The Sri Lankan east coast is the most untouched lands in the whole island due to the 30-year war that happened. But now its all doors are opened to you with their warmest welcome to enjoy the tranquil, soul-soothing scenery, culture and most hospitable gestures of people.
To enjoy your best days here, we invite you to visit them more in the dry season, between April to September. With fine weather which is hot and dry, and also the sea is at its calmest. Watersports in eastern coast are best in the dry season and some activities like coastal cruising and diving only operates May-September. As October-December Ocean can be slightly rough but is still swimmable.
We collected 13 reasons to Visit East Coast of Sri Lanka, including white sand beaches, undiscovered nature and water sports.
9 Best Resorts on Sri Lanka’s East Coast
Here are some of our best choices to make your stay more comfortable, luxurious and memorable.
- Jetwing Surf in Aurugam Bay
- Wild Glamping Gal Oya
- Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa in Pasiduka Beach
- Karpaha Sands in Kalkudah Beach
- Uga Jungle Beach near Trincomalee
- Trinco Blu by Cinnamon in Trincomalee
- J7 Villaj Resort in Trincomalee
- Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing in Arugam bay
- Giman Free Beach Resort near Mankerni
At the end of this guide, we added a handy map including all mentioned resorts as well as our tips for travelling Sri Lanka.
All our Sri Lanka Guides for you:
- best hostels in Sri Lanka
- Best things to do in Kandy
- SpinDrift Hostel in Weligama – a Hostel Haven
- Backpacking for Beginners – 10 common Mistakes to avoid
- 13 reasons to Visit East Coast of Sri Lanka
1. Jetwing Surf in Aurugam Bay
Based on the sands of Pottuvil, the best cabana hideaway is the Jetwing Surf. It lies with the view of world-renowned surfing site Arugum bay.
This resort is one of the coolest resorts I have ever stayed!
Owning nearly 20 of cabañas which made of wood, woven coconut palm leaves, coir and dried iluk leaves which are abundant to the east coastal area, they really standout in the panorama.
You can experience a totally unique vibe of dining with them, they have several options for you,
- Pool side dining – by the infinity pool which is the signature pool.
- Beach dining – want to have a meal by the sands of Pottuvil point? You can enjoy the elegance of the view and dine.
- BBQ dining – with a selection of grilled meats and of course a variety of eastern coast sea food.
- In-room dining – Dine on your own comfort of splendid luxurious cabanas.
What is the vacation without a little bit of fun and exercise?
You can find a variety of activities playing beach volley ball, boat safaris in Pottuvil lagoon and Urani river, cookery demonstrations, join fishing with locals, also you can visit gal oya, Lahugala and Kumana national parks which are rich in bio-diversity. Among all the most well-known activity of Arugam bay is surfing.
2. Wild Glamping Gal Oya
Sri Lanka’s indigenous population also known as “Veddas”, who are inhabited in close proximity to the famous resort of the historical village Rathugala, Wild Glamping Gal Oya.
They are giving a totally different adventurous stay for you here in their most unique camping tent models. With beds, solar lighting, AC facilities, a large semi open bathroom and also a large veranda they give the choice of double tents for two and family tents. And a pool site and dining restaurant with delicious Sri Lankan cuisines.
With the main theme of offering you the comfort of nature, you are blessed with the rare chance of experiencing the organic farming and culture of Sri Lanka. Also, you are just steps away from having the best cultural experience with the ancient tribe, Veddas.
3. Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa
You find Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa right on Pasikuda Beach holds a series of low-rise buildings with thatched roofs which are built with the inspiration of traditional fishing village also known as waadiya.
These chalet rooms are made of Cadjan roofs and wooden floor which adds more exquisite beauty to them.
The unique chalet rooms offer air-conditioning plus balconies, minifridges, tea and coffeemaking facilities, rainfall showers where some of the chalets have loft areas for kids, Jacuzzis, pools and steam rooms. Also, you can access free Wi-Fi throughout the resort premises.
When it comes to their dining options, they have
1. Karadiya
Which serves authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and letting you enjoy the exotic aromas and tastes of local dishes of the region.
2. Habala and ruwala
The most unique option at Maalu Maalu which standout among all the restaurants in the region is this amazing dining option. Two boats joined to be the restaurant area by the pool side is an amazing experience along with a pool bar too.
3. The white sands
This is the ideal experience if you are enjoying themed quiet dining.
4. Water Sport Activities
Snorkeling or scuba diving excursions to discover vibrant coral reefs & the ancient shipwrecks that are waiting to be explored.
Plus, banana boat rides, donut boat rides and snorkelling for children are a special option which you can experience not in many resorts.
If you are a more adventurous person you can take up diving, jet skiing, wind surfing, kayaking and snorkeling in shallow waters. Also, they provide experienced divers who are ready to give quick diving lessons for beginners.
If you an enthusiastic wanderer you should try cycling. Bicycles are provided upon the request so you can explore the beauty and enjoy the surrounding to hearts content.
For a nature lover the Minneriya National Park, which is home to some rare and endangered species of Sri Lanka’s wildlife will be a great experience.
4. Karpaha Sands in Kalkudah Beach
Being the only resort at the Kalkudah beach, with calm-horizon views and palm lands stands the luxurious 17 tented suites of Karpaha Sands.
Timber floors, honey-colored furnishings and king-sized beds (also suites can accommodate an extra single bed on request for kids), open-plan bathrooms with free-standing tubs and a private walled courtyard with a waterfall shower for open-air bathing are available with them.
Also with a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a shared lounge and garden with a playground, further more they provide 24-hour front desk support, a shuttle service, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
For dining the you can choose from the upper floor restaurant, in the privacy of your suite’s own terrace or perfect romantic dinner on the sand right on the beach.
To awaken your souls, you can bathe in the warm ocean, have bikes to explore the area which is really breath taking, enjoy the wonderful relaxation at twin-roomed spa, go kayaking and jet skiing, even enjoy a cooking session with the chefs.
And most importantly they provide a library full of travel photos and books when you feel like taking a break from all the beach bliss and the wandering you can lay yourself on a beanbag and enjoy your time in quietness.
5. Uga Jungle Beach near Trincomalee
In close proximity to Trincomalee city blending in with the green to its best, stands the resort of luxury: Uga Jungle Beach. This will be the perfect fit for many explorers who loves the nature to have a stay.
With the beach view, jungle view, and the lagoon view they have 49 chalets which are made embedding to its surrounding nature. They also have private pools which is really fascinating with its own flora.
As for dining they offers restaurant, in-door dining and even beach dining under a canopy of stars which indeed will be a splendid moment to have.
6. Trinco Blu by Cinnamon
From the name itself, the beachfront resort which is just few minutes away from the beach that is full of its aesthetic splendor and grand ambience is just more than the best a getaway can offer.
They are offering from beach chalets, suites to rooms to match your taste and serving you throughout the stay at whitewashed, blue-mosaicked atmosphere. Trinco (which is short for Trincomalee) is one of my favorite places in Sri Lanka for diving.
To give you a memorable dining experience, the Trinco Blu by Cinnamo offers:
- Rum Hold Bar
A semi-open bar overlooking the pool. - The Crab
Signature seafood restaurant which is with semi-open air and beach dining option. - Captain’s Deck
This is a semi-alfresco space that is with Sri Lankan and continental cuisine choices.
When it comes to the fun part. None would dare to miss the chance of watch dolphins and whales dip in and out of the blue waters.
Plus, there is always space for a ride in waves, snorkelling, scuba diving and even more boat rides. Also, you can enjoy the dipping to the traditional cuisine with the experts’ guide.
And why not a BBQ setup at the beach to risen your young night. More or less, it is always a good choice to have some calmness with the especial spa treatments.
7. J7 Villaj Resort
The majestic property at Uppuveli beach, Trincomalee is the J7 Villaj which is just a few steps away from the scenic ocean.
At here you are provided with the choice of different rooms as twin, double and lodgers, with the pool view or the garden view.
These are soundproof to give you the quietness after your day, along with air conditioning, a minibar, electric tea pot and of course the most amazing balcony even you can enjoy the Jacuzzis. Also, they own a large outdoor swimming pool with the pool bar.
As of the dining options indoor restaurant, in-room dining or even on request they provide you with lunch packets for you to enjoy your visits in the area.
If you are stuck about what to do at your stay, well there are lot of different adventures waiting for you. Go on Whale and Dolphin watching which is truly eye-catching.
Explore the Hot Springs of Kanniya, a most famous site of the region.
Have a Snorkeling, Surfing or Scuba diving fun session.
Even the SPA center at the resort offers a wide range of procedures to relax you after an active day.
8. Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing
The uncharted luxury of Pottuvil, Kottukal Beach House is in the shoreline of natural wonders.
Opulence of the chalets by the sandy beach and deluxe rooms they offer are beyond the comfort as they embrace you with their warmest hospitality and culture from your first step in to the property itself.
Chalets are built with outdoor private terrace to enjoy your own private space, while the rooms occupy balconies. Also, air conditioning, rain showers with hot and cold-water facility, bottled water and free Wi-Fi access is provided.
As for the dining experience,
Exquisite coastal dining: You can enjoy the meals prepared and served with ocean view.
BBQ dining: Grilled feast of sea food and your favorite choice of meat.
Beach dining: Dine with your feet on the white sandy east coast beach.
Garden dining: Dining in the plantation of coconut trees with the cold breeze and the sound of dazzling waves.
In-room dining: Enjoy your own privacy and comfort with personalized choice of flavors.
Your days at here will be more memorable with, Surfing at world know best waves at Arugam bay.
Having a fresh catch with a local fisherman.
Enjoy the culinary lessons of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine with villagers. The safaris at Lahugala and Kumana national parks to wander with nature and wildlife. Visits to Okanda the famous village with the Hindu Shrine. Explore the historic magul maha viharaya, muhudu maha viharaya, Kudumbigala monastery.
9. Giman Free Beach Resort
In a short walk at the white sandy beach in Pasikuda, the wonderful resort Giman Free is located.
With the offer of a large outdoor pool and a private beach area, hot tubs, air-conditioned rooms with balconies having a scenic view. Even, they have different cuisine for your flavor.
At your time in this calm tranquil environment you can enjoy, Cycling and trekking around the village to explore the intact nature and culture. Diving to witness the amazing coral reefs & snorkeling in the blue waters.
Have a fun boat ride and tour around mangrove escapes. Enjoy your time at ayurvedic Centre, “Giman free Suwa Piyasa” and talk to the ayurvedic doctor. Relax with yoga lessons of experience teachers.
All Places put on a Map
Personally, I love to plan my trips using a map. Therefore, I created one for me, for you, and all other Sri Lanka Travelers.
In this map you will find all best hostels in Sri Lanka, our itinerary, highlights in Sri Lanka, best resorts on the East Coast as well as the top things to see at the East Coast.
(You can activate and deactivate the different layers in the left sidebar. Open the map in a new tab here.)
More Useful Information
All our Sri Lanka Guides for you:
- best hostels in Sri Lanka
- Best things to do in Kandy
- SpinDrift Hostel in Weligama – a Hostel Haven
- Backpacking for Beginners – 10 common Mistakes to avoid
- 13 reasons to Visit East Coast of Sri Lanka
- Yoga Retreats in Sri Lanka
Your Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka
Better safe than sorry! Make sure you get your travel insurance sorted out before hitting the road. This is essential and cheaper than you might think.
Read our full review of HeyMondo as well as our guide how to pick a travel insurance.
Summary
There are numerous high-end resorts in Sri Lanka that deserve attention. It is not just the nearby Maldvies offering these resort experiences. When staying in a resort in Sri Lanka, make sure you check out what food is included and especially what tours.
The Tours that many resorts offer are usually unique as the resort itself. This is one of the reasons why these places triumf in my opinion.
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Disclaimer: This article was written in partnership with Tourism Board Sri Lanka. All opinions are our own.
