From misty mountain retreats to palatial seaside resorts and boutique glamping escapes, Sri Lanka has a luxury resort to satisfy every traveller.
Whether you’re seeking a serene wellness retreat, sun-soaked surfing getaway, culinary exploration or wildlife adventure, there’s something for everyone in the Teardrop of India. Within these spectacular locations are a collection of boutique hotels and luxury resorts offering premium comfort and high-end facilities: these are the best luxury resorts in Sri Lanka.
Best Luxury Resorts in Sri Lanka for Beaches
Ahu Bay, Ahungalla
Just two hours south of Colombo lies Ahu Bay, a five-star beachfront resort that cleverly fuses contemporary luxury and laid-back comfort. With a beach house-inspired design, the property offers private beach access, three sparkling pools and an onsite restaurant serving seasonal fare designed to nourish the body.
Choose from bay view rooms and suites or opt for the elegant Bay View Pool Residence, a standalone three-bedroom villa boasting a sun-kissed terrace, outdoor plunge pool and direct beach access. Ahu Bay is designed for rest and reconnection, with the onsite Sanctuary Spa offering a range of tailored, bespoke treatments to assist your rejuvenation journey.
Who will love it: Peace seekers, beach-lovers and honeymooners.
Shangri-La Hambantota, Hambantota
Set on the shores of Sri Lanka’s spectacular south coast is Shangri-La Hambantota, a sprawling resort on 59 hectares of lush tropical grounds. Offering an array of five-star amenities, including an 18-hole golf course, waterpark, trapeze and treetop ropes course, this is one of Sri Lanka’s best luxury resorts for families and adventure seekers.
An action-packed kids’ club means the little ones are entertained as you explore the resort’s incredible facilities: sip cocktails at Gimanhala Lounge, explore local arts and crafts at the artisan village, laze by one of three swimming pools or visit Chi Ayurveda Spa for a healing treatment. For a family-friendly bucket-list adventure, Yala National Park – home to wild elephants, leopards and sloth bears – is an hour’s drive away.
Who will love it: Golfers, families and beach-lovers.
Wild Coast Tented Lodge, Yala
Luxury glamping reaches new heights at Wild Coast Tented Lodge, nestled at the juncture of the world-famous Yala National Park and the sparkling Indian Ocean. Thanks to an unfenced border with the park, elephants roam freely through the lodge, making for a truly unforgettable experience. Look for wild animals from your sun-drenched private terrace or embark on a guided nature walk with one of the expert team members to spot exotic species in their native habitat.
Accommodation-wise, you can expect soaring canvas tents with private plunge pools, freestanding copper bathtubs and four-poster beds. You might be in the heart of the Sri Lankan wilderness, but indulgences are plenty with an onsite restaurant and sanctuary spa, providing plenty of opportunities to refuel and re-energise you after your once-in-a-lifetime animal encounters.
Who will love it: Adventure seekers and beach-lovers.
Best Luxury Resorts in Sri Lanka for Design Fans
Lunuganga Estate, Bentota
Amid 15 acres of perfectly manicured gardens lies the private and serene Lunuganga Estate. The former home of Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, commonly referred to as ‘the father of tropical modernism,' this impressive property was lovingly crafted by Bawa over four decades. Today, his jungle home has been transformed into a boutique hotel, offering 10 considered guest rooms.
It’s the perfect stay for those seeking solitude, inspiration and reconnection. Soak up the tropical sunshine at the hilltop pool, stroll through the magnificent gardens on a guided tour or sit down to a romantic candle-lit dinner at The Verandah restaurant. For a truly immersive experience, guests can choose to stay in The Geoffrey Bawa Suite, the original room occupied by the architect himself.
Who will love it: Artists, art appreciators and couples.
Anantara Kalutara Resort, Kalutara
Featuring panoramic ocean and lagoon views, Anantara Kalutara Resort is a haven of luxury on the celebrated southwest coast. Boasting all the tropical charm you would expect from a Geoffrey Bawa design, the resort’s exquisite rooms, suites and pool villas blend contemporary styling with authentic Sri Lankan craftsmanship. For the ultimate luxury, book the Royal Bawa Suite – a sprawling multi-level suite featuring a private plunge pool, sun deck with lagoon views and a curated selection of Indigenous artwork.
Wellness enthusiasts will adore the resort’s multi-day health programs, combining exercise, nutrition and Ayurvedic treatments. If you’d rather focus on the latter, Anantara Spa is a haven of relaxation, with treatments inspired by ancient healing traditions and ingredients like Sri Lanka’s prized king coconut. A visit to the spa is the perfect prelude to dinner at Acquolina, where Italian fine dining takes centre stage, or opt for a private affair overlooking the lagoon.
Who will love it: Wellness enthusiasts and architecture lovers.
Best Luxury Resorts in Colombo
Galle Face Hotel, Colombo
With a legacy spanning more than 150 years, Galle Face Hotel offers timeless grandeur in the heart of Colombo. The iconic seaside hotel is located alongside the popular Galle Face Green beach park and boasts two wings – Heritage and Regency – each offering luxury guestrooms that balance heritage charm and modern comfort.
Some of Colombo’s finest dining options can be found here. Be sure to visit 1864 Limited Edition, a gastro-chic restaurant and bar adorned with renowned Sri Lankan art pieces and boasting stunning ocean views. Step back in time with an indulgent high tea at The Verandah, served daily, or sip signature cocktails at seaside Firebeach. A tranquil Balinese spa, ocean-facing saltwater pool (Colombo’s first and only), well-stocked library and croquet lawn complete the luxury offerings.
Who will love it: History buffs and foodies.
Shangri-La Colombo
Experience all the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality, backed by the world-class reputation of the Shangri-La brand, at this impressive five-star resort. Overlooking the Indian Ocean and offering direct access to the glamorous One Galle Face Mall, Shangri-La Colombo provides a blissful retreat in Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital.
Each room comes standard with first-rate Shangri-La amenities, complemented by your choice of glittering ocean or lake views. During your stay, take a dip in the sparkling outdoor pool, overlooking the ocean, or pay a visit to the world-class wellness centre, Chi, The Spa for a therapeutic treatment. When hunger strikes, sample one of the hotel’s impressive cafes, restaurants and bars. Whether you fancy fiery Asian cuisine, steak and seafood grilled to perfection or a decadent high tea with a distinctly Sri Lankan twist, there’s an option to satisfy every craving.
Who will love it: Foodies, families and groups.
Best Luxury Resorts in Sri Lanka for Honeymoons
Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa, Kandy
Perched atop a hill and surrounded by acres of spice and tea plantations, Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa may well be Sri Lanka’s most visually stunning resort. Located within the island’s alluring Cultural Triangle, the award-winning property is home to just eight luxury villas, so privacy is all but guaranteed. The opulent Sky Tented Villa takes glamping to the next level – set high above the canopy, the room offers breathtaking mountain views from every angle, be it the plush king bed, outdoor bathtub or plunge pool.
Whatever lodging you choose, wake to unforgettable sunrises over UNESCO World Heritage-listed Knuckles Mountain Range. Later, take a dip in the resort’s infinity pool, overlooking the lush surrounds, visit the luxury spa and wellness centre or reset your mind, body and soul with an invigorating yoga class. No stay is complete without a visit to AAHAARA, a curated dining experience designed not just to fuel, but inspire and delight. Start with an arrack cocktail and let expert chefs lead you on a journey through Sri Lanka’s storied cuisine.
Who will love it: Honeymooners, nature lovers and foodies.
Amangalla, Galle
Set within the historic ramparts of Galle Fort, Amangalla is an exquisite, boutique hotel boasting breathtaking views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed fort and harbour on one side and the hotel’s courtyard swimming pool on the other.
Every corner of the hotel exudes old-world charm, from the original timber floors and high sash windows of the lavish rooms and suites to the white linen tablecloths and chandeliers of The Dining Room. Enjoy daily yoga sessions in the lush resort gardens, visit Aman Spa for transformative treatments, curated by the hotel’s Ayurvedic physician, or indulge in one of Sri Lanka’s most exquisite afternoon teas at The Verandah.
Who will love it: Couples, history buffs and wellness enthusiasts.
Ceylon Tea Trails, Hatton
Unwind in one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque locations with a stay at Ceylon Tea Trails, in the heart of the nation’s hill country. Perched at an altitude of 1,250 metres, you can expect crisp sunrises, misty evenings and cool breezes: the perfect antidote to Sri Lanka’s humidity. Offering just 27 suites within five luxury tea-planter bungalows, the hotel offers an all-inclusive experience, meaning you won’t have to think about a thing.
This region is a haven for tea lovers, and the hotel offers a selection of bespoke experiences including tea-infused dinners, exquisite high teas in the garden and green tea aromatic baths. Wander through the lush gardens, take a dip in one of five outdoor swimming pools or enjoy a traditional tea planters’ lunch from tiffin boxes. As the cool of evening sets in, snuggle up by the fire, pour yourself a drink and enjoy the serenity of this incredible setting.
Who will love it: Tea lovers, couples and honeymooners.
Malabar Hill, Weligama
Hidden in the wild Sri Lankan countryside lies Malabar Hill, a resort ready to transport guests on a journey of rest, reconnection and rediscovery. Thanks to the property’s unique hillside location, each of the 12 villas offers views of the white sands of Weligama Bay or the surrounding wetlands, abundant with native wildlife. Private terraces, saltwater infinity pools and artisan furniture make these dreamy villas a haven of comfort and seclusion.
Arguably the jewel in this already impressive resort’s crown is the exquisite Hill House Restaurant, an ode to farm-to-table produce, bohemian design and locally handmade artisan craftsmanship. Sample buffalo curd, sourced just a stone’s throw from the property, savour crispy skin barramundi, caught fresh from the Indian Ocean, or indulge in an authentic Sri Lankan lamprais – a selection of curries made with vegetables from the resort garden. A nightcap at the accompanying bar is the perfect way to end the day.
Who will love it: Foodies and honeymooners.
Feature image: Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa, Sri Lanka. Source: supplied.
After more inspiration? Read The Top 6 Best Restaurants In Sri Lanka & Their Must-Try Dishes.
