Bar Reef Resort, Etalai ∞ Discover spa retreats, reviews & deals for 2025

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Key details

About Resort

Norochcholoai, Alankuda, Etalai, Sri Lanka, 61360

Bar Reef Resort is a 4-star accommodation featuring rustic charm surrounded by landscaped gardens, close to a quaint village. It offers amenities such as free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, and two dining options serving international and Sri Lankan cuisines.

Rooms & Amenities

Rooms at Bar Reef Resort consist of well-furnished villas and cabanas, each featuring open-air bathrooms, private gardens, and thoughtful touches such as bathrobes and slippers. Some accommodations include large outdoor terraces and sitting areas for additional comfort.

Dining & Nearby Options

Dining options at Bar Reef Resort include two eateries, providing a bohemian vibe while serving a combination of international and local dishes. Guests can also enjoy drinks at the beach bar, enhancing the outdoor dining experience.

Leisure Activities

Leisure activities at Bar Reef Resort feature kitesurfing, whale and dolphin watching, as well as yoga and snorkeling. Guests can also participate in exciting kite surfing lessons offered at the in-house school.

Services & Local Area

The 24-hour front desk at Bar Reef Resort assists guests with tour and ticket assistance. The property's location facilitates visits to local attractions, such as Wilpattu National Park, famous for its diverse wildlife.

“This hotel is perfectly situated right on the stunning Lacadive Sea, providing easy access to amazing dolphin watching and exciting water sports.”view full review

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“A serene retreat with exceptional service and cuisine” view full review

Top location:Highly rated by recent guests(9.2)

Check-in/Check-out

from 12:00-23:59

until 10 am

Amenities

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Other information

All children:

Extra bed: us$ 60

Existing beds: FREE

One child: 1 - 2 years

Cot: FREE

Existing beds: FREE

All children: 3 - 6 years

Existing beds: FREE

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:13

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Staycation Garden Cabana Sri Lankan NIC & Passport Holders only

Max:

3 persons

380 sq. feet

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

room details

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Beach cabana

Max:

3 persons

380 sq. feet

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

Sea view

Shower

room details

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Garden Cabana

Max:

3 persons

380 sq. feet

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

Garden view

Shower

room details

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Getting around

Explore a range of transportation options for your spa getaway

City Centre

Etalai 1.9 mi

Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Unique Outdoor Experience

“My beachfront cabana had a stunning outdoor shower that made me feel like I was showering beneath a waterfall! The open-air bathroom was a beautiful touch, with water cascading from a palm tree. This unique feature combined comfort with nature, making my stay truly special.” view full review

Enchanting Bathroom Design

“The bathroom in my cabana was unlike any I've experienced before. It had a captivating design where the shower was outside under a tree, allowing me to feel immersed in nature while still enjoying the comfort of the resort. It was an amazing and lovely experience.” view full review

Delicious Culinary Delights

“Dining at the resort was a treat! Each meal was freshly prepared, and I particularly enjoyed the stunning fish dishes. The beach dinner location was perfect, as I savored my meals while listening to the soothing sound of waves—an absolute feast for both the palate and the senses.” view full review

Tranquil Poolside Bliss

“The saltwater infinity pool was a highlight of my stay. Not only was it spacious and inviting, but it was also beautifully lit at night, adding a magical atmosphere. Relaxing in the pool while taking in the ocean view was a simply peaceful experience that I will cherish.” view full review

General

Free Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Dining

Breakfast
Restaurant
Outdoor dining area

Children

Cots

Spa & Leisure

Swimming pool

Room features

In-room safe
Sitting area
Patio
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

AM/FM alarm clock

Location

Norochcholoai, Alankuda, Etalai, Sri Lanka, 61360

Map view

Norochcholoai, Alankuda, Etalai, Sri Lanka, 61360

City landmarks

Ruwala Nature & Adventure Park

1.8 mi

Reviews and Ratings <br />

Feedback from previous guests about their experience.

80%

loved the resort and would return for another relaxing stay

Tranquil beach setting

Exceptional staff

Limited dining variety

Spa services availability

8.0/10

Great

Rooms

8.0

Location

9.2

Service

9.2

Dining

6.4

John

United States, March 2025

8.6/10

This resort was a beautiful spot to unwind after a busy holiday in Sri Lanka. I loved the unspoiled surroundings and the chance to relax by the beach and pool. While the dining options were good, I felt breakfast could use a bit more variety. The public areas had some cleanliness issues, which was slightly off-putting. However, the stunning villa and the peaceful atmosphere definitely made for a memorable experience.

Rooms

9.0

Our villa was incredibly spacious and beautifully designed, accommodating all five of us comfortably. It featured two large rooms with open-air bathrooms, which added a unique touch, but the lighting could be improved.

Service

9.0

The service was attentive and dedicated, especially Lakshman, who ensured we had everything we needed and addressed any issues promptly.

Location

10.0

The location is remote and peaceful, right on the beach. It felt like a private paradise, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Dining

7.0

The dining experience was quite enjoyable, with freshly made meals and a great variety of local options. However, breakfast could definitely use a bit more variety to enhance the experience.

Facilities

8.0

The infinity saltwater pool was a highlight, providing a lovely place to relax and play. The overall facilities were good, but some public areas could be cleaner.

Rodney

United States, February 2025

8.4/10

Our stay at Kalpitiya Bar Reef Resort was unforgettable, especially given the unique circumstances we faced. The location is exquisite, right on the beach, with a lovely pool area to enjoy. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome during a challenging time, but there were some limitations in dining options due to the situation. Overall, it was peaceful and relaxing, with great amenities and clean accommodations.

Rooms

9.0

The beach cabana we stayed in was delightful, featuring an outdoor shower and bathroom which felt quite eco-friendly. Cleanliness was top-notch, and the room was equipped with universal plugs, which was a nice touch.

Service

10.0

The staff were incredibly kind and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed. They truly made our experience feel personal, which was a highlight during our stay.

Location

8.0

The resort's beachfront location is fantastic, providing a serene atmosphere and stunning views. It's a little away from busy tourist areas, which adds to the tranquility. However, some nearby elements, like the power plant, can detract from the otherwise beautiful setting.

Dining

7.0

Dining was satisfactory, although the menu was somewhat limited given the circumstances, and breakfast lacked variety. The quality of the food we had was good overall, but I wish there were more options available.

Facilities

8.0

The resort boasts a lovely pool area surrounded by beautiful landscaping. While the facilities are well-maintained, I hope for more public facilities improvements in the future.

Warren

United States, January 2025

9.0/10

I had an absolutely magical experience at this resort! The setting is incredibly tranquil, with a beautiful beach and long infinity pool. The cleanliness and comfort of the rooms were top-notch, and the staff was always there with a smile, ensuring I had everything I needed. While the dining options were good, I felt there could've been a bit more variety in the menu. Overall, this place felt like a private paradise, perfect for relaxation and pampering.

Rooms

9.0

The rooms are spacious, clean, and feature lovely outdoor showers. My cabana had a private verandah, which added to the comfort.

Service

10.0

The service from the management team and all staff members was exceptional, always attentive and friendly.

Location

10.0

The resort is right on the beach, offering a sense of isolation and peace, which I absolutely loved.

Dining

8.0

Dining was delightful, with freshly prepared meals, though the options could sometimes feel a bit limited.

Facilities

8.0

The resort boasts a stunning infinity pool and beautifully maintained gardens. However, the spa services were limited during my stay.

Tranquil beach setting

Limited dining variety

Christopher

United States, December 2024

7.2/10

My stay at the hotel was a mix of bliss and letdowns. The location was stunning, right on the beach, and the outdoor bathroom in the room was unique and charming. However, the room lacked essential comforts, and the dining options didn't quite capture the flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine. While the services were pleasantly friendly, I expected a bit more in terms of luxury and amenities given the prices.

Rooms

6.0

The room had a lovely semi-outdoor bathroom vibe and felt eco-friendly, but unfortunately, there was no hot water and it lacked comfortable seating and basic amenities.

Service

8.0

The staff was genuinely passionate and very friendly, making sure to attend to requests promptly, which was refreshing.

Location

10.0

The hotel's location right on the calm beach of Kalpitiya is beautiful and perfect for serene walks and ocean views.

Dining

5.0

The dining experience was a bit limited with options that often felt Westernized and unexciting, as I was hoping for more vibrant Sri Lankan flavors.

Facilities

7.0

The resort had a beautiful pool area but felt somewhat basic for a luxurious stay, lacking some high-end amenities you'd expect.

Johnny

United States, October 2024

7.4/10

I had a nice experience at this hotel with very courteous staff and a lovely ambiance. The cabanas were unique with an outdoor bathroom, but dealing with insects was a challenge. The lighting in the rooms was too dim, and the dining service was a bit slow. Overall, it was a memorable stay, especially by the warm pool and beach, but there are areas that could use improvement.

Rooms

7.0

The cabanas were lovely with outdoor bathrooms and a private garden. However, the lighting was too dim for my liking.

Service

9.0

The staff were extremely courteous and tried their best to keep guests happy. Special mention to Lakshman for going out of his way to assist us.

Location

8.0

The hotel is in a secluded area along the beach, providing a peaceful environment, but the access road can be tricky to navigate.

Dining

5.0

Breakfast by the pool had a nice Sri Lankan variety, but dinner service was a bit slow. The food itself was overpriced for what we received.