Shangri-La Hambantota

5 StarHotelLong HaulSri Lanka
Written By Maddie Donnelly

Shangri-La Hambantota isn’t just a hotel – it’s a tropical playground for families looking for sunshine, space, and a splash of luxury. With sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, three pools, an adventure-packed kids' club, and a championship golf course, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're exploring nearby wildlife parks or simply enjoying a cocktail while the kids play, this resort makes family travel feel effortless.

📍Hambantota, Sri Lanka

★★★★★ | ££££

Reviews: Excellent – consistently rated 4.5/5 or higher

Price Range: From £200 to £500 per night (varies by season and room type)

Best Time to Visit: December to April (for the best weather)

📸 Instagram: @shangrilahambantota

Family-Friendly Highlights

  • Baby gear available – Cots and highchairs are complimentary. Babysitting services available for an extra charge.

  • Three pools – Including a separate kids’ pool with slides and splash zones.

  • Jungle Kids Club – A huge play area with trampolines, rope courses, and creative activities for ages 4-12.

  • Mini golf & adventure park – Perfect for little explorers.

  • Wildlife safaris nearby – Yala National Park is within driving distance.

  • Cultural experiences – Traditional Sri Lankan performances and craft workshops.

Childcare

  • Jungle Kids Club welcomes children aged 4-12 with fun, supervised activities.

  • Babysitting services are available at an additional cost.

  • Teen-friendly activities, including an arcade and sports courts.

Parent Perks

  • Spacious rooms – Big beds, ocean or golf course views, and luxurious bathrooms.

  • CHI Spa – A world-class spa with Ayurvedic treatments.

  • Gourmet dining – A mix of international and Sri Lankan cuisine with kid-friendly options.

  • Golf course – The only resort in Sri Lanka with its own 18-hole championship course.

The Details

Shangri-La Hambantota is Sri Lanka’s largest resort, spread over 145 acres of beachfront land. The rooms are spacious, stylish, and designed with families in mind, with the option of interconnecting rooms or suites for extra space. Dining is a treat, with a choice of fresh seafood, Sri Lankan curries, and even a laid-back beach bar.

For families, the kids' facilities are standout. The Jungle Kids Club is one of the best in the region, offering everything from climbing walls to movie nights. Outside the resort, there’s plenty to explore – from spotting elephants on safari to visiting local fishing villages.

Best Bits

  • Huge kids’ club with adventure playground, crafts, and games

  • Dedicated kids’ pool with splash zones

  • Championship golf course (for parents who want to sneak in a round!)

  • Wildlife safaris within driving distance

  • Incredible spa for relaxation

  • Cultural experiences – Sri Lankan cooking classes and local dance performances

Getting There from the UK

  • Flights: Direct flights to Colombo from London take around 10.5 hours.

  • Transfers: Hambantota is a 3.5-hour drive from Colombo Airport. The hotel can arrange private transfers.

  • Other options: Domestic flights from Colombo to Mattala Rajapaksa Airport (only 30 minutes away).

Maddie Donnelly
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