Sri Lanka's East Coast is a gem. There are endless empty beaches, estuarine lakes full of wildlife, the best snorkelling and diving in the country, and a long history of Tamil culture, centred on capital and port city Trincomalee. Just to the north, on a long sand bar between the ocean and lagoon, lies Jungle Beach, a resort which, as its name suggests, is immersed in vegetation on the shores of a long strand of golden sand.
Designed to melt into its surroundings, the hotel has an understated look. The main building housing the restaurant and bar is shrouded in a thatched roof and has a massive tree growing through its deck. There's a lovely small spa secreted in the undergrowth, a green freeform swimming pool overhung with jungle, and shady, sandy pathways winding to the sea.
We had a wonderfully relaxing stay in the well-appointed, ample cabins dotted about the grounds, each with a private balcony or deck, and most with outdoor rain showers. Feeling refreshed, we popped out to discover all that this coast has to offer, from snorkelling with sharks to exploring traditional villages, plus day trips to Trincomalee, and birdwatching on the lagoons. Then we lingered over lunch, drank cocktails overlooking the ocean, and dined on sumptuous seafood under the stars.
Highs
- Set on a long stretch of pristine golden beach, which is good for swimming 10 months of the year
- Delicious food and drink with an emphasis on seafood
- Superlative service from committed and helpful staff for whom nothing is too much trouble
- The East Coast high season usefully coincides with the European summer (which is monsoon season for the south and west coasts)
- Laudable commitment to energy and water efficiency, waste reduction, sustainable procurement, community projects, and an inclusive and diverse workforce
Lows
- The East Coast of Sri Lanka is a bit out of the way, but it's an opportunity to discover a lesser-visited part of the country, and an easy add-on to the Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya is 2h30m away; you could stay at sister hotel Uga Ulagalla)
- The seafood barbecue experience isn't included in the half-board rate
- There are ongoing low-level refurbishments until June 2025 (all work is contained, limited and only during daytime hours); Jungle Beach will be closed October and November 2025 to complete the works
Best time to go
In contrast to the south and west coasts of the island, peak season here is July-August, though note that the temperatures are often in the mid-30s so you'll need to factor that into any planned activities or excursions. Low season here is mid-November to early March, with the monsoon typically arriving during December-February, when the sea can be choppy. The weather improves from March onwards, leading into high and then peak season.
Our top tips
We loved taking the cooking class where we learned how to make dhal, prawn curry and green bean curry as well as the iconic coconut sambol accompaniment: a very tasty lunch. And we've been recreating these dishes at home for friends and family ever since!
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 1 independent review from i-escape guests