best enjoyed by the pool or lounges.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$
Amenities | Communal rooftop, pool and excellent cafe
BOOK | Black Honey
SURF STATION HOTEL
One of Ahangama’s OG hotels, Surf Station has seen it all, watching the town move from a sleepy surfing hotspot to a Shoreditch-inspired bohemian hotspot.
So you’ll need to forgive it for feeling a little dated. The rooms are neat, tidy and serviceable, and the pool is not as luxe as similar hotels in the area, BUT, the hotel is right on the beach, and the views from each ocean-facing room to die for. You win some, you lose some.
And that’s why we’ve included the hotel on our list - it’s affordable, does the job, but is right in the heart of the action, especially for surfers.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$
Amenities | Pool, and beach access
BOOK | Surf Station
SOLAS SURF
A surf & yoga retreat set right on Ahangama’s beautiful Kabalana Beach, Solas Surf is the perfect option for those looking to embrace the slow, laidback, tropical flow of Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
With just a handful of rooms, Solas manages to strike an intimate balance between comfort and beachy bohemian charm, which we love.
Each room opens to greenery, with large windows letting in heaps of natural light, while the decor mimics the chic simplicity of Ahangama.
There’s a communal vibe at the heart of everything at Solas, including a pool, garden area overlooking Kabalana Beach, communal spaces, restaurant, and group activities, including surf classes and yoga.
But the highlight is the surf-centric ethos. With lessons on offer and access to some of the region's finest swells, it caters to all skill levels.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$
Amenities | Pool, direct access to Kabalana, restaurant, and group activities
BOOK | Solas Surf
DREAMSEA SURFCAMP
Days at Dreamsea Surf Camp revolve around the rhythm of the ocean.
One of the OG surf camp providers, the Ahangama offshoot is everything you’d expect - affordable barefoot luxury with an adventurous surf lifestyle.
The elevated bohemian-style rooms are simple, stylish and perfect for a laidback surf sabbatical. With a mix of private and shared accommodation, each room overlooks the Indian Ocean, and the delightful sunken pool, which will become your hangout during your stay.
What’s more, the hotel has direct access to Ahangama Beach and our favourite bars/restaurants including Cactus, Ceylon Sliders and Hotel de Uncles.
But it’s all about the surf here, and expert-led surf lessons cater to beginners and seasoned surfers, and provide insider intel on the best breaks on the southern coast. Additionally, there are rooftop yoga sessions to stretch out pre/post-surf.
One of the more popular stays in Ahangama, we suggest booking Dreamsea well in advance.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$
Amenities | On-site restaurant, pool, beach access, yoga sessions
BOOK | Dreamsea Surf Camp
WHERE TO STAY IN AHANGAMA | THE BEST BUDGET HOTELS + HOSTELS
MARIA BONITA
A hidden gem in Ahangama, Maria Bonita shows that despite the town’s burgeoning popularity, it is possible to find an affordable, quaint hotel that feels like a home away from home.
Located perfectly in between Kabalana Beach and Ahangama town, the rooms are beautifully decorated, blending tropical charm with a bohemian vibe. While there isn’t a pool, two of the better beaches are just a short tuk-tuk ride away.
In addition to the vibes, surfers will love the proximity to famous local breaks such as “Gasstation” and “Cove,” just a short paddle away.
Christina, the warm and attentive owner, along with her exceptional team, goes above and beyond. From scooter rentals to arranging transport and serving divine banana bread and smoothie bowls, their hospitality is unmatched.
THE DETAILS
Price | $
BOOK | Maria Bonita
MELLOW HOSTEL
Mellow Hostel captures the essence of backpacker life on Sri Lanka’s southern coast - the vibes are chilled, the accommodation is no frills, and the surf is never too far away.
Located opposite Kabalana Beach, the position couldn't be better for surfers.
The vibe of Mellow’s is easygoing yet intentional. The rooms are clean with natural finishes providing just the right amount of comfort, while the communal spaces and open garden allow the perfect chillout place to chat with fellow travellers.
There’s also an onsite café, which offers up a local twist on Turkish Mediterranean flavours, with the addition of delicious smoothies.
While nothing spectacular, Mellow Hostel feels like a home away from home - simple and welcoming.
THE DETAILS
Price | $
Amenities | Communal spaces, on-site restaurant
BOOK | Mellow Hostel
MAKAI SURF HOUSE
Makai Surf House might just be the best affordable stay in Ahangama.
Located in the quiet, leafy streets beyond Ahangama town, Makai offers a mix of private and dorm rooms, all of which are clean, spacious and well-appointed. The private deluxe and standard rooms are exceptional value - the rooms are huge, the beds comfy, and each comes with with private ensuite and natural finishes.
There are big ‘home away from home’ vibes here - it’s welcoming and intimate, and the owners and staff make the stay here worthwhile.
The green outdoor space has chill-out zones with hammocks and cozy seating, and there’s a communal dining table which often becomes the heart of your stay here.
Some of our favourite beaches (secret beach) and cafes are nearby (The Kip), so if you’re after a relaxing, more sedate hostel experience, Makai is the perfect place.
THE DETAILS
Price | $
Amenities | Chill out zones, hammocks
BOOK | Makai Surf House
RASARA HOMESTAY
During our first-ever visit to Sri Lanka, the majority of our accommodation was homestays, and we loved it. As the country has grown in popularity though, homestays have fallen away, with travellers seeking the more boutique, bohemian hotels along the coast.
But, if you want a thoroughly authentic experience, we highly recommend Rasara Home Stay.
Set in a lush garden, the property is an oasis of calm while remaining close to the beach and the Ahangama ‘scene’. The single studio is clean, spacious, and comfortable, and features a small kitchen ensuite.
But what truly sets Rasara Home Stay apart is the hospitality of Bimba and her family. If you stay here, you’ll feel part of the family, and that’s rare in this era of travel.
In addition, the Sri Lankan breakfast is amazing. And for those interested, Bimba even offers cooking lessons to share her culinary expertise.
A stay here isn’t just accommodation, it’s about cherishing personal experiences.
THE DETAILS
Price | $
BOOK | Rasara Home Stay
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN AHANGAMA
THE MUGATIYA
A historic villa and former home of the village chief, surrounded by lush jungles just a short walk from Ahangama, The Mugatiya is one of the most beautiful villas in town.
But what sets The Mugatiya apart is its family-friendly offerings, which include connecting rooms to make a family suite, common spaces including living, dining, kitchenette and games room, a large pool, and vast grounds in which kids can play and explore.
Nearby are all of Ahangama’s famed eateries, including our favourite, The Kip, while the effortless charm of Galle Fort is only 25 minutes away via tuk-tuk.
Moreover, The Mugatiya is strongly committed to sustainability and responsible tourism.
All in all, the perfect place to spend time with the family.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$$
Amenities | Private pool, kitchenette, games room, lounge
BOOK | The Mugatiya
COCONUT GROVE
The Art Deco movement is strong in this part of Sri Lanka, and Coconut Grove Villa might be the most beautiful iteration on the South Coast.
The villa has been beautifully restored, with high ceilings, antique furniture, a large open floor plan, huge bay windows, polished terrazzo floors and modern touches throughout, making it the perfect home away from home in Sri Lanka.
The villa has four large bedrooms all with ensuites and A/C, while three have open-air showers, and also includes a fully equipped kitchen, dining and lounge areas, and a beautiful infinity pool - perfect for families wanting to be close together.
Similar to the Mugatiya, nearby are all of Ahangama’s best restaurants, cafes, bars and a short walk to the best beaches in the area.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$$
Amenities | Private pool, fully equipped kitchen, lounge
BOOK | Coconut Grove Villa
KARMEL THALDUWA VILLA
Set inland, on the small islet of Thalduwa is another glorious Art Deco-style villa, Karmel.
Family-friendly in size and amenities, Karmel Villa Thalduwa can be configured for 6, 8 or 10 people, meaning a larger family or multiple families can share the space. Inside, the rooms are large with ensuite bathrooms, and the vast common area houses a huge sofa and TV for downtime.
Set amongst the lush gardens with views of the river, the inviting pool is where the magic happens. There’s also a summer pavilion to spend evenings enjoying and meal or drink.
While the location is a little further than most to Ahangama’s thriving food and drink scene, it’s the proximity to nature and the quiet surroundings that make Karmel Villa stand out.
THE DETAILS
Price | $$$
Amenities | Family-friendly, private pool, kitchenette, lounge, outdoor pavilion
BOOK | Karmel Villa Thalduwa
GOOD STORY VILLAGE
As much as we love Ahangama, there is an element of gentrification, or ‘bali-fication’ of the surrounds, and we’re reluctant to share too many places that don’t align with our values, or that seem like property cash grabs from foreigners.
Good Story Village is a set of 11 villas, each with its own amenities including a kitchenette, lounge area, and private pool. It all sounds very Canggu, so we were a little reluctant to share it as part of our guide, however, they do serve a purpose, especially the two-bed and three-bed options, for families looking for a base on the southern coast.
Don’t expect too much though - the villas are clean and minimal, but rather basic in design. Fortunately, it’s close to town, markets and the famed beach of Kabalana.
THE DETAILS
Price | $
Amenities | Family villas, private pool, kitchenette, lounge
BOOK | Good Story Village
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO AHANGAMA
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT AHANGAMA
The best time to visit Ahangama is anytime from October - April, as the monsoon rains have passed and the temperatures are fairly stable. This is also the best time to surf.
That being said, the absolute BEST time to visit is between January - March, when low rainfall and calmer seas provide the perfect weather to explore or learn to surf.
We’ve been told to avoid visiting during the wet season, when the town shuts down for the season, and the surf is average. Some places will remain open, but it’ll be quiet, wet and lack any sort of vibe.
If you’re travelling to Sri Lanka during this period, head towards Arugam Bay instead.
READ MORE | Essential Sri Lanka travel tips
HOW TO GET TO AHANGAMA
TAXI / PRIVATE CAR
By far the quickest and most comfortable option, taking a taxi or private transfer to Ahangama will save you time, but cost a lot more than other options. If your budget permits, we suggest taking a taxi (we did this on our most recent trip and it was wonderful).
THE DETAILS
Cost | LKR 30,000 (AUD $150, USD $80)
TRAIN
As mentioned above, the most scenic way to get from Colombo or Galle to Ahangama is via train to Ahangama Station.
The train, which runs along the palm-fringed coast for the majority of the journey, is one of the best in Sri Lanka.
The Colombo Fort to Southern Coast trains depart 7 times a day (less on weekends), with the earliest departure at 6:55 am and the final departure at 18:05. It takes around 1.5 hours. We recommend travelling outside of peak hours to avoid packed trains and an uncomfortable journey (we’ve taken the 10:30 am train many times without issue).
We highly recommend you book your tickets in advance, which you can do here.
THE DETAILS
Cost | LKR 260 per person for 2nd class, LKR 145 per person for 3rd class
Departure Times | From Colombo Fort to Ahangama: commence 0655, 0835, 1030, 1425, 1550, 1646, 1730, 1735, 1805
BOOK | Book your Sri Lanka train tickets here
BUS
Local buses depart Colombo Fort to Galle every 15 minutes throughout the day and take around 2.5 hrs depending on traffic. Local buses tend to be busy, crazy and chaotic, but ultimately, super fun and cheap. From Galle bus station, take a 30-minute tuk to Ahangama, or another local bus along the coast.
Alternatively, you can take a private bus to either Galle or Matara and then a tuk-tuk from either destination. The A/C bus departs from Kudawela bus station in Colombo’s east and follows the newly completed inland highway. You’re guaranteed a seat, and the air-conditioning is a welcome relief in Sri Lanka.
THE DETAILS
Cost | LKR 350 - LKR 400 per person
Departure Times | Every 15 minutes from 5 am
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL IN SRI LANKA
Responsible, sustainable travel is what we’re all about here at TCW HQ, and this is especially true when we travel to places suffering from climate change and plastic pollution, such as Sri Lanka.
TRAVEL DURING SHOULDER SEASON | Shoulder season is the time before and after the peak season when things are quieter, cheaper, and more enjoyable. Travel then to reduce over-tourism, and extend the season for local operators
DON’T BUY BOTTLED DRINKS | Please, for the love of the ocean: DO NOT BUY SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BOTTLES! You'll understand why when you see a bunch of plastic bottles bob past you in the open sea. Buy one of these fantastic bottles instead
USE LESS WATER | To help reduce the pressure on water supplies, keep your water usage to a minimum. We know that’s hard to do on holidays, but quick showers, and turning the tap off when brushing your teeth, cleaning etc. help
OCEAN-FRIENDLY TOILETRIES | Everything that goes down the boat drain ends up in the ocean, try and make sure all your toiletries, sunscreen, and shampoo is as ocean-friendly as possible! Solid bars are a great place to start (see below to buy some eco-friendly toiletries).
DON’T USE PLASTIC BAGS | Pack a reusable tote and use these to carry your snacks, drinks, or new souvenirs instead
LEAVE NO TRACE | Limit your consumption of plastic, and opt for sustainable / zero-waste alternatives instead. Pack a reusable water bottle, bring your reusable coffee cup, and if you can’t sip your cocktails without a straw, bring a metal or bamboo one along instead. And never leave a trace...
BE ANIMAL-FRIENDLY | Observe sea creatures from a distance, don’t pick up wildlife like starfish or urchins, or grab onto turtles, dolphins, etc. If an animal wants to interact with you, it’ll approach you 🙂
SUPPORT THE LOCAL COMMUNITY | Visit a locally owned restaurant for a meal, which means both supporting the local economy and community and also giving you a real authentic experience.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN SRI LANKA
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
Here are our recommendations, based on 8+ years of full-time travel:
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*The Common Wanderer readers get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
FOR DIGITAL NOMADS | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
CAR INSURANCE | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF SRI LANKA
SRI LANKA TRAVEL TIPS | 31 incredible things to do in Sri Lanka, Our essential 3-week Sri Lanka Itinerary, Our 7-day Sri Lanka Itinerary, Everything you need to know before you visit Sri Lanka (39 essential tips!), Where to stay in Galle
SRI LANKA CITY GUIDES | We’ve got in-depth guides to Colombo, Galle, Kandy, Jaffna, Hiriketiya, Mirissa Beach
CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS | Our essential guides to both Sigiriya and Pidurangala, A guide to Polonnaruwa, How to visit Yala National Park, and Udawalawe National Park
TRANSPORT GUIDES | Our definitive guide to the Kandy to Ella train, how to get from Colombo to Kandy, how to get from Colombo to Galle
ELLA, SRI LANKA | Our complete guide to Ella, a guide to the Nine Arch Bridge, How to see Diyaluma Falls, Ella accommodation options for every budget (+ our recommendations)
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Read our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
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