An intimate boutique hotel where the soothing sounds of wildlife and lapping ocean waves will have you relaxing in no time.
Location: Set on one of the most scenic beaches along Sri Lanka’s south-west coast, Lantern is a boutique seafront retreat with a private, laid-back atmosphere. Just a short drive from Galle and Mirissa, it’s perfectly placed for exploring both culture and wildlife while enjoying the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Rooms: Lantern’s rooms are spacious, airy and stylishly designed, with a blend of contemporary and classic touches. Large windows and private balconies frame uninterrupted sea views, creating a serene space to relax. Each room is designed for comfort without compromising on sophistication.
Amenities: The hotel offers a tranquil setting with a spa for restorative treatments, an infinity pool overlooking the beach, and open-plan dining where guests can watch chefs at work. Meals focus on modern Sri Lankan fusion, with organic produce from the gardens and freshly caught fish.
Activities: Adventurous guests can enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing trips. Whale and dolphin watching excursions are easily arranged from Mirissa or Galle, while day tours to Udawalawe and Ruhuna National Parks offer the chance to spot elephants and leopards. Tea factory visits in the region provide further cultural insight.
Sustainability: Lantern champions a sustainable ethos, sourcing ingredients from its own gardens and supporting local fishermen. By reducing reliance on mass suppliers, the hotel ensures fresh produce while contributing positively to the local community.
Let me help you create your perfect Sri Lanka holiday.
Best places to stay in Southern Beaches
Southern Beaches Trip Inspiration
When to visit Sri Lanka
Find out the best time to visit Sri Lanka with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is the perfect time to visit different regions in Sri Lanka, temperatures will be warm and basking in sunshine, meaning the cultural triangle, beaches, national parks and hill country could all be visited during January. However, the central hills will be cooler than other regions due to their altitude.
February
February is much like January, with long sunny days and calm seas. Visitors travelling during this month have a higher chance of spotting sperm and blue whales.
March
March is considered the best time to visit the central hills, although cooler than other regions in Sri Lanka there is less chance of rains in March.
April
Typically April, is the hottest and driest month of the year, with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees if you're travelling to Golden Triangle regions. It is a great month to head to Sri Lanka's beautiful beaches, with clear skies and long sunny days.
- Top Tip: when sightseeing visit in the mornings and evenings as you will avoid the hottest part of the day.
May
In May, the south is humid and increasingly hot whilst hill country is cooler with a higher chance of rainfall. We recommend travelling to the North and east of the island during May witnessing the unique history and culture of Sri Lanka.
- Vesak Poya, takes place during the first full moon, celebrating the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha.
June
During June, temperatures in the south continue to be increasingly hot and humid as the southwest monsoon blows through the country. Southern regions will experience short sharp showers which tend to pass quite quickly.
July
As the summer holidays commence in July, Sri Lanka is in peak season, with temperatures staying around 30 degrees all month. If you're looking to explore Sri Lanka and visit different areas July is a great time to visit.
August
In August, the warm days continue with temperatures remaining in the high twenties. All in all it is a great month to travel especially if you want to witness culture, between August and September the Kandy Perahera festival takes place, a grand procession celebrating the 'sacred tooth' of Buddha.
September
All in all September is a great month to travel especially if you want to witness culture, between August and September the Kandy Perahera festival takes place, a grand procession celebrating the 'sacred tooth' of Buddha.
October
October brings with it the monsoon rains which affect the whole country, in saying this the weather remains warm and sunny. The monsoon can be unpredictable, rains can be heavy, sporadic or not come at all it is impossible to forecast.
November
In November the monsoon continues, with conditions affecting the whole country.
December
During December the monsoon rains can continue, however the southern and western coasts dry out and become warm and dry. The monsoon rains, means during December the landscapes become lush and full, meaning it is a beautiful time to explore the more rural areas of Sri Lanka.
Speak to a Sri Lanka expert today
and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Nia
