Frequently asked questions

May to September. While the south and west of Sri Lanka are under the southwest monsoon, the east coast is at its calmest — flat water, reliable sun, and the clearest snorkelling of the year. February to April is second best and adds blue whales. October to December is our wet season and our cheapest.

Six hours by road. We arrange a car and a driver for LKR 28,000 who will stop at Dambulla or Sigiriya on the way if you want. The train to Trincomalee takes about eight hours and is beautiful; we meet it at the station free of charge.

Always, in every rate. String hoppers, egg hoppers, pol sambol, seasonal fruit, and real coffee, served on the terrace until half past ten. If you are leaving before six for a whale boat, the kitchen packs it to take.

From February to April the continental shelf brings them close to shore. Boats leave at three in the morning and are usually back by nine. We book through the same boatman we have used for eleven years, at his price, with no commission added.

Free until 48 hours before arrival. After that we charge the first night. If you have a flight cancellation or a genuine emergency, tell us — we are a small hotel and we listen.

No. We are a twelve-room boutique hotel, not a resort — new, comfortable and small. If a spa and a pool bar are what you are after, we are honestly not it, and we would rather say so now than have you find out on arrival.

Children of any age, yes — ask for a cot when you book and we will tell you what we can do. Please ask us about pets before you book rather than on arrival.

From May to September the bay is flat and swimming is excellent at any hour. In October and November the sea builds and it is not always sensible — ask at the desk before you go in. There is no lifeguard on the beach.