Tangalle South Coast Villas for Rent | Sri Lanka Luxury Rental Villas - list view

Ocean’s Edge

Ocean’s Edge feels very remote, isolated even, but its 23 acres of grounds, not to mention a near deserted strip of tropical beach, more than compensate for any lack of nearby amenities. Tangalle, the nearest town, is 21 kilometres away and until recently was the only option for eating out, but a slow wave of development along neighbouring Rekawa and Ranna beaches means that hotel restaurants are now opening up closer to the villa.

As if mimicking its surroundings, Ocean’s Edge is very spacious and bright, its tall arched doorways allowing plenty of light and air to infiltrate. The bedroom configuration is particularly good for families as the master interconnects with one of the guest rooms and all of the upstairs bedrooms can easily accommodate a cot. The master’s anteroom – used as a TV or reading lounge – has its own bathroom (with tub) and could also be used to sleep a child if required.

The beach – which is ideal for walking and jogging – is around 50 metres beyond the front of the villa. The sea here is usually too rough for swimming but the lovely pool more than makes up for this. If you do want a dip in the ocean we recommend you head towards Tangalle, whose westerly beaches are better for bathing. The garden is perfect for fun and games (there are a few cricket bats and balls at the villa).

The staff made sure we had everything we needed. The kitchen is well equipped so although you do have a cook at your disposal (his Sri Lankan dishes are very popular), self-catering is entirely possible and the staff will shop for anything you require on a cash and receipt basis.

From Ocean’s Edge you can easily embark on half-day trips to nearby bird or turtle sanctuaries and national parks; the staff can arrange transport.

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From $660

Bedrooms 4

Sleeps 8-9*

Our
Rating 7.2 Guest Rating 8.7

The Beach House

Sri Lanka » South Coast » Tangalle

The Beach House is a total retreat from the outside world. Its tranquility is heavenly and it’s an excellent choice for a family who are looking for simple back-to-basics beach living without the distraction of TVs and other mod cons. Artists, writers and anyone with a creative mind or reclusive leanings will, unsurprisingly, find much to adore here, and guests get plenty of pampering from the barely-there staff headed by Dhammika, the shy chief houseboy.

The house has a unique design that suits its environment and embraces both the views and the sea breezes. It’s ridiculously quirky and we loved how Johnson’s eccentric artwork ensured that his presence lives on. The two studio rooms are quite secluded – great for adventurous teens wanting independence from their parents, or a couple looking for a little extra privacy. Do note though that The Blue Room is very small.

Although the Beach House is as characterful, timeless and restful as ever, it is looking a little run down since our first visit. A lick of paint would do it good, weatherworn soft furnishings could be replaced and we noticed that some of the mosquito screens above the windows were clogged with dust. For its price, this is a bit of a letdown – reflected in our revised value score.

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TBA

Bedrooms 5

Sleeps 10

Our
Rating 7.6

Kadju House

Sri Lanka » South Coast » Tangalle

We thought that Kadju House would be ideal for anyone looking for some serious R&R – especially as it comes with its own ayurvedic spa: an excellent addition, especially as the villa’s location is so tranquil. A locally-renowned Ayurvedic doctor can come and consult guests, and prescribe treatments based on his findings. Relaxing massages and herbal baths can also be arranged.

Not only is the location very intimate and private, the pool enchanting and the rooms cosy, but the staff really pamper you during your stay. The villa adapts itself well to many types of holiday; bliss on the beach, a secluded retreat, or a base from which to explore the local area. The conviviality of the lounge and bar makes Kadju House a great choice for a group of friends, and nature lovers will appreciate the visiting wildlife – we saw kingfishers and humming birds, and heard peacocks - and many of the southern wildlife parks and reserves are within easy reach. The villa’s proximity to the beach makes it a good family villa too, though possibly better suited to older children as the steps and railings might be a worry for toddlers and young children (or, indeed, for some more elderly visitors). Although the suites are quite similar in style, the views and bathroom set up of each is unique; we loved the tropical bathroom design that merges inside with out – just be prepared for the occasional visiting frog!

A staff of five effortlessly kept the house in order and offered us a high level of personalised service, carrying out our requests with ease. Staff were discreet though friendly, and their charm seemed to be a reflection of the instinctive hospitality and warmth that comes naturally to the people of this deep south region. On our most recent visit a new cook had joined the staff. Her Sri Lankan cuisine was great, and she is experienced in a number of western dishes as well. Many herbs and vegetables are grown in the villa’s increasingly large home garden, and where possible, used in your meals. Meals are charged to guests at cost price.

Although the house works very well for larger groups, it’s also suitable for couples or small families, as it can be rented as a two bedroom property for a special discounted rate. This makes it great value.

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TBA

Bedrooms 5

Sleeps 10

Our
Rating 7.5

Kurumba House

Sri Lanka » South Coast » Tangalle

What a great beachside bolthole; simple, unfussy and most importantly, very relaxed. Minimal clothing, stacks of books and an iPod are all you’re ever going to need to bring with you on a visit to Kurumba House, if that. Its idyllic seaside situation was quiet and peaceful. The good-natured staff team immediately enveloped us on arrival meaning that for most of our stay our feet were nowhere near the ground, though this was due in large part to the surplus of comfy seating and the fact that we could gaze out at the ocean even whilst lying in bed. Tekla cooked enthusiastically (provisions are on guest account) though if you fancy cooking for yourself then the staff will happily go out shopping on your behalf if you furnish them with a list. Tangalle is a very laid back beach resort with few places to go out and eat – there’s only one restaurant along Mawella Beach – but this matches the property’s nature perfectly. Kurumba has very few facilities (no swimming pool, TVs or music systems) however with a beach to explore, a sea to enjoy and a beautiful climate to soak up this is the type of place you visit to escape the distractions of everyday life.

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TBA

Bedrooms 1

Sleeps 2

Our
Rating 7.0 Guest Rating 7.8

Kurumba House

Sri Lanka » South Coast » Tangalle

What a great beachside bolthole; simple, unfussy and most importantly, very relaxed. Minimal clothing, stacks of books and an iPod are all you’re ever going to need to bring with you on a visit to Kurumba House, if that. Its idyllic seaside situation was quiet and peaceful. The good-natured staff team immediately enveloped us on arrival meaning that for most of our stay our feet were nowhere near the ground, though this was due in large part to the surplus of comfy seating and the fact that we could gaze out at the ocean even whilst lying in bed. Tekla cooked enthusiastically (provisions are on guest account) though if you fancy cooking for yourself then the staff will happily go out shopping on your behalf if you furnish them with a list. Tangalle is a very laid back beach resort with few places to go out and eat – there’s only one restaurant along Mawella Beach – but this matches the property’s nature perfectly. Kurumba has very few facilities (no swimming pool, TVs or music systems) however with a beach to explore, a sea to enjoy and a beautiful climate to soak up this is the type of place you visit to escape the distractions of everyday life.

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TBA

Bedrooms 2

Sleeps 4

Our
Rating 7.0 Guest Rating 7.8

Maya

Sri Lanka » South Coast » Tangalle

Maya is so refreshing; it’s easy to wax lyrical about how great this property is. What we really loved though was its uniqueness; it’s a labour of love that’s been designed with so much thought it’s like no-where else in Sri Lanka. The quality of the craftsmanship really complements the owner’s striking designs, and great care taken over even the smallest of details. The result is a property that’s sophisticated, unpretentious and completely in its own world.

We thought Maya’s staff were excellent too. Most have quite a few years experience within the boutique hotel industry in Sri Lanka and it shows as they worked efficiently as a team, and anticipated our needs. The chef was one of the best we've encountered of any villa in Sri Lanka. His dishes – full of flavour and artfully presented – really added to our stay. Since ingredients can sometimes be tricky to find in Tangalle, he creates a daily menu based on what’s available, although you’re welcome to make suggestions.

People come to Maya not only because of the above, but also for true peace and quiet, which you really find here. Many rare birds have been spotted in the garden, and national parks such as Yala and Uda Walawe can be visited easily on day trips from here. There are very few restaurants less than 15 minutes’ drive away, and no decent shops or nightlife, so it really is a place to relax and unwind. It would be superb as a yoga retreat (yoga and tai chi instructors can come to the villa to carry out three classes a day for a minimum of five days, for a fee, and during the months of May, June, October and November special yoga packages offering daily classes, special meals, massages and daily excursions may be booked) and would also suit two families holidaying together as the two parts of the property each have their own living and dining areas. There's a cable TV and a DVD player, two CD players and iPod docks, WiFi throughout, and lots of pool toys plus cricket bats, croquet, badminton racquets and body boards to keep all ages amused.

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TBA

Bedrooms 5

Sleeps 10

Our
Rating 8.0

The Teak House

Sri Lanka » South Coast » Tangalle

Tucked away on the hillside, Teak House is a place where we could really relax and forget about the outside world. We sat peacefully reading and relaxing beside the lovely new 12m swimming pool or in the hammock under the palms and watched the birds and squirrels as the ocean constantly played in our ears. The garden is large and slopes down the hill; we liked the front area the most with its many flowers and its soft lawn. A green wire fence surrounds most of the property which provided security without making us feel enclosed as we could still appreciate the jungle and views.

Inside the bungalow, we were reminded of the traditional wooden Thai houses, and although this one differs in design, the atmosphere is similarly romantic. The bungalow has an elegant design and its bedrooms are a good size; beds are large and comfortable and the bathrooms are modern with good hot-water showers. For entertainment there’s a selection of books and board games and the villa does have WiFi internet and iPod speakers, but no TVs or DVD players. However the large garden offers a good space for outdoor games such as cricket.

We felt that Teak House would be great for a family holiday and would also suit couples as it is intimately sized. It’s ideally placed to explore some excellent local beaches, wildlife parks and temples. Outdoorsy types, escapists, artists, writers and nature lovers will find it especially appealing here.

The bungalow is looked after by houseboy and multi-tasker Roshan who cleans, cooks and shops for you. We found him to be quiet, hospitable and discreet. He anticipated our needs for tea in the afternoon and let us choose our own mealtimes. He cooks on a cost basis (his repoirtoire of dishes is constantly growing). There is a washing machine for guest use, however Roshan can even do your laundry for you if you’d prefer – and the ironing (charges apply)! You can also ask him to help you arrange local transport.

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TBA

Bedrooms 2

Sleeps 4

Our
Rating 7.3 Guest Rating 9.3

Walatta House

Sri Lanka » South Coast » Tangalle

This is one of those fabulous finds you really want to keep for yourself. We loved Walatta House – from its eco-chic concept to its beautiful ocean views and tranquil hillside location – and no sooner had we arrived than we were working out when we could come back again with friends. The design is simple and the size manageable, even for two people, and the house is furnished with an eye-catching collection of design-orientated furnishings and fittings – the bulb installation above the dining table caught our eye.

The 20m swimming pool is a treat for long leisurely swims, and the air-conditioned TV room is a top addition as it provides the perfect snug for watching movies (bring your own) or catching up on the news and sports. There’s a desk and computer here too. We wandered down to the pretty beach, but currents can be strong so the staff advised us to head for Seenimodera Beach (over the hillside, and accessed via road) if we wanted to swim or jog as the beach here stretches for a few kilometres.

There’s a small staff team at Walatta House, including a chef who also acts as the manager. Having worked in various Middle Eastern countries he specialises in Middle Eastern / Arabian food, however you won’t find it on the menu, so if you fancy some hummus or tabbouleh, make a special request. The kitchen is not located within the house (there is a little pantry with drinks cooler, coffee machine and tea making facilities) but is adjacent to the main building, and can be used by guests.

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TBA

Bedrooms 3

Sleeps 6-8*

Our
Rating 7.9