From Hikkaduwa to Hiriketiya: where to stay on the South Coast of Sri Lanka
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Sri Lanka’s South Coast is teeming with enriching activities, sparkly experiences and raw natural beauty. This is a common belt for travelers, which means that there is lots of choice when it comes to accommodation. We have selected a few of our favourite places to stay for you. With beautiful gardens, welcoming hosts, great food and exciting things to do - these should definitely be on your list!
1. Earthlinks in Hikkaduwa, South Coast
Earthlinks is a gorgeous surf & yoga retreat in a colonial-style bungalow in Hikkaduwa. Aside from daily surf and yoga, the retreat includes: diverse and delicious vegan meals and a chance to learn how to prepare it, meditation sessions, ayurvedic treatments and other interesting activities like Tibetan singing bowls sessions, mandala painting classes, sightseeing, and bongo classes. 
2. Banana Leaf in Hikkaduwa, South Coast
This guest house is run by Hannah and Amila, who have created a home for travellers that is a lovely blend of Sri Lankan and European touches. This is a place where monkeys drop by for breakfast, lush vegetation surrounds you and the adventurous can use local knowledge to explore and discover the true Sri Lanka. The guest house has bright and spacious apartments, guest rooms and offers surf lessons and personalized tours through the island. 
3. Chami's Place in Hikkaduwa, South Coast
This gorgeous homestay is a back to basics adventure as you enjoy a super comfy stay in a rustic bamboo house. Close to the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef, with jungle all around, your stay here will take you close to nature. An ideal getaway for solo travelers, this place is known to attract creatives like artists and musicians who come here and make magic! 
4. Pilgrims Hostel in Galle, South Coast
For the culturally motivated traveler, a stay in Galle Fort in a must. What better place to camp out than in this backpacker’s haven with an authentic Italian pizzeria! You can enjoy a comfortable stay and meet fellow travelers and explore the quaint shops, museums and take in the surreal sunsets from the historic Galle Fort. 
5. Secret Garden Villa in Unawatuna, South Coast
Secret Garden is a tropical, boutique B&B located close to Unawatuna beach. True to its name, the little wooden door at the entrance unveils a jungle vista like no other, completely hidden away from the bustle.The owner, Simona brings the warmest hospitality to the table, and we mean that quite literally as she is known to join the tables together so that all the guests can eat and get to know each other, turning into a cosy family overnight.
6. Plantation Surf in Midigama, South Coast
Plantation Surf is a cosy, family-run accommodation, consisting of rooms, cottages and an in-house restaurant. It’s an ideal place for surf-enthusiasts to stay at, being really close to several great break points at an easily accessible distance from the house. The house is set in a well maintained garden. You can pluck a coconut or bananas right from your room balcony!