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.
The infinity pool comes complete with sunken bench seating, swaying hammocks and a dazzling sea view. Just across the lawns, you'll find Kumu Beach's dining area, outside on the timber deck lined with lilies or in the coolness of the stylish cafe. Enjoy the all-day menu then swap it out for a la carte choices at dinnertime including Asian fusion, freshly-caught seafood and mouthwatering Sri Lankan curries. The communal lounge is a bevy of plump grey couches and artsy decor, and the Z Spa offers a selection of treatments drawing on the benefits of the island's famous teas.
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.
Soak up the views on Balapitiya Beach, take a dip in the sea (when it's not too rough) and snap a pic of the setting sun from boulders dotting the sand - this is the 'sunset coast' after all. Take to the water with a boat trip on the Madu Ganga, lined with mangrove forests, and stop at one of the fragrant cinnamon estates. If you visit in season, you can even see endangered turtles hatching at the estuary! In nearby Ambalangoda, visit a fascinating mask museum and have a go at carving your own.
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.
Head south of Colombo for superb beaches, jungle-scapes and chic hotels to make your heart sing.
/80.0368766,6.2553709,6/600x400?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidGltYnVrdHV0cmF2ZWwiLCJhIjoiY2poMGw1eHpkMmRkbDJ6bW8xYWZ5OGpjYyJ9.PYvAO7lUJ40SOpGvwmQLqw&attribution=false&logo=false)
