Relaxed Sri Lanka Family Holiday

Head to the south coast for a stay at Tekanda Lodge, a serene retreat surrounded by lush tea and cinnamon estates where you could simply retreat and relax for days, swimming in the pool or taking yoga classes. However, this is also your gateway to the vibrant beachside communities of Ahangama and Weligama – only a short tuk-tuk ride away, both ideal for an introduction to Sri Lanka’s thriving surf culture, which will appeal to kids and teens (and adults of course!). Ahangama and Weligama have surf schools catering to all skill levels, and for non-surfers, there are cafes and boutiques to discover.

If you’re here at the right time of year, there is whale watching off the coast of Mirissa or Weligama, one of the best locations in the world to see Blue Whales and other species. You’ll also have time to explore the historic Dutch Galle Fort with a local expert or get hands-on with a Sri Lankan cooking class that will leave lasting memories.

Depart Tekanda and journey into Sri Lanka’s stunning hill country with a stop at Udawalawe Elephant Sanctuary. Here, you’ll witness the morning feeding of orphaned elephants, an initiative with a strong conservation focus.

From there, continue to AMBA Tea Estate near Ella, a social enterprise property. Stay in a family suite and enjoy a variety of hands-on activities. Kids and adults can join a tea-making workshop to learn how tea is cultivated, harvested, and processed. You can also take guided treks to secret waterfalls or sign up for a traditional Sri Lankan cooking session using fresh, organic produce from the estate.

 Nearby, the Pekoe Trail offers beautiful views and a deeper connection to Sri Lanka’s history, as it follows old tea plantation tracks and colonial-era paths. During your stay, you’ll walk a scenic section of the Pekoe Trail with a specialist guide. Marvel at the iconic 9-Arch Bridge and lush green tea plantations. Along the way, you’ll meet local tea pluckers and farmers, who are often happy to share their stories and skills.

Travel to Kataragama and settle into a charming 4-bedroom property close to Yala National Park’s quieter Block 5.

Yala National Park’s Block 5 offers a quieter, more intimate safari experience than the more popular southern sections. It’s an excellent area for spotting elusive leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and various bird species. Your private game drives will allow you to move at your own pace, with expert guides tailoring the experience for your family.

Being so close to the park at the Warden’s House gives you flexibility—perfect for families who want to mix wildlife spotting with downtime. The nearby Kataragama Temple is also worth visiting. This sacred site is a spiritual melting pot, welcoming Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims alike and offering insight into Sri Lanka’s religious diversity.

Return to the coast for a relaxing stay at Mawella, a calm bay with ideal swimming conditions during the high season—a rarity in Sri Lanka. Unwind on the beach, kayak through the lagoon, or head to Hiriketiya. Hiriketiya’s young and vibrant scene is ideal for older kids, with more surfing opportunities on a safe, crescent-shaped bay. Try the stylish cafes or the area’s growing number of vegan and health-conscious eateries.

Parents can relax at Halcyon’s laid-back bar, sipping cocktails while enjoying board games with the kids, all with the soothing sound of waves in the background.