Sexiest new hotel openings in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, one of Ampersand’s very first destinations, is having a bit of a moment. A wave of new hotel openings is changing the way people experience the island - whether that’s a surf-town villa, a tea-country estate or a beach house with the sand right at your feet. Every one of the Sri Lanka boutique hotels we work with has its own personality and way of doing things, which is exactly what makes the country such fun to travel around.

Below we’ve shared six new openings that we’re big fans of. From the east coast to the hill country, these properties show just how varied Sri Lanka’s hotel scene has become. Some lean on design, others on heritage or wellness but each has its own character. Taken together, they make a strong case for another trip to the island.

Kayaam House, Tangalle

Located on Rekawa Beach, Kayaam House is less a hotel than a boutique sanctuary designed for rest, renewal and reconnection. With just nine rooms, it feels more like a private coastal hideaway where wellness and slow living set the tone. Interiors are minimalist, calm and chic, while outside the coastline is perfectly raw and untamed - creating the ideal balance of retreat and sense of place.

Why we love it: The atmosphere is deeply restorative; days filled with sunrise yoga, ocean air and lantern-lit dinners make it the kind of place where, after the first full day, you exhale deeply and truly switch off.

Ahu Bay, Ahungalla

Perched on a secluded bay on the island’s west coast, Ahu Bay - the playful sister hotel to Kayaam House in Tangalle - combines barefoot beach living with boutique polish in the most wonderful way. There are sweeping ocean views, an infinity pool lined with swaying palms and light-filled rooms that balance contemporary style with tropical textures. Located just two hours south of Colombo, it’s the perfect first or last stop on a full island itinerary.

Why we love it: It has the relaxed feel of a laid-back beach house with all the spoiling touches; the sort of place you pop in for a few nights but, on check-out, wish you’d booked for the week.

Uga Halloowella, Hatton

Up in the hills of Hatton, Uga Halloowella is a  reimagined 1912 planter’s bungalow with sweeping views over Castlereagh Reservoir. With just six suites, an infinity pool and country gardens that roll down to the water, it blends old-world charm with Uga’s contemporary touch. Days fall easily into rhythm here: tea tastings, walks through misty hills, and fireside evenings overlooking the lake. The restoration balances history and heritage with a fresh spirit and it’s already earned a spot on Condé Nast Traveller’s 2025 Hot List.

Why we love it: It captures tea country at its most atmospheric, polished but not overdone. Historic but the opposite of stuffy - rather sleek, elegant and spoiling.

Uga Prāva, Tangalle

On the quieter end of Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Uga Prāva brings a sleek, contemporary feel to Tangalle. Suites are generous and light-filled, with a balance of modern comforts and subtle Sri Lankan details. It’s a polished base for exploring the south with Tangalle’s long, golden beaches just steps away.

Why we love it: It offers the space and style of a resort, but still feels boutique in nature and deeply connected to its beautiful setting.

Uga Riva, Negombo

Set in a 180-year-old manor house near Negombo, Uga Riva brings a sense of heritage and boutique grandeur to Sri Lanka’s west coast. Verandas, courtyards and fretwork recall the island’s past, while inside feels fresh and contemporary. Located just half an hour from the airport, it makes an atmospheric first or last stop on the island.

Why we love it: It’s a manor house with soul, restored with flair and a sense of place, where every corner has a story to tell. 

Kalkudah Beach House, East Coast

Situated on Sri Lanka’s east coast, Kalkudah Beach House feels like a well-kept secret. Just five bedrooms sit within a coconut grove that opens straight onto a wide, quiet beach. The design is clean and contemporary, but it’s the setting that makes it — unspoilt sands, turquoise water, and the feeling that you’ve got it all to yourself.

Why we love it: It’s the kind of place that reminds you Sri Lanka still has hidden corners. And of course those winning sea views…

Thinking about Sri Lanka? Drop us a line at info@ampersandtravel.com and we’ll help you build a tailor-made journey around the island’s newest and most interesting stays.