Sri Lanka, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, is an ideal destination for family vacations. From eco-lodges in the jungle to glitzy five-star beach resorts, Sri Lanka offers a wide range of family-friendly hotels that cater to all kinds of travelers.
We recently had the opportunity to visit Sri Lanka with our two-year-old toddler, and we were blown away by the country's warm hospitality and welcoming atmosphere. Our days were filled with exciting jeep safaris, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and exploring ancient temples and towns. While traveling with young children can be challenging, we found that Sri Lanka's family-friendly hotels made it easier for us to enjoy our trip without sacrificing quality time with our little one.
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Sri Lanka is its affordable accommodation options. We stayed in four- and five-star hotels, and most of them were under £100 per night. These hotels offered a range of amenities that catered to families, including lovely pools, decent breakfast buffets, and even cots or extra beds for kids.
For our first hotel, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams in Colombo, we loved the resort's mini-city feel, with shops, entertainment, swimming pools, and dining all under one roof. The pool with a stunning view of the Lotus Tower was a particular highlight for us, and while we didn't get to try out the Kids Club, it looked like a fantastic option for families.
At Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, located in the cultural triangle near Sigiriya, Pidurangala, and Minneriya National Park, we found a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. The grounds were alive with playful monkeys, exotic birds, and other wildlife, making it an ideal escape for families seeking a touch of the wild.
Another great option in Kandy was Grand Kandyan, a luxury family hotel that offered spacious rooms with balconies and a rooftop pool. We appreciated the large selection at the breakfast and dinner buffets, which catered to all tastes. The location made exploring Kandy easy, while providing a calm space to relax after a busy day.
For families taking the train from Kandy to the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, Araliya Green City was a great choice. While our room was spacious and comfortable, we did find that the cot provided was quite small for our toddler. However, there were plenty of other family-friendly amenities on offer, including a swimming pool and a daily schedule of activities.
If spotting elephants and leopards is on your family's wish list, EKHO Safari Tissa near Yala National Park is an ideal location for safaris in the park. The hotel offered stunning sunrise views and plenty of birdlife right outside our room, as well as two outdoor swimming pools, one with a shallower depth for kids.
Our final hotel was Araliya Beach Resort & Spa in Unawatuna, which offered everything we needed for a family-friendly beach vacation. With two swimming pools by the beach, including a kids' pool, and a large playground with slides, climbing frames, and swings, this resort ticked all the boxes.
Before booking a family hotel in Sri Lanka, it's essential to consider your children's needs and requirements. You may need cots or extra beds, as well as high chairs, which are not always guaranteed at all hotels. Some hotels offer kids' clubs and babysitting services, so it's best to inquire about these options in advance.
Overall, Sri Lanka offers a wide range of family-friendly hotels that cater to all kinds of travelers. From eco-lodges in the jungle to glitzy five-star beach resorts, there's something for everyone in this beautiful country. With its warm hospitality and welcoming atmosphere, Sri Lanka is an ideal destination for family vacations.
Looking for more travel inspiration for visiting Sri Lanka? Check out these posts: The Perfect Two-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary: Beaches, Safari and Culture How To Spend 1 Week In Sri Lanka: 7-Day Itinerary Sri Lanka With Kids: Family Itinerary and Top Things To Do What To Wear In Sri Lanka For Women And Men: Sri Lanka Packing Guide 10 Essential Tips For Travelling To Sri Lanka With A Baby Or Toddler
