Up a slope from Balapitiya Beach, awash with frothing waves, Kumu Beach has unbroken views of the Indian Ocean. In shades of white and blue, unfussy but elegant furnishings fill the communal areas - whimsical art like giant copper globes and abstract floral paintings. With just 10 bedrooms, the hotel feels quite intimate and you'll rarely see another soul on the powdery beach. The south coast of Sri Lanka is a collection of picturesque bays, which warrant endless strolls, and the Madu Ganga River is a lovely spot for a boat trip.




With soft brown furnishings, blue batik cushions and herringbone rugs, the rooms at Kumu have a sublime feel. The Oceanview rooms/suites have four-poster beds draped in sheer netting with slatted teak headboards, large wardrobes and sunken lounges with wide picture windows and open onto furnished balconies or garden terraces with a view of the sea. The Kumu Bedrooms are smaller but come with twin beds and a rain shower. The en-suite bathrooms are lovely yet simple with pebble floors in the shower and double basins.
Every inch of Kumu Beach feels hand-picked and it makes for a lovely home-away-from-home.
Don't miss the guided walk through Lunuganga, the country estate of legendary Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa.
Kumu Beach is rather secluded, which is a blessing most of the time, but it does mean there aren't many restaurant options if you fancy dining elsewhere.
Kumu Beach can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Sri Lanka trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Sri Lanka trips featuring Kumu Beach or get advice and suggestions from one of our Sri Lanka specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Kumu Beach start from around $450, or US$450, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

Head south of Colombo for superb beaches, jungle-scapes and chic hotels to make your heart sing.