Uga Bay, Sri Lanka

The spacious Mediterranean style Beach Studios each have direct access to the beach, all situated on the ground floor of the hotel. Ocean Studios can be found on the first floor and are perfect for those wanting uninterrupted ocean views and a private balcony from which to enjoy the stunning Sri Lankan sunsets, sundowner in hand. For more privacy and space, Bay Suites and Two Storey Beach Villas come with their own plunge pools, direct beach access and ocean views. The Beach Villas are especially suited to families and groups due to the large master bedroom and separate second bedroom with twin beds.

Fresh ‘caught-that-day’ seafood is bought in by local fisherman daily, in line with the hotels focus on locally grown organic produce. Local dishes from the east coast as well as traditional Sri Lankan curries and Asian fare can be enjoyed at the main restaurant which overlooks the infinity pool and ocean beyond. Whilst at Uga Bay, it’s all about you and your body clock and the team very much encourage guests to eat when you are hungry, rather than being constrained by set meal times. Private dining options are available too.

Unique in Sri Lanka is Uga Bay’s underground spa – complete with large windows and ocean views. The Uga Bay spa therapists specialise in a mix of local Ayurvedic, Asian and European techniques. Al fresco treatments are also available in the hotel’s poolside cabanas.

For those looking for more than sun and pampering, jet skiing, sailing and diving are all available to guests of Uga Bay. Snorkelling is also an option although sadly due to years of coral mining, the marine life is not as abundant as it once was. Passikudah Bay itself stretches for two kilometre and the first half kilometre is calm, safe and great for swimming. Further afield is Batticaloa Lagoon, a 65km stretch of coastline to the south of Passikudah. The lagoon is a great spot for bird watching due to its biodiversity of flora and fauna.