The hype
Stunning architecture and a massive pool, but service can be island-slow and the food prices are steep.
Cinnamon Bentota Beach
$200-300 / nacht
Boek dit als You want to stay in a living art gallery designed by Geoffrey Bawa where the river meets the Indian Ocean.
Waarom mensen ervan houden
- The iconic batik ceiling in the lobby is a showstopper
- Massive pool complex that feels like a lake
- Unique location sandwiched between the Bentota River and the sea
Snel Overzicht: It's an architectural masterpiece, but the humidity brings a musty smell to some rooms and the nearby train line wakes you up early.
Beoordeeld door @Sanchyy993: I stayed here with the family and it was pure bliss. The transition from lush gardens to that massive beach is stunning. We spent hours just switching between the ocean and the pool. If you want a stress-free spot where the kids are happy, this is it.
Gast die hier verbleef zei
Reality check
Mosquitoes are a real nuisance in the gardens and ground floor terrace rooms.
- You appreciate mid-century tropical modernism and art
- You want a resort with a massive pool and direct beach access
- You are traveling with family (great kids club and pool)
Schoonmaak & Onderhoud
7.5
- Housekeeping: Generally good daily service, but they sometimes miss dust on the high Bawa-style ledges.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean, but aging grout and humidity can lead to a lingering mildew scent.
- Maintenance: The property was refurbished in 2019/2020 but the harsh sea air wears things down fast.
- Linens & towels: Crisp and white, though pool towels can run out on busy weekends.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of lemongrass; some ground floor rooms smell of damp earth.
Sleepability™
6.5GEMATIGD
0-4LUID
4-7.5GEMATIGD
7.5-10STIL
- Coastal train line (horns start early)
- Wedding/Banquet hall music
- Road noise from Galle Road
Voordat je boekt
Goed om te weten
- The sea is often too rough for swimming (red flag) outside of Jan-March
- Service charge and taxes can add ~30% to your final food/drink bill
- You can take a boat across the river to access other restaurants
Wat je mee moet nemen
- Strong mosquito repellent (gardens are buzzy)
- Earplugs (for the 5 AM train)
- Formal-ish resort wear (dinner buffet has a dress code)
Kamer Genie
Beste keuzes
- Luxury Seafront rooms (upper floors) for the best views and least noise
- Geoffrey Bawa Suite for a splurge with massive terrace and art
Kamers om te vermijden
- Ground floor 'Premium Terrace' rooms (prone to dampness and mosquitoes)
- River-facing rooms if you are sensitive to train noise
Kamer Aanvraag Genie – kopiëren en plakken
“I am a huge fan of Geoffrey Bawa's work and very excited to stay. Please assign a 'Luxury Seafront' room on the highest possible floor, strictly away from the banquet hall and the train line side to ensure quiet. I am sensitive to damp smells, so a well-aired upper room is appreciated.”
Veelgestelde vragen & Verborgen tips
Alles wat je eigenlijk wilt weten voordat je boekt.
Is the beach swimmable?
Only during the peak season (Nov-April). In monsoon months, the current is dangerous and red flags are up.
Is it all-inclusive?
No, but they offer Half Board and Full Board packages. Drinks are usually extra and pricey.
How bad is the train noise?
It's real. The track is just across the road. If you face the river, you will hear it. Ocean side is much quieter.
Is there a dress code for dinner?
Yes, 'smart casual' is enforced at dinner. No swimwear or tank tops in the main restaurants.
Can I walk to other restaurants?
Yes, there are a few spots like Malli's Seafood and The Wave within walking distance or a short tuk-tuk ride.
Does the hotel have a generator?
Yes, power cuts are common in Sri Lanka but the hotel has full backup power.
Tips van Insiders
- ✨
Walk to the 'Artisan Village' on-site to see local pottery and mask carving—it's often empty and very cool.
- ✨
The 'Fuze' bar has a secret cocktail menu if you ask the head bartender.
- ✨
Book a river safari directly from the water sports center attached to the hotel.
5 dingen die je moet weten voordat je gaat
💡The 'Insurance Premium' of ~$12/person might still appear on your bill—check if it's mandatory.
💡The walk from the lobby to the furthest rooms is long and not fully covered from rain.
💡Monkeys can and will enter your balcony if you leave the door open.
💡The 'river view' is actually a view of the road, the train tracks, AND the river.
💡You can hear the temple chanting from across the river in the early morning (peaceful for some, noise for others).
Lokaal Playbook
Kaart
Bekijk waar Cinnamon Bentota Beach zich bevindt en wat er in de buurt is.