Independent in Pottuvil Division 2 from AU$38

"There was a problem with our reservation as apparently hotels.com bookings do not transfer over to the hotels system and therefore they had no record of our booking. This meant that they did not have the rooms that we had booked available. The hotel owner/manager was very helpful in finding us different rooms but these were not what had been reserved and meant that we had to separate family members which was not ideal for a week. Other than that the breakfast was good, the rooms were clean and beds were comfy. The pool was really nice (although the area around it could be improved) and the location was perfect for access to the beach and restaurants. "

"The hotel had been abandoned. We managed to check-in but there have been no staff onsite since. A local has told us that the Indian company that owns the hotel has not paid the local staff wages and they have been forced to leave. The hotel is filthy, there is literally no staff anywhere to be seen. "

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An Unforgettable Stay in Paradise – New Tristar Hotel, Arugam Bay We had the absolute pleasure of staying at the New Tristar Hotel in Arugam Bay for 4 nights, from 29th June to 3rd July, and it was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the outstanding staff and the incredible manager, Arooz. His attentiveness, kindness, and genuine care made us feel right at home and truly elevated our experience. Our room was spotless and well-equipped, with efficient air conditioning, a working fridge and kettle, and 24-hour hot water in the shower — all the comforts you’d want while staying by the sea. The cleanliness and efficiency throughout the hotel were of the highest standard. Each morning, we were treated to a delicious breakfast featuring a fragrant mix of Sri Lankan specialties alongside comforting European favorites — a perfect start to each day. But the real highlight was the location. The hotel is directly on the beach, and we were lucky enough to watch the sunrise over the ocean right from our balcony — an unforgettable view that will stay with us for a long time. A heartfelt thank you to Arooz and the entire team for making our stay so memorable. Your warm hospitality and attention to detail made all the difference. We left feeling relaxed, recharged, and already looking forward to our next visit. "

"Great stay at Roccos. Staff was great. Quiet as it was the end of the surfing season. Will go there again."

"There is ongoing work to improve the hotel. The pool is round the back but didn't use it. Breakfast was good. It was quiet season so think we were the only ones staying so unfair to judge too harshly. There was a wasp nest a few metres from the room but didn't worry us as it is Sri Lanka after all. Staff were very friendly. "