Dolphin Beach

Introduction

Dolphin Beach is a sister property of the nearby Bar Reef Resort, both of them lying on the marine sanctuary of Kalpitiya in Sri Lanka’s north-west, a land of lagoons, islands and near-deserted beaches. It is a property with a difference, with comfortable accommodation in a/c tented chalets. An ambalama – open sided pavilion with thatched roof – serves as a lounging area by the sea, and there is a beach restaurant with sandy floors and thatched roof that serves up sumptuous buffets. Dolphin Beach is fully equipped for whale and dolphin watching, snorkelling and scuba diving. This is an ideal holiday escape for those seeking laidback, barefoot living in natural surroundings.

Accommodation

Seven tented chalets, split into Standard and Family, offer comfortable accommodation with each consisting of: a bedroom; bathroom with washbasin, w/c, and outdoor shower; front veranda with built-in seating that can sleep an additional guest, and a small sitting area. The tented walls of the chalets are colourful and blend-in well with the vibrant interiors. Chalets are named after the different species of dolphins that are found in the seas in this region. In-room facilities include a/c, overhead fans and tea/coffee facilities.

Standard Tents: Bedroom furnished with a built-in king-sized bed and a sofa that can sleep an additional guest.

Family Tents: Spacious. Consists of two bedrooms that share one bathroom. These tents can sleep up to five guests.

Facilities

Relax by the sea in the Dome – an ambalama with comfortable in-built seating that you can sink into with a chilled beer, ideal for taking in the sunset and watching the fishing boats on the horizon. There is cable TV in the office area for those interested in catching up with the news or the cricket. Sri Lankan rice and curries, grilled seafood dishes and BBQs are served here: fresh seafood including lobster, crab, and prawns are brought directly to the doorstep here by the local fisherman. Guests can bring their own alcohol. Dolphin Beach has two boats equipped with life jackets, back-up boats, back-up engines and rescue boats for whale and dolphin watching excursions. Other water-sports on offer include kite surfing, scuba diving, snorkelling, day and night fishing. There is no swimming pool here, but the sea right in front of the resort is safe for swimming during the season from December – April. Non-resident guests are also welcome to join in on the early morning whale/dolphin spotting boat trips followed by breakfast or lunch at the restaurant. Prior booking is required.

Why we like it

Tented chalets give a different eco feel to beach accommodation in Sri Lanka

Location

Dolphin Beach is a welcoming holiday retreat in the remote fishing village of Alankuda on the north west coast. The journey from Colombo’s international airport will take approximately three hours.