Go-To Guide to the south coast of Sri Lanka
From jungle brunches to linen treasure troves, sunset cocktails to post-surf egg sandwiches - here’s my cheeky-luxe + sun-drenched list of favourite spots in Sri Lanka. Mostly south coast, mostly delicious, always vibey. Save this for your next trip, or just dream big (theres a Yoga Nidra practice - visionspace that can help you get there!).
Ahangama:
The Palm
The first Place I ever stayed when I arrived on this island, and one I keep returning to - cabanas that look like witches hats and peacocks in the garden. Book yourself in for a pool day if you are on a more budget tip.
Soul + Surf
The sweetest spot out in the cove, with the most fun a sunday can see at their parties. And a shala that overlooks the sea.
The Kip
Boujie brunch in a garden that looks like a Pinterest board. The genuinely difficult thing here choosing off their brunch menu - recommend going with a pal and doing the whole menu.
Baboos Ocean Café
Big plate buffet for tiny money. Ocean views and full tummies.
Lighthouse Ahangama
Sunset cocktails bonus points for the view and salty breeze.
Ayurvedic Pharmacy
No-frills massage. You’ll float home oily and loose.
Marshmallows Café
Sea views. incredible cakes. Ridiculous fluffy pancakes.
Trax Club
A rave in the jungle, honestly. Go for the party, but first load up good food. Best of both worlds.
Casa Tikiri
Beautiful garden vibes and laid-back Italian plates. Ideal for slow dinners and deep chats under the stars.
Veda Café
Ayurvedic breakfasts served with soul. Get the herbal tea too — it’s magic.
Mukti (by Evy Ferraro)
Uber-babe Evy (who I trained in MFR with and have co taught on a couple of immersions with), sells divine linen and gorgeous trinkets, and basically creates a sanctuary for your soul.
Riska Jeweller
They make what you want. Legend-level results.
Tailor near Riska/Sampath’s Shop
This tailor is elite. Had bits made here years ago that are still going strong. Bring linen, bring ideas or your fave big business bits to copy.
Midigama:
Lotus Surf House
The spot I keep returning to - we head back to retreat again this feb - making it 3 winters that the funny AF mother and Son team of Hels and Liam have tended to me. The best breakfasts ever, the sweetests shala, dogs and the est surf coaching I’ve ever recieved - a confidence giving kind of holding out on the waves. Its a spiritual thing you know?
Soul spa
There are massages, then there are body workers who unleash other magic quietly whilst working on you and really know how to read your body. What goes on here is definitely not your classical massage but something bigger and deeper. Make sure you book yourself in.
Mr. Sunil’s
Order the egg sandwich and definitely the chocolate roti. No notes. OH AND JUMPING CRABS ON THE ROCKS - WTAF??
Abode
Sunsets, sushi, tacos and the perfect cocktail after a wavey day.
Weligama:
ApSara Swimwear
Custom suits that fit real bodies. I have two (hello, monkey arms) and I’d go back for more in a heartbeat.
Locale
Cocktails and dinner that feel like a date with your dream self.
Beach break bumps
Small waves and a sandy bottom to the sea - my kind of spot for a surf
Galle:
Fort Printers
Some of the best food I’ve had on the island. Elegant. A proper treat.
Sixty One Fabric Shop
Go straight to the top floor. It’s linen heaven, and they’ll help you source what you need. Bring a tailor’s wish list.
Hiriketiya:
Mond
Everything’s beautiful, on the plate and around it. Their design sense is A++.
Small Bay Beach
Gentle waves, loungers, a book, and no pressure to move. Just float.
Black Pepper
For your hit of incredible local food. Spicy, soulful, and so affordable.
Playa
Very good gelato and even better people watching.
Heads up: The main bay can get a bit people soup at peak times so go early or embrace the crowd.
Dikwella:
Dikwella Beach
It’s massive, quiet, and ridiculously beautiful. You’ll wonder why no one else is there. Don’t tell them.
Fruit Market
Massive, cheap, joyful. Stock up like you’re feeding a family of ten.
Smoke and Bitters
A very good cocktail bar — vibey, clever, and perfect for a golden hour drink.
Verse Collective
Laptop-friendly (sometimes you have to stay on top of life back home!), good coffee, and a nice mix of mellow and buzzy.
Now Go Book That Ticket
Let me know what you add to the list….