Sri Lanka's BEST Surf: Ekho Bentota's Hidden Gem!
Ekho Bentota: My (Mostly) Love Affair with Sri Lanka's BEST Surf Hotel (Probably)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the (sea) beans about Ekho Bentota. Forget those perfectly curated Instagram feeds; this is the REAL deal. I’m talking sand in your sandals, the occasional power outage, and a love affair with a pool that made me want to live there. Is it the BEST surf hotel in Sri Lanka? Well, let's just say it gave me a run for my money (and I'm very hard to please).
First Impressions & Accessibility: The Good, the Slightly Grumpy & the Wheelchair… Question Mark?
Getting there? Easy peasy. Airport transfer? Yep, they've got it covered. Straight from the organized chaos of Colombo airport, a smooth ride and, boom, you’re at Ekho. (Side note: the driving in Sri Lanka is an experience. Hang on tight!)
As for accessibility… it's a mixed bag. The building's got an elevator, which is a huge plus for mobility. However, I didn’t spend hours meticulously analysing every inch for true wheelchair accessibility. I saw ramps in some areas, but the beach access? That's where it gets a little murky. The website mentions facilities for disabled guests, but I'd definitely call ahead if you're primarily wheelchair-bound to get a concrete understanding. Maybe I should have asked for a more in-depth check, but I was too busy mentally preparing to hit the waves! Access: A good start, but potential improvements needed.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe (mostly) is a Must!
Listen, post-pandemic, cleanliness is paramount. And Ekho Bentota… they're trying. They've got all the right buzzwords: daily disinfection in common areas, anti-viral cleaning products, hand sanitizer in every corner, and staff trained in safety protocol. Rooms sanitized between stays. They’ve got the hygiene certifications (presumably – I didn’t whip out a magnifying glass), and they’re taking it seriously.
Here’s where the real-world stuff kicks in: I saw staff wiping down surfaces, and I felt genuinely safe. I appreciated the small touches, like the sealed plastic covers on the coffee cups in my room. They are using many measures to keep guests safe. The hotel has a doctor on call (good to know, just in case my surfing skills decided to leave me stranded), and I spotted a first aid kit tucked away where it should be.
Safety is taken seriously here.
Rooms: My Cozy Sanctuary (Mostly Thanks to the A/C!)
Okay, let's talk room porn. (Well, maybe not porn, but you get the idea.) The rooms are… nice. Non-smoking rooms? Check. Air conditioning? HALLELUJAH! This is critical for survival in the Sri Lankan heat. The blackout curtains were a godsend, letting me sleep in (important for recovering from those epic surfing sessions, or, you know, jet lag).
My room had a desk (for pretending to work, even though I was mostly just staring out the window), a mini-bar (stocked with necessary refreshment!), a safe for my valuables, and complimentary tea. Small touches like bathrobes, slippers, hair dryer, and free wifi add to the comfort.
BUT (and there's always a "but," isn’t there?), my room wasn't perfect. The decor felt a little… generic. Room decorations that were… well, not show-stopping. The soundproofing wasn't what I'd call "military grade" (the occasional scooter noise trickled through). Plus, after a couple of days, the free bottled water seemed to, mysteriously, vanish! All minor quibbles, though.
The rooms, in short, were comfortable and well-equipped. The wifi was generally reliable, even if it wasn’t the absolutely blazing speed, but it was enough for my IG stories and essential emails! The rooms, though, were good. It’s a good place to get pampered, I'll tell you that. Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Surf Gods (and My Stomach!)
The restaurants at Ekho Bentota are… diverse. They've got it all: International cuisine in a restaurant, Asian cuisine, vegetarian options. A la carte is always available, and they've got buffet options. I particularly loved the poolside bar - Poolside bar is essential, let’s be real. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset (which, by the way, is spectacular) with a cocktail in hand.
The breakfast buffet was extensive, providing a decent mix of Western and Asian options - and the coffee wasn't the instant stuff. Breakfast service was on point with a good set-up. The coffee shop – well, I spent an embarrassing amount of time there.
The food quality? Generally good. I had a few meals that were scrumptious, and a couple that were… adequate. The snack bar worked a treat for the late-night munchies - the happy hour was even better. Considering the remoteness of the location, the restaurants were really very, very good. Snacks were also available. The bar and the food served at the poolside bar? Even better.
My only real complaint? I couldn't try everything on the menu (I'm not sure anyone could!).
Dining and drinking are pretty solid.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: More Than Just Surfing!
Alright, listen up, because this is where Ekho Bentota really shines. Sure, there's the surf (more on that later), but if you're not riding waves, you've still got OPTIONS!
Swimming pool? Absolutely stunning – the pool with a view, I was practically living in it! They also have a fitness center/gym/fitness, massage, sauna, spa, steamroom, etc. All that stuff comes in handy.
The Spa was lovely, although I'm not an expert in body scrubs, body wraps. After a rough day of surfing, there's nothing better than a full-body massage. Honestly, the massage was epic. They also were offering a foot bath.
Things to do, ways to relax are really great. The Pool is awesome. The spa? Even more awesome.
The Main Event: The Surf! (And My Slightly Embarrassing Attempt to Conquer It)
Let's be honest, the surf is the main draw here. Ekho Bentota is practically on the beach. And the waves? They were… well, let's just say they were challenging for this mediocre surfer.
But the point is, it's a perfect spot for surf lessons, or for experienced surfers, the waves are there for the riding. It’s not Malibu, but it's surfable.
The surf is the reason you're here. Make a note of it.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Make a Difference
Ekho Bentota gets the little things right: Daily housekeeping, laundry, dry cleaning, luggage storage, and concierge services are all available. I even spotted a convenience store for those essential condiments (yes, I'm talking about snacks). They have cash withdrawal available, and money currency exchange in case you need it.
Wi-Fi is free in all rooms, which is always a win. You could even host audio-visual equipment for special events or meetings/banquets.
The staff was friendly and helpful. And really, they were patient, especially when I was trying to order things after I’d been surfing!
The Perfect Storm: My Ekho Bentota Experience, the Good, the Bad, but Mostly Beautiful
Look, Ekho Bentota isn’t perfect. But its imperfections are part of its charm. It’s not a cookie-cutter resort. It’s a place with character, a place that’s designed for fun and relaxation, with an emphasis on surfing. It's not flashy, but it's comfortable.
My Verdict:
*Would I go back? Absolutely.
*Is it Sri Lanka’s BEST surf hotel? Possibly. Probably. Definitely worth the trip.
*My Recommendation: Book it. Now. You won’t regret it.
AND NOW… A COMPELLING OFFER (because what’s a review without a little marketing magic!)
Escape the Ordinary: Sri Lanka's BEST Surf Awaits at Ekho Bentota!
Tired of the same old vacation routine? Crave adventure, relaxation, and the thrill of riding the waves? Then it's time to discover Ekho Bentota – the hidden gem where paradise meets the perfect swell.
Here's what makes Ekho Bentota your dream getaway:
- Surf's Up: Experience the thrill of surfing right outside your door! From beginner-friendly waves to challenging breaks, Ekho Bentota is a surfer's paradise. **(You'll get a
Okay, buckle up Buttercup, because we're about to dive headfirst into the chaotic, sun-kissed, and utterly glorious mess that is a week at Ekho Surf Bentota, Sri Lanka. Forget pristine itineraries, this is the real deal. My brain kinda works like a beach – waves of inspiration crashing onto the shore of reality, leaving behind seashells and a faint smell of seaweed. So here we go…
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Coconut Calamity
Morning (7:00 AM -ish, after a sleepless flight fueled by airplane coffee): ARRIVAL! Colombo airport is a sensory overload in the best way possible. Heat? Check. Bustle? Check. The aroma of a thousand curries already wafting through the air? God yes. Finding my pre-booked airport transfer felt like a mini-quest. The driver, a charming man named Kumar, looked about as eager as I was to get out of the airport.
Mid-Morning (9:30 AM -ish): Road trip! The drive south to Bentota is a kaleidoscope of sights: vibrant markets spilling onto the roads, brightly colored houses, tuk-tuks buzzing like angry bees, glimpses of lush green rice paddies, and the hypnotic sway of coconut trees. It's beautiful, but the roads? Let's just say they're suggestive on what can be considered "lanes."
Afternoon (12:00 PM): Ekho Surf Bentota! Check-in was smooth-ish. Room? Simple, clean, with a balcony that promised sunsets over the ocean. I'm already envisioning epic photo ops, the ones that immediately get deleted from my camera roll after taking the first one.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening (2:00 PM -ish): The Great Coconut Calamity of 2024. I strolled down to the beach for a refreshing coconut. Picture the scene: me, blissful, leaning back, enjoying the sweet nectar of the gods. Then, THUNK. A coconut, seemingly from the sky (probably thanks to some mischievous monkeys), smacked me on the head. Not a concussion, but a definite "ouch" moment. The locals, bless their hearts, erupted in laughter. I, mortified, had to laugh too. Karma, I guess.
Evening (6:00 PM -ish): Dinner at the hotel. They have a buffet with this incredible seafood curry. Seriously, I ate enough to feed a small village. Stuffed, happy, and nursing a slightly swollen head. Good start.
Day 2: Surf's Up (or, More Accurately, Surf's…Down?)
Morning (7:00 AM -ish): "Learn to Surf" lesson. Let me be clear: I am not a surfer. More of a "wobble in the water" person. The instructor, a laid-back dude named Ravi, was incredibly patient. After about an hour of flailing, I managed to stand up…for about two seconds. Then, a wave decided I was a particularly interesting piece of seaweed, and I was promptly tumbled back into the depths. Humbling. Exhausting. And somehow, exhilarating.
Mid-Morning (9:30 AM -ish): Beach bumming. Sunscreen applied with religious fervor. Book in hand. The waves are actually pretty great to watch, perfect for beginner, and the sand is that gorgeous golden colour. Ah, the simple pleasures.
Afternoon (1:00 PM -ish): Lunch at a beach shack. Fresh grilled prawns, a cold Lion beer (the local brew), and the sound of the waves? Pure bliss. This is what it's all about.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM -ish): Exploration. Walked along the beach, past the colourful fishing boats, and encountered an adorable stray dog who decided I was his new best friend. He followed me for a good bit, then gave up, which was probably for the best.
Evening (7:00 PM -ish): Sunset drinks. Another truly epic sunset. Spent it on the balcony with a gin and tonic, contemplating the meaning of life (okay, maybe just what to eat for dinner). I had to move for the next day's activities, and this time, I was actually prepared!
Day 3: A River Cruise and a Lesson in Patience
Morning (9:00 AM -ish): River Safari. Booked a boat tour along the Bentota Ganga. Okay, this was actually breathtaking. We saw crocodiles (scary!), monitor lizards (huge!), kingfishers darting across the water, and a whole host of other wildlife. The mangrove forests were like something out of a movie.
Mid-Morning (11:00 AM -ish): Spice Garden Visit. This was part educational, part shopping opportunity. Learned about cinnamon (which I am now using in everything), cloves, cardamom, and other aromatic spices used in Sri Lankan cuisine. The “massage” they offered was a bit intense!
Afternoon (1:00 PM -ish): Lunch and Retail Therapy. Went to lunch at a local restaurant and then to shop along the main road (lots of textiles and gifts).
Late Afternoon (3:00 PM -ish): Back to the beach. More sun, more waves, and a growing appreciation for doing absolutely nothing.
Evening (7:00 PM -ish): Dinner at a restaurant along the main road. After all the adventure, this was perfect. Some of the best food in the world can be found in Sri Lanka.
Day 4: Turtle Hatchery and Emotional Rollercoaster
Morning (9:00 AM -ish): Turtle Hatchery. Visiting the turtle hatchery was… emotional. Watching these tiny baby turtles hatch out of their eggs and scurry towards the ocean was both heart-melting and heart-wrenching. There's a lot of work being done to protect these beautiful creatures.
Mid-Morning (11:00 AM -ish): Bentota Beach Exploration. Found a beautiful, almost deserted stretch of sand. Spent hours just wandering, collecting shells, and soaking up the silence.
Afternoon (1:00 PM -ish): Lunch at a restaurant. Found a beautiful restaurant, hidden away with incredible food and service.
Late Afternoon (3:00 PM -ish): Beach bumming. More sun, more waves, and more attempts at not getting sunburned.
Evening (7:00 PM -ish): Dinner at a restaurant. Tried some Sri Lankan traditional cooking, definitely one of the most memorable dinners so far.
Day 5: The Day the Beach Stole My Shoe
Morning (8:00 AM -ish): A walk along the beach.
Mid-Morning (9:00 AM -ish): Spent a little longer playing in the waves. But as I was coming out, I noticed I’d left one of my shoes behind!
Afternoon (1:00 PM -ish): Lunch.
Late Afternoon (3:00 PM -ish): Back to the beach to look for my shoe. No luck.
Evening (7:00 PM -ish): Dinner and a bit of shopping.
Day 6: Temple Time and a Touch of Culture
Morning (8:30 AM -ish): Got a Tuk-Tuk and went to a Temple.
Mid-Morning (10:30 AM -ish): Breakfast at the hotel.
Afternoon (1:00 PM -ish): Lunch and more shopping.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM -ish): Free time!
Evening (7:00 PM -ish): Dinner.
Day 7: Departure and the Sweet Sorrow of Goodbye (and maybe another coconut)
Morning (7:00 AM -ish): Pack. Sigh. Look out at the ocean one last time.
Mid-Morning (9:00 AM -ish): Final Sri Lankan breakfast. Devoured more curry. No regrets.
Late Morning (10:00 AM -ish): Check out and head to the airport. Try to soak in every last moment of the drive.
Afternoon (1:00 PM -ish): Airport. Sadness. The delicious food, the warm people, the coconut head injury… gone. (But the memories? Forever!)
Evening (8:00 PM -ish): Airplane. Back home. Already dreaming of a return trip!
This itinerary, as you can see, is a guideline, not a rigid schedule. Embrace the unexpected, the imperfections, and the sheer chaos of it all. Sri Lanka will surprise you, challenge you, and steal a piece of your heart. It certainly stole my shoe. But it was worth every moment. Now go, explore, and have the adventure of a lifetime!
Escape to Wheeling: Luxurious Stay at Hampton Inn & Suites The Highlands!
Ekho Bentota: The Unofficial Unfiltered FAQ (Because Official Stuff is Always Lies)
So, Bentota... Is it REALLY that good for surfing in Sri Lanka? Like, REALLY REALLY?
Okay, deep breath. Let's be honest, if you're expecting Cloudbreak, you're in the wrong damn country. Bentota isn't known for *massive* waves. But listen, the *best* surf? That's subjective, right? What's good for a newbie is torture for a pro. So, for consistent, fun, manageable waves? For learning? For feeling like you're actually *surfing* and not just getting tossed about by a grumpy ocean god? Bentota, and especially around the Ekho Bentota area? Yeah. It's pretty darn good. I learned there! And believe me, my first attempts were... well, let's just say the waves weren't the only things crashing. I ate a lot of sand. A LOT. But it was still amazing. The sun, the warm water... and the *feeling* of actually catching a wave, even a tiny one?! Absolute bliss.
What's the deal with *Ekho Bentota* specifically? Is it just some hotel trying to flog rooms?
Alright, alright, I get it. You're suspicious. Look, hotels *do* want your money, duh! But Ekho Bentota... it's got potential, let's be real. Its location is *fantastic*. It's right on the beach, practically *spitting* distance from the surf. I'm not gonna lie, when I first arrived, I was exhausted from the journey, and the sheer proximity to the waves was a godsend. No painful treks with your board, just a quick hop! It's not a luxury palace, mind you. It's more... relaxed. Think "chilled out vibes" rather than "polished perfection." And the views? Oh, man. I spent a whole afternoon just staring at the ocean, the palms swaying, the surfers bobbing up and down. God, I miss that. I should go back. Right now. (Okay, I'm getting distracted. Focus!)
What kind of waves can I expect? (Give me facts, not fluffy marketing BS!)
Okay, facts incoming. Bentota offers a reef break *and* beach breaks that are suitable for a range of surf skill levels. The reef break is generally a bit more challenging, with a bit of a paddle to get to it. The beach breaks are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers. You'll see a lot of longboarding, but shortboarding is definitely doable. The waves themselves? They're generally pretty mellow, but can pick up depending on the swell. Expect waves around 1-4 feet on average. The best time to surf is generally during the calmer season, between November and April, or when the swell is good. Check the surf reports before you go (obvious, right?), but remember, those things are notoriously unreliable! I once saw a report saying "flat" and when I arrived... it was clean, head-high perfection. I mean, the irony got me good.
Beginner Friendly? Really? Because I'm about as graceful as a drunken penguin on a skateboard.
YES! Absolutely. Bentota is PERFECT for beginners. The beach breaks are forgiving. The water is warm. There are tons of local surf schools and instructors who are patient and actually *want* you to learn. I mean, okay, I've seen the bad instructors too, the ones who just seem to want to get you on a board and then disappear. But generally, they are good. Look for someone who's attentive. My instructor, bless his heart, had the patience of a saint. He practically had to *drag* me out of the water after my first lesson because I was so ecstatic. He made me feel like a surfing god! (Narrator: He wasn't.) Honestly, that first week? I ate more salt water than any sane human should consume. But I got up a few times. And that feeling... the absolute high of standing up and riding a wave, even for a few seconds? Worth every single wipeout. Even the ones that left me feeling like I'd been through a washing machine on high.
Surf Schools and Rentals... Are they good? Expensive? Scammy? TELL ME EVERYTHING!
Good question! There are plenty of local surf schools in Bentota, and generally, the gear is decent. The boards aren't always the latest thing, but they're functional. Lesson prices are reasonable, though shop around. Don't be afraid to haggle a little, but be respectful! These guys are trying to make a living. Scammy? I've *heard* stories. Usually related to hidden fees or instructors disappearing mid-lesson. So, research your school before diving in. Read reviews, ask around. The best ones are run by locals who genuinely love surfing and want to share their passion. Trust your gut. If something feels off, walk away. There are plenty of other options! And the rentals? Mostly reasonable. Prices vary. Just make sure the board is in decent condition before you take it out. Check for dings, especially the nose and tail.
What about the crowds? Is it packed? Do I need to fight for waves?
Okay so... crowds. It depends! Bentota isn't *overrun*, but it's not exactly deserted either. The main breaks can get busy, especially during peak season. But there's usually enough space for everyone. Just be aware of other surfers, respect the lineup, and don't drop in on anyone (major surfing faux pas!). Early mornings usually offer the best surf and the fewest crowds. Get out there at sunrise! The light is beautiful, the water is glassy, and you'll have the waves (mostly) to yourself. Or, you could go to a slightly more secluded spot near the hotel.
The Weather! Sri Lankan weather... it's a whole other beast. What's the deal?
Weather is everything. Sri Lankan weather, as you said, is its own monster. Hot. Humid. And sometimes downright *surprising*. You are in the tropics right? The best surf season, generally, is from November to April. Expect sunshine, warm water, and consistent waves. But even within that period, conditions can change. Monsoons can dramatically alter things, by altering I mean bring massive storms. So keep an eye on the forecast. Don't let a little rain ruin your day though! The water is warm. Just pack some rash guards and a good rain jacket. And the sun? Don't underestimate it! The Sri Lankan sun is brutal. Slather on a *ton* of sunscreen, wear a hat, and reapply, reapply, reapply. I learned that the hard way, with a sunburn that rivaled a lobster.
