Life’s better poolside.
Informally known as ‘The Teardrop of India’ and ‘The Land of Serendipity’, Sri Lanka is a small but captivating country that leaves its visitors wanting more with each visit. This tiny nation boasts of fascinating ancient ruins, mouth-watering delicacies, endless tea plantations, cascading mountain peaks, diverse wildlife and last but not least, golden beaches that marries the idyllic blue oceans.
All the aforementioned traits make Sri Lanka the perfect destination for an unconventional island getaway—especially now that the country has just received the ‘Safe Travels’ global safety and hygiene stamp from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
While we patiently wait for Sri Lanka to reopen its borders to travellers again (this was initially planned to happen on August 1st 2020 but has since been delayed until further notice), here are some gorgeous private pool villa options you should bookmark first. Hint: they’re all big enough to fit six or more guests!
Coconut Grove
Coconut Grove Sri Lanka
Location: Ahangama, Galle
Bedrooms: Four air-conditioned ensuite bedrooms
Rates: From USD 419 nett per night
Tucked away amongst the sky-high palm trees of southern Sri Lanka, this charming country house is located near the Ahangama fishing village and is a 30-minute drive away from the Unesco World Heritage Site of Galle. Surrounded by cosy gardens, Coconut Grove exudes warm, homey vibes that allow guests to fully kick back and relax. Whether it be on the soft sofas in the common space or the white sun loungers by the villa’s private pool, you’re bound to find inner peace no matter where you park yourself at.
Read more: Galle Travel Guide, Sri Lanka’s Hipster Destination
Kumara Villa
Kumara Villa Sri Lanka
Location: Weligama
Bedrooms: Three king-size bedroom suites with indoor/outdoor bathing facilities
Rates: From USD 447 nett per night
Close an eye and you might just fool your brain into thinking you’re in Bali. Conveniently located just 500 metres away from Weligama Beach, Kumara villa is made up of three main pavilions—all containing ample space for kids to run around in (bonus points if you spot the villa’s dogs!). Two acres of landscaped gardens circle the villa, offering a spectacular view while you swim in the infinity pool. You might even catch some birds and monkeys if you’re lucky!
Read more: When is the Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka?
Lansiya
Lansiya Sri Lanka
Location: Tangalle
Bedrooms: Lansiya has four ensuite bedrooms. Three bedrooms are located in the main house and the fourth room is in its own pavilion called Lansiya Hill. Only one is air-conditioned while the other three are cooled by ceiling fans and sea breeze.
Rates: From USD 447 nett per night
Blessed with direct private access to the beautiful Seenimodera Bay, this colonial-style villa is ideal for families or a group of friends who are looking for a beachfront retreat that guarantees privacy. Nothing sounds more relaxing than listening to the sound of ocean waves as you wash your worries away in the saltwater swimming pool.
Read more: The Luxe Nomad’s Guide to Tangalle, Sri Lanka!
Pointe Sud
Pointe Sud Sri Lanka
Location: Kamburugamuwa, Mirissa
Bedrooms: Five air-conditioned ensuite bedrooms
Rates: From USD 475 nett per night
If clifftop accommodations with stunning ocean views are your kryptonite, then Pointe Sud is going to take your breath away. With the fabulous Mirissa Beach just a few minutes away via tuk-tuk, you can spend your days by either taking a quiet stroll on the white sands or go for a soak in the villa’s gorgeous infinity-edge lap pool. Our favourite part of the villa? The alfresco dining area on the terrace. We can already imagine the dinner-time laughs booming across the porch…
Read more: 10 Reasons Why You Need to Add Sri Lanka to Your Bucket List
Skye House
Skye House Sri Lanka
Location: Habaraduwa, Galle
Bedrooms: Five en-suite bedrooms with one of them being a dedicated bunk bed room for kids!
Rates: From USD 1,005 nett per night
A modern beach house fit for your crazy rich (and big) family, Skye House is the epitome of colonial-meets-modern luxury. What makes this beautifully decorated villa stand out is that it is kid-friendly in every way possible. L-shaped pool aside, other facilities include a fully-equipped kitchen, hammock in the courtyard, TV room, games room, plus a children’s playground with climbing rope, two swings, monkey bars, and pirate hut. Bonus: Guests have direct access to the pristine, turtle-hatching Koggala Beach.
Read more: A Girl’s Guide to Shopping, Eating & Sightseeing in Galle
Suriyawatta
Suriyawatta Sri Lanka
Location: Weligama
Bedrooms: This is a five-bedroom property consisting of two double bedrooms, two twin bedrooms, and a four-bed bunk room. All rooms are air-conditioned and ensuite.
Rates: From USD 815 nett per night
Now here’s a vacation complex made for your whole entourage. Think birthdays, anniversary celebrations, or even a joint bachelor and bachelorette party, this entire estate that’s perched on a hill overlooking Weligama Bay spells ‘unforgettable holiday’ in caps. Named after the two large Tulip Trees that shade the south-facing lawn and 15-metre pool, Suriyawatta is equipped with resort-standard amenities and a full staff that’s ready to cater to whatever your group needs.
Hint: The Bose speakers at the villa connects to the Sonos sound system by the pool. So don’t forget to curate a nice playlist before your trip!
Read more: 6 Amazing Food Hunts in Colombo
Walatta House
Walatta House Sri Lanka
Location: Seenimodera, Tangalle
Bedrooms: The property has three bedrooms with their own indoor/outdoor bathrooms. One room has a king-sized bed, the other has a queen-sized bed and another with two single beds.
Rates: From USD 447 nett per night
Situated on a hillside with magnetic 180-degree views of the Indian Ocean, this aesthetically satisfying loft-style villa is a haven of tranquillity and elegance. The main bedroom’s large sliding glass doors lead out onto the lush garden and pool terrace. A few more steps down the slope and you’ll find yourself in the middle of a secluded beach. It’s not hard to make Walatta House your home away from home given that there’s also a full team staff (including a private chef) that’s ready to provide you with utmost comfort during your stay!
If in doubt, swim it out.
