Memo’s Beach

Introduction

Memo’s Beach is one of the most strikingly original small hotels in Sri Lanka and brings an independent flavour to the east coast beach resort of Nilaveli. Cute bohemian chic characterises a cosy beach-side property with a chilled-out vibe that makes artistic use of traditional coastal colours, wooden walls and floors, distressed doors and natural, rustic furniture. Relax in the café-style restaurant and be lulled to sleep by the sound of the ocean waves. But there is more to Memo’s than just a quaint, well thought-out atmosphere and caring attention to detail. It lives by its beliefs: bohemian, ethical, eco-friendly, animal-loving and committed to female empowerment, with Kris and Betta employing only women in a powerful statement of equality, perhaps uniquely so in Sri Lanka. Shabby chic the rooms may be, but there is nothing shabby about Memo’s commitment to providing a delightful stay for the progressive traveller. A commitment to sustainability is seen in minimal use of plastic and use of environmentally-sound, locally-sourced materials.

Accommodation

All seven rooms and suites are brightly furnished in coastal blue tones with distressed furniture. Rooms have beds as stated below, with mosquito nets, attached bathroom with shower and toiletries, a/c, Wi-Fi, towels and beach towels, air dryer, mini fridge, kettle and tea/coffee facilities. There are no TVs.

Family Suite (28 sq m plus mezzanine): This room is ideal for a family who opt for additional space and togetherness rather than a sea view. The main room has a queen bed and, on the mezzanine, there are two more small doubles which can sleep two small children each. (There may be an additional charge for more than two children).

Two-Bedroom Suite (28 sq m): This room is ideal for a family who choose privacy rather than sea view and space. The main room has a queen bed. An inter-connecting door connects to another little room with 2 small double beds in which one is situated on a mezzanine. This two-room suite can be booked separately. (There may be an additional charge for more than two children).

Deluxe Side Sea View 1 and Deluxe Sea View 2: These beautiful rooms are made from local wood and have a high roof which allows for a spacious mezzanine with 1 single and a small double mattress placed on the mezzanine's frame. The space is recommended for children seven years and above. The room has a small balcony and a sea view.

Superior Sea View and Super Sea View 2 (28 sq m): “Bohemian chic” is how Memo’s describes its two feature rooms: it is a phrase that might encapsulate the entire property. White panelled wooden walls, a mezzanine floor with two single beds that can be pulled together and a balcony with sea view and great sun rises. Recommended for children seven years and above.

Facilities

Memo’s is a beach front property with Nilaveli’s white sands and often gentle seas (safe for most of the year) compensating for the absence of a swimming pool. Relax instead in a sun hammock or on the beach. The breakfast menu changes daily and main meals mix Southern Italian, Sri Lankan Tamil and international influences. Enjoy a choice of healthy home-made drinks or BYO alcohol. The ethical approach to Memo’s is also seen in the number of pampered street dogs and cats resting peaceably about the café restaurant.

Why we like it

We love Memo’s strong sense of identity and relaxed commitment to ethical living.

Location

Memo’s has a great spot on the Nilaveli beach strip, just north of Trincomalee on Sri Lanka’s east coast. Up to six hours from the international airport.