The hype
Guests are obsessed with the views and the pool, but almost everyone mentions the property is 'tired' and needs a facelift.
Dickwella Resort & Spa
$100-200/ night
Book this if You want a prime oceanfront location between two stunning beaches without paying Amanwella prices, and you don't mind 'faded glory' vibes.
Why People Love It
- Incredible peninsula location surrounded by the ocean on three sides
- Walkable access to both Dickwella Beach (quiet) and Hiriketiya Bay (surf/trendy)
- Saltwater pool with panoramic sea views
Quick Take: A location-10 resort trapped in a condition-6 body that desperately needs a renovation.
Reviewed by @priti_goundar: I stayed at Dickwella Resort and the ocean views were just insane—literally panoramic from my bed. The seafood dinner was a highlight, absolutely delicious. It’s a bit far south but totally worth it for the peace and quiet. You have to go!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are paying for the peninsula location, not modern luxury; expect 1990s vibes in the rooms.
- You prioritize ocean views over modern room decor
- You want a resort pool that actually feels like a resort pool
- You need a family-friendly base to explore the south coast
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable, but they are fighting a battle against age and humidity.
- Bathroom hygiene: The weakest link. Expect old grout, rust on fixtures, and 'tired' tiles, even if sanitized.
- Maintenance: Peeling paint and worn wood are common on room exteriors and balconies.
- Linens & towels: Clean but often worn/thin. Don't expect fluffy 5-star Egyptian cotton.
- Odors & scents: Generally fresh ocean breeze, but some ground floor rooms can smell slightly musty due to humidity.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Crashing waves (loud but pleasant)
- Occasional construction/maintenance noise during the day
Before you book
Good to know
- It's a 15-20 minute walk or 5-minute tuk-tuk ride to Hiriketiya Bay (the trendy surf spot)
- The hotel is 'dry' on Poya days (full moon), like all of Sri Lanka
- Monkeys and squirrels are active on the grounds—keep your balcony door locked
What to pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen (expensive to buy locally)
- Mosquito repellent (essential for evenings)
- Your own conditioner/toiletries (hotel provided ones are basic)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Superior Rooms (42 sqm) - worth the upgrade over Standard for the extra space and better balconies
- Sea View Rooms on the upper floor for the best privacy and unobstructed ocean vistas
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Rooms on the ground floor near the main restaurant (can be noisier and feel less private)
- Rooms facing the 'lagoon' side if you want the open ocean breeze
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a Superior Room on the upper floor with a direct ocean view, away from the main restaurant noise. Please ensure the bathroom has been recently checked for maintenance issues.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool saltwater or chlorine?
It is a saltwater pool, which many guests find more pleasant than heavy chlorine.
Can I walk to Hiriketiya Beach?
Yes, it's about a 1.6km (15-20 min) walk, but the road can be dark at night, so a tuk-tuk is recommended after sunset.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, but check your specific booking. The buffet is extensive with both Western and Sri Lankan options (hoppers, curries).
Are there hidden fees?
Watch out for the mandatory Christmas and New Year's Eve gala dinner supplements, which can add $200-$300 to your bill for a couple.
Is there a gym?
Yes, there is a fitness center, but equipment is described as basic and somewhat dated.
Do the rooms have AC?
Yes, all rooms have air conditioning, though some guests report it can be noisy.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk to the 'Turtle Point' on the Dickwella beach side in the morning; you can often see turtles feeding in the shallows.
- ✨
Skip the hotel lunch and walk to 'Verse Collective' for better coffee and food.
- ✨
The 'Family Rooms' are duplex style, which is great for separation but bad if you have toddlers (stairs).
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Standard' rooms are significantly smaller (31 sqm) than 'Superior' (42 sqm) and feel much more cramped.
💡The hotel grounds are huge and great for walking, but lighting at night is dim—bring a phone torch.
💡You might spot monitor lizards roaming the gardens (they are harmless but large).
💡The TV reception and picture quality are often poor, but you shouldn't be watching TV here anyway.
💡The 'Pizzeria' on-site is actually decent if you get tired of curry, using a stone oven.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Dickwella Resort & Spa is located and what's nearby.