Kaju Green Eco Lodges, Unawatuna

Kaju Green Eco Lodges - A modernist eco-hotel with vegetarian dining, yoga, and a saltwater pool in a bird sanctuary

Positioned on a circular palm-dominated island surrounded by shallow canals and lagoons, Kaju Green Eco Lodges is a 5-star modernist eco-hotel with a 9.0/10 Booking.com rating. The seven fan-cooled lodges feature private entrances, minibars, and balconies with lake or garden views, along with free WiFi and 24-hour room service. The on-site restaurant serves vegetarian meals inspired by Sri Lankan Ayurvedic traditions, including a nutritious mini buffet of tropical fruit, coconut pancakes, and buffalo curd. Guests can enjoy yoga sessions on a rooftop terrace or in the roofed Shala, relax by the saltwater pool, or explore the Eluwila Bird Sanctuary by kayak or bicycle. A tuk-tuk shuttle provides access to Unawatuna Beach, 2.5 km away, and excursions like whale watching in Mirissa (November to April) or safaris in Yala/Udawalawe are available. The hotel also offers Ayurvedic massages in a dedicated spa pavilion.

Pros

The saltwater pool and open-air yoga terrace provide relaxation with natural surroundings.

Vegetarian meals feature locally sourced ingredients, including produce from the hotel’s garden.

Private balconies in lodges offer lake or garden views.

Proximity to Unawatuna Beach (2.5 km) and Galle (10 km) allows easy exploration.

Activities include kayaking, cycling, and guided wildlife excursions.

Cons

The adult-only policy may not suit families with children.

The secluded location requires a tuk-tuk or bicycle for off-site exploration.