Arasi Resort

We couldn’t have picked a better spot for Christmas and New Year. The cabanas had AC and ventilation, so we slept really well, and meals were cooked fresh each day when we wanted them. The kitesurf and Wingfoil school by the water added lots to do during the day. From the welcome onward, the team, beach Cabanas, and kitesurf crew at Arasi resort were all outstanding.

The taxi they arranged for me was tiny and uncomfortable, and that left a bad last impression. The staff were very slow and not efficient, and the breakfast honestly wasn’t good. I also found the cabin short on privacy. The hotel itself was pretty, though, with charming, practical rooms and a pleasant, thoughtfully designed atmosphere.

I had such a special stay, and Ian and the staff made it extra, extra memorable. The food was delicious, especially the seafood and Sri Lankan dishes, and they were always trying to meet our needs. There are two lovely dogs and a cat, too. The rooms and grounds are beautiful, with lots of greenery, outdoor private bathrooms, a pool, and a yoga area. It felt like a great place to unwind, connect with nature, and do a detox retreat. For kitesurfing, they have their own launch spot on the Main Lagoon, which is flat, huge, and deep enough for jumping. They can also help arrange a boat to the beach launch area, as well as kite lessons and tours. My one suggestion is to have a beach boy who knows how to launch and land kites safely. Since it’s a kite spot, that would be essential, and they don’t have one at the moment.

We went just after the cyclone, which was a mistake. The manager was a lovely guy, but the rest of it was so, so bad. There were mosquitoes, bugs, and dogs everywhere. The place wasn’t clean, the restaurant choices were limited, and there was nothing to do. Better to skip it.