Ananthaya Beach

The view was the standout for us. From our bed we watched a beautiful sunrise, and the restaurant also had a lovely outlook and pleasant atmosphere. The food was delicious, and the staff, especially the restaurant waiters, were very friendly. It's a small hotel with eight rooms across four two-storey cottages. Our upper-floor double room was spacious and very clean, with a comfortable bed. It also included a free single bed with railings that could serve as a cot. The infinity pool overlooks the ocean and is average in size. There isn't a baby pool, and parents should be careful because it slopes steeply to a deep end of about 6 feet. Though the hotel is next to the beach, there's no direct access; a footpath just outside leads there. The beach is a small fishing harbour with many boats docked, so it doesn't offer much privacy.

Although it's in a remote spot, there are a few local tavernas around, and the hotel has a small spa for massages and ayurvedic treatments. Getting to the beach takes about five minutes on foot, and the harbor area is good for swimming because the water is calm, unlike at some other Sri Lankan beaches. The hotel is quite small, probably around 20 rooms, and all face the ocean and sunrise. Rooms are large and have wide windows, with an intimate feel. There's a nice pool and a good breakfast with fresh juices and fruit, though the choices aren't very varied. Staff are very friendly. The restaurant is just okay rather than great, with average prices and fresh seafood. Ask for the catch of the day.

Breakfast and dinner were both fantastic, and we especially loved the Sri Lankan breakfast they served each morning. The newly opened rooms are beautiful and spacious, and the staff were super friendly. The hotel and pool look out over a fishing harbor, reached by a set of steps; a short walk from there brings you to a nice place to swim in calm water. Our room wasn't cleaned at first because there was no sign to put out, and nobody mentioned this at check-in. Once we pointed it out, they fixed the issue and cleaned it. I'd also recommend an evening trip to the turtle beach at Rekawa, a short drive away.

The rooms were clean and roomy, with great views, and the pool was nice and peaceful. Service was slow, unfortunately, and didn't meet what we expected for the price. We waited nearly half an hour between ordering and getting our food, even though we were the first ones in the breakfast restaurant.