Sri Lanka family holidays

Best activities in Sri Lanka for families

Share remarkable memories with the whole family with a full watersports adventure on the West Coast. Start at Beira Lake within the heart of Colombo, enjoy a calming boat ride along the calm breezy atmosphere and witness the city in the best way, from the water. A short 10-minute tuk-tuk ride is all that’s needed to reach here.

Sri Lanka is also a top surf destination, so this is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka with the whole family. Arugam Bay is an hour or two taxi ride from the capital city and is world-renowned for surfing. From May to October, the resort town filled with friendly and hospitable bars and restaurants is a lively hotspot for locals and tourists combined. SAFA Surf Camp is a great tuition choice for packages of all levels.

To add a sprinkle of culture into an already jam-packed trip, hop on a tour or book a private taxi and head to the Cultural Triangle. With fascinating spots such as Sigiriya’s Rock and the Dambulla Cave Temple – both voted the most popular sightseeing locations within Sri Lanka – take a stroll and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the ancient cities. Treat your eyes to the remarkable wall carvings and colourful murals that a without a doubt worth witnessing at least once in your lifetime.

Best destinations in Sri Lanka for families

If travelling with younger children, we recommend staying on the West Coast near Colombo's capital city and hub airport. Most other provinces would require a longer transfer via car or bus, which are not suitable for families with young children. Resorts surrounding Colombo, like Negombo, only require a short transfer. The cultural beach-side city has plenty of family-friendly hotels – including the Club Hotel Dolphin and Tangerine Beach Hotel Resort – which all offer a kids club or kids entertainment, and even the luxury of a children's and adult swimming pools.

Best hotels in Sri Lanka for families

Club Hotel Dolphin in Negombo, in Western Sri Lanka near Colombo, is a perfect place to stay for families. This four-star all-inclusive hotel offers stress-free dining and entertainment for all ages with its pre-paid packages, perfect to make use of the à la carte restaurants or the easily accessible buffet. Designated kids pools and daily kids entertainment clubs are a perfect choice for the adults can rest, unwind and enjoy the Sri Lankan paradise. Choose from the Spa Centre, Don Renuka’s Art Gallery or the private tennis courts, all just a small slice of the vast offerings of activities available at this charming hotel.