Arugambay Resort

The location is very handy, close to the 'strip' for the beach, shops, ATM and restaurants. We weren’t bothered much by other guests, music or noise. The people were friendly, but the 'resort' feels well past its glory days. The decorations suggest there used to be live cooking and a juice bar, but now there are just beds, AC and a shower. It has no shine, and at 35$ for a double I expected more. It’s not the worst place we’ve stayed in Asia, but the rooms were only swept, not really cleaned. Things in and around the rooms and hallways are broken or deteriorating. The toilet wasn’t properly fixed to the floor and wobbled when used. The shower flooded the bathroom, tiles were cracked, and shelves hung loose from the walls and couldn’t be used. We had to ask for fresh sheets. The 'fresh' ones smelled distinctly horrible, but were better than nothing or the decorative crocheted blanket on the bed. Mosquito nets over the double beds were a plus, although there aren’t many mosquitoes here. Ants or termites in the room and bathroom seem common in SL, and we also had cockroaches in the bathroom, which isn’t unusual in SL. I think the place needs time, money and workers to restore some of its former glory. A nice pool or garden would be a great addition, or even a seating area for travellers. Right now it’s not a backpacker magnet or really a family place. People book it for the location, but I don’t think that will last. Good luck upgrading it.

The hosts were very nice and available whenever we had questions. The rooms and the hostel overall are old and haven’t been renovated, which makes the price high for what you get. The location is excellent, close to the main beach.

We had a quiet, comfortable room at a fair price. The atmosphere was great, and the staff were helpful and friendly. A great place to stay in Arugam Bay!

The hosts were warm and very friendly, and the service was top notch. The eagle resort is right in the center of arugambay, so you can reach everything you need quickly. The rooms are clean.