Honest review
An almost universal option on Sri Lanka's south-west coast — if not for a couple of honest 'buts'. Start with the pluses: Hibiscus Beach Hotel sits right on the beachfront, only an hour and a half's drive from the airport, and makes a convenient starting point for excursions across the island.
Now the first 'but': the grounds are small, and Kalutara has no tourist promenades with restaurants, shops and clubs. After sunset, lovers of a lively night scene will simply get bored.
Which leads to a simple conclusion: this is a place for those who value calm, unhurried days in the sun by the ocean — and emphatically not for party-goers.
The second audience the resort suits is travellers planning to spend the whole trip actively exploring the island: sleep by the ocean, spend the days on the road.
There is still room to move on site: a fitness room, badminton and volleyball courts, outdoor pools. Who it suits: quiet, sunshine and a handy launch pad for excursions.
