Surf Gangs Hotel

We were very sad to find my engagement ring and some nice earrings missing from the bathroom. The staff had been really friendly, which made it especially disappointing. Don’t leave valuables in the room. We were there with our family in August. The rooms were nice but very basic, without even a bottle of water or kettle. They arranged surf lessons, but the instructors were often late and didn’t seem very interested. There were meant to be two, but one had a hangover and didn’t show; one was surfing himself, while the other gave very little instruction.

The staff were great, always ready to help with a smile. Rooms were tidy, and it’s a short walk to the city centre shops and bars. Prices were really good too. Definitely recommend.

Lucy’s puppies were a treat, and the balcony was handy for relaxing or drying clothes. The location is close to everything in Arugam Bay, and Dean in particular was friendly and helpful. The place was cleaned daily. They can arrange surf lessons if you ask the night before, and boards are available to rent. A few things to know: the shower pressure was low, and the heater made a loud noise. The fan was noisy enough to make sleeping difficult. It’s a very basic hotel, with just towels, hand wash and toilet paper supplied. There were no toiletries, bottled water or hangers, and the bed had only a thin sheet, so using the AC at night was uncomfortable. Privacy was limited because of the neighboring hotel’s kitchen, and once our room was cleaned without advance notice.

I’d tried a few places while looking for a dorm, then found this one. The room was huge, with a great bathroom, and the facilities felt new. They cleaned the room and brought fresh towels every day, and there’s a really nice pool outside. I had an incredible stay for a very cheap price.