Mallika Guest House

We spent our last two afternoons here and loved it. The beach was perfect, and both the food and the staff were amazing.

The lagoon kayak trip was beautiful and cost 500rp. I also really liked the battered prawns, whole grilled fish, and prawn and coconut pancakes. The food was clean and very good, though meals and water cost a bit more than Ella and are expensive by Sri Lankan standards. I used the laundry service, but a few stains were still there afterward. We visited in August, when the place was quiet and tranquil. It gets very lively in high season, and the sea is supposed to be still then. During our stay the waves were wild and fun, with both cloudy and sunny days. The whole stretch of resorts and restaurants is kept clean and decorated in a cosy way, with hardly any tall buildings. The restaurant and bar are snugly furnished, have a scenic view, and provide mosquito incense at dinner. The room was very cheap, clean, and good quality, with good air conditioning. Everyone was friendly. The beach is sandy, and the city centre and supermarket are within walking distance. You can see turtles at nearby Rekawa beach, but don't go. The way they do "business" involves abusing and chasing away turtles. Read the reviews there yourself.

There are plenty of restaurants within walking distance, and TukTuks are easy to find. The guest house is across the road from the beach, with a bar restaurant right on the sand. The shore drops off, so the waves break hard there, which isn't good for kids. Our family room was okay but small, upstairs among the other rooms. Sound carries through the walls, and we could hear the neighbors talking and snoring, so light sleepers might struggle. The grounds felt cluttered and ramshackle. The owners don't seem to care much about aesthetics. I'd say it's aimed at backpackers.

The beach views are amazing, and there's a good shed for lunch. Once the lights come on at night, it has a really nice feel. The family cooks delicious, fresh food, and the boys are very friendly with great service. A lovely spot for a beach day. I'll definitely come back!