Koggala Beach Hotel

The relaxed island vibe is unmistakable at this beachfront property, where an open, thatched-roof lobby looks out onto gently swaying palm trees, a pool, and the Indian Ocean surf. Most common areas do need a refresh, though, as the sparsely furnished reception, hallways, and dining areas look dated and tired. Wood chairs and tables provide seating areas near the front desk. A couple of stray, but harmless, dogs also wander the property, which might be a concern for some. Overall, the hotel isn’t luxurious, but the sea breeze, laid-back atmosphere, and beautiful views from practically anywhere on-site explain why guests like to stay here. Clientele is almost entirely made up of vacationing couples, families, and even solo travelers.  

Located off a highway in a quiet nook of Galle, the hotel is somewhat of a hidden gem, without crowds of tourists or excessive noise. Its perch on a long stretch of smooth, sandy beach makes its surroundings even more peaceful and beautiful. Getting around outside requires a tuk tuk or a car. While there aren’t many attractions in Koggala itself, the Galle Historical Mansion Museum and National Maritime Museum are a 20-minute drive away. Unawatuna Beach is an 11-minute drive away. Colombo Ratmalana International Airport is over two hours away by car.

There are just two room varieties: Deluxe and Suites -- but both are generously sized, clean, and look more updated than the common areas. Minimalist but tasteful, beach life-inspired furnishings and decor includes dark wood work desks and headboards, light tiles, and earthy green bed runners. Deluxe Rooms have benches and small coffee tables, while Suites come with sofas and dining tables that seat two. All rooms have large sliding windows leading to sea-facing furnished balconies, from which sunset views are especially breathtaking. Rooms are decently appointed, with LCD flat-screen TVs (on the small side relative to room size), air-conditioning, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Tea- and coffee-making facilities are provided. Deluxe Rooms have mini-fridges. Suites have minibars and iPod docks. Bathrooms are on the small side, with no separation between the sink and toilet area, but they’re well-kept, with walk-in showers and handheld showerheads. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided. 

Features focus on relaxation and convenience. The large Grove Restaurant is filled with natural light and open windows for the breeze and sea views. All meals are served buffet-style; breakfast must be booked in addition to rooms, and features a good choice of continental and Sri Lankan fare. Dinners are a mix of local dishes with another cuisine that rotates regularly. Guests have noted that special dietary requirements can be easily accommodated and 24-hour room service is available. There’s also a large lounge in an atrium-like space, offering drinks and lots of seating, where live bands play on the weekdays and DJs provide music on the weekends. Leisure amenities include the outdoor pool, which is clean but on the small side relative to the property size, and can get crowded. It has a poolside bar open in the evenings, featuring upbeat Calypso music once a week along with wines and custom cocktails. Guests can also use the slightly bigger pools at the sister hotel next door. Direct access to the public beach’s lengthy stretch of smooth sand and incredibly blue water, is a notable perk. While the water can get rough at times, lifeguards are on duty, and the hotel organizes water activities and sports for extra fees.Free 15-minute massages are provided at Spa Magosa, which also offers more exhaustive skin, face, eye, nail, and massage treatments along with packages for couples at reasonable rates.There is no business center here, but free WI-Fi is available throughout the property. Parking is also free.