Bay Dream Beach Hotel

We felt safe and well looked after throughout our stay, and if anything came up, Iqbal would sort it out. We could also pay by card, which was really important to us. Iqbal helped with airport bus tickets and let us extend our stay by two days even though we hadn’t booked them in advance. The place itself was lovely, quiet, cozy, and clean, with a beautiful, well maintained garden. Breakfast was delicious, with fresh fruit juices. Raheem is an experienced surf coach, and taking lessons with him is an option. He always picked a suitable spot, and we were able to make real progress. The nicest stay we could have had in Arugam Bay. We’d definitely like to return to Bay Dreams beach hotel.

We had several lessons with Kaim, who had us catching waves in no time, and I’d recommend arranging surfing lessons through Iqbal. Iqbal was a gentleman who clearly cared about his guests. The service was incredible, and we felt well looked after. We booked for several nights with my wife and had a comfortable room. The hammock and sofa space outside was the little gem, a place to relax or get to know the neighbours. The location is great, near the beach and only a short walk from the centre of A-bay. Breakfast was good in both size and quality each day. I’d recommend staying here if you’re visiting a-bay.

The surf lessons were 6,000 LKR, and having a driver pick us up and bring us back made the whole thing easy and stress-free. Iqbala has lived in Arugam Bay all his life, so he was also great for local tips, scooter hire, or arranging a tuktuk. He and the team made us feel like family. We ended up extending our stay, which says a lot about how hard it was to leave. Bay Dreams is just 50 metres from the beach, handy for a swim or the evening surf. The waves tend to come up around 4pm, and seemed suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Our room was spacious and clean, with dependable hot water, air conditioning, and a hammock outside that was sturdy enough for a grown adult to lounge in comfortably. Breakfast was included each day and was among the best we had on our travels. It varied, with curries, eggs on toast, pancakes, hoppers, fresh juice, tea, and coffee, all fresh and full of flavour. We also recommend trying the in-house chef’s BBQ fish or chicken, and the kottu, which was the best we had in Sri Lanka. We came as a couple travelling from NZ, and had a truly memorable stay. Iqbala was an exceptional host, and we’d highly recommend Bay Dreams to anyone visiting Arugam Bay.

When I got hurt surfing, the host arranged a hospital visit for me. They also sorted pickup and drop-offs for the rest of my trip, and helped me learn to cook a delicious curry in their kitchen. They even offered to send me a recording of how to make one of their breakfast dishes because I liked it so much. I was travelling alone and felt very safe the whole time. The host and staff were lovely, and it really felt like being part of a family. The food was delicious too. I’d definitely recommend Bay Dreams, especially if you’re travelling solo. Thanks for everything!