Dolphin Beach

Comfortable, stylish tents on a swathe of golden beach, with pods of playful dolphins a short boat ride away

Camping is not what is used to be - just look at Dolphin Beach, Sri Lanka’s first tented hotel. Just 2 hours north of Colombo airport, it is set on a sandy strip demarcated by coconut trees, and lies between a lagoon and a golden-sand beach. Custom-made from outdoor living experts in Rajasthan, the 7 sleeping tents are shaded by over-hanging coconut thatch and make use of natural materials such as wood, rope and bamboo. Cool, airy interiors are decorated with mirrored fabrics, and large sea-facing verandas with L-shaped padded sofas are a restful place to enjoy the natural environment.

Dolphin Beach is a more luxurious and intimate option than its sister hotel, Bar Reef, a short walk along the shore, but they both share the same stunning vista: a minimalist triptych of sand, sea and sky. The beach gently shelves into the calm sea, which is ideal for swimming. The grounds are scattered with comfy places to unwind - hammocks strung beneath palms, and stylish fibreglass loungers. Even nicer is the sea-facing dome: a circular chill-out lounge decorated with cushions and topped with a grass roof. Watch wonderful sunsets from here then set your alarm clock: the early morning sea safari is a must for a glimpse of the playful resident dolphins, and if you're lucky, whales too.

Highs

• Roomy tents mean a sense of outdoor living and contact with nature without compromising on luxury
• Tasty Sri Lankan options at every mealtime
• Only 2 hours from Colombo international airport so an ideal first or last stop of your holiday
• Good for kids: family tents sleeping up to 6, calm seas and child-friendly food; and good value too
• The area is blissfully off the tourist trail so there are no souvenir shops, beach bars or nightlife

Lows

• No swimming pool yet, although guests are free to use the infinity pool at Bar Reef
• Noise between tents is audible
• Views from the beach are rather spoilt by the dominating power station jutting out to sea
• Uneven roads mean a bumpy end to your destination