Honest review
The main thing to know about Royal Palms Beach before booking: the resort stands in Kalutara, 80 km from the airport, and the transfer takes about 2.5 hours. That is the price of a calm coastline away from Colombo (52 km away) — decide in advance whether you are willing to pay it.
From there on, only good news. 122 rooms with ocean views and a line-up of suites: royal colonial, Heritage, executive and two penthouses. For the wow effect, go straight for the suites: they come with their own patio or balcony, and the suites and penthouses have open-air jacuzzis.
The food works like this: a main restaurant with an eastern and continental buffet and themed shows in the evening, a poolside coffee shop with a grill after dark, and a Japanese restaurant for a change of register.
By day — tennis, squash, volleyball, a gym, beach games, spa and massages.
Set aside at least a day for excursions: the Kalutara temple, hollow inside, with its 74 frescoes, Richmond Castle with 99 carved doors and 34 windows, and a turtle hatchery — all close by.
A good choice for families and for anyone who wants to combine the beach with the real Sri Lanka.
