Amagi Aria

This three-and-a-half pearl property has a contemporary design consisting of lots of wood and gray stone, first seen in the square stone archway that acts as the entrance. The rest of the exterior is a mix of yellow stone, black wood, and large windows that provide views of the pretty lagoon. The lobby isn't nearly as attractive as the rooms; it's outfitted in dated tan couches alongside earth-tone striped throw pillows and ottomans, though the gray-wood flooring and blue-and-green backsplash with a wave-like design behind the front desk are more modern touches. Grounds are fairly compact but well-manicured, consisting of a large green lawn, uneven wooden walkways, and a pretty pool. The vibe is peaceful, only marred by the unsightly (and occasionally noisy) construction next door. Most guests are overnighters taking advantage of the proximity to the airport.

The hotel isn't along the beach, but it sits next to the pretty Negombo Lagoon. It's also one of the more conveniently located hotels for those just arriving or about to depart from the airport. Bandaranaike International Airport is about a 15-minute drive from the hotel and the staff can arrange airport transfers or call a tuk-tuk for guests. Since the hotel is far down a side street, guests will need to have the front desk call for transportation whenever necessary. There's ample free parking for those with cars. Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling capital, is about 35 minutes away by car.

The 22 contemporary rooms are spread among three floors in separate buildings. They're attractively decorated with simple wood furniture, dark-gray tiling, white walls, and beds topped with white sheets, blue striped bed runners, and blue and orange throw pillows. Some rooms have wide strips of gray stone behind the beds, while others have colorful works of art hanging above them. Top-floor rooms by the pool have high wood-beam ceilings that make them feel more spacious. Rooms all have a king-size bed, and wooden baby cots are available for an extra fee. The Deluxe Room can fit up to four guests. Rooms have either furnished balconies or patios, though the latter are by the pool and not very private. All guest rooms have work desks, flat-screen TVs with DVD players, mini-fridges, tea- and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning. Bathrooms are small but modern, outfitted in dark-gray tile, and equipped with walk-in showers and free toiletries, but no hairdryers. Closets come with safes and bathrobes. Some wear and tear is visible and rooms let in lots of noise, particularly those above the restaurant.

Given that the hotel is quite small, there are only a handful of features available. The pretty outdoor pool is a decent size and has a wooden deck lined with cushioned wooden loungers and a handful of umbrellas. There are fewer than a dozen loungers, but obtaining one never seems to be an issue. A spa is also available for treatments, including couples' massages. Next to it is a tiny gym with just a few pieces of equipment.The main Lagoon restaurant serves Sri Lankan and international dishes in an indoor space with floor-to-ceiling windows, or outdoor on a terrace or the wooden deck next to the water. The Catamaran Bar is located inside the restaurant. For a more private setting, the Tree House has a couple of tables under a thatched roof, plus it's close to the lagoon. A meeting and event space is available, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.