Best Resorts and Places to Stay in Matara
Why visit?
Located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Matara is a captivating destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and stunning landmarks. From its pristine beaches to historic sites, here are some reasons why Matara is a must-visit for tourists:
Unawatuna Beach: Known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Unawatuna Beach is a picturesque spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Galle Fort: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fortified city with Dutch and Portuguese influences. Explore the charming streets, visit historical buildings, and enjoy the panoramic views from the ramparts.
Dondra Head Lighthouse: Standing tall at 49 meters, the Dondra Head Lighthouse is Asia's tallest lighthouse. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.
Polhena Beach: With its calm waters and vibrant coral reefs, Polhena Beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and observing marine life, including sea turtles.
Mirissa Whale Watching: Embark on an exciting boat trip from Mirissa harbor and get a chance to spot magnificent blue whales, playful dolphins, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Why is choosing a resort in Matara better than staying in a hotel?
More space and privacy: Resorts usually offer spacious accommodations, including private villas or bungalows, allowing guests to enjoy their own space.
Exclusive amenities: Resorts often provide additional facilities such as swimming pools, spas, fitness centers, and restaurants, enhancing the overall vacation experience.
Secluded beach access: Many resorts in Matara offer direct access to private stretches of pristine beaches, providing an intimate and serene setting for relaxation.
Personalized services: Resorts are known for their attentive staff and personalized services, ensuring that guests have a memorable and hassle-free stay.
Immersion in nature: Matara's resorts are often nestled amidst lush tropical greenery and offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean, creating a tranquil and immersive environment.
What is the price to stay in a resort per night?
In Matara, the average prices per night in USD for resorts vary based on their star ratings:
3-star resorts: Prices range from $50 to $100 per night.
4-star resorts: Prices range from $100 to $200 per night.
5-star resorts: Prices range from $200 to $400 per night.
Best Value for Money Resorts:
Amaloh by Jetwing: Located in Ahangama, this resort offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, spa, and a beachfront location. Nearby attractions include Koggala Lake and the Handunugoda Tea Estate.
Peacock Villa: Situated in Weligama, Peacock Villa provides budget-friendly accommodation, a tranquil garden, and easy access to Weligama Bay, the iconic Stick Fishermen, and the Turtle Hatchery.
CoCo Bay Unawatuna Hotel & Spa: Situated near Unawatuna Beach, this resort offers spacious rooms, a pool, spa services, and proximity to Galle Fort and Jungle Beach.
Best Luxury Resorts:
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort: Nestled amidst a coconut plantation, this five-star resort features luxurious rooms, a private beach, spa, multiple fine-dining options, and is close to the Mulkirigala Rock Temple.
Cape Weligama: Offering luxurious villas with private plunge pools, Cape Weligama boasts breathtaking ocean views, a cliff-top infinity pool, spa, and is a short distance from Mirissa Beach and the whale-watching excursion.
Best Pets-Friendly Resorts:
Citrus Hikkaduwa: Situated in Hikkaduwa, this resort welcomes pets and offers comfortable rooms, a pool, direct beach access, and is close to Hikkaduwa Coral Reef and the Tsunami Photo Museum.
Era Beach by Jetwing: Located in Thalpe, this pet-friendly resort provides stylish rooms, an outdoor pool, direct access to a quiet beach, and is a short drive from the Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya Temple.
Best Resorts for Families:
Lantern Boutique Hotel: Situated in Mirissa, this family-friendly resort offers spacious rooms, a pool, a kids' club, and is within reach of Mirissa Beach and Mirissa Fisheries Harbor.
Talalla Retreat: Nestled amidst lush greenery in Talalla, this resort features family-friendly rooms, a yoga center, pools, and is close to the tranquil Talalla Beach.
Mandara Resort: Located in Mirissa, this resort offers family rooms, a pool, a children's playground, and easy access to Coconut Tree Hill and Mirissa Beach.
Best Resorts with Unique Views:
Cape Weligama: With its commanding cliff-top location, this resort offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, making it an ideal choice for those seeking exceptional vistas.
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort: Set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens and overlooking a secluded beach, this resort offers stunning ocean views and a sense of tranquility.
