Positioned immediately above the golden sands of pristine Balapitiya beach, a serene stretch of palm-strewn coastline between Colombo and Galle, Kumu Beach is a tranquil bolthole with an atmosphere as relaxed as the pace of life here. The ten rooms and suites, a stone's throw from the sugar-soft sands, all feature spectacular ocean views, teak four poster beds and a pared back interiors masterminded by Sri Lankan designer Annika Fernando.
Alfresco dinners of coconut-crusted prawns or one of chef Wasabha's legendary curries can be enjoyed on the lawns under a star-filled sky or on the spider-lily fringed dining deck. As is common to the region, the strong tides make the sea here unsuitable for swimming, though the beach is ideal for leisurely strolls and paddles - and the 23-metre infinity pool is a simply stunning spot for those seeking to cool down completely.
