"There was a problem with our reservation as apparently hotels.com bookings do not transfer over to the hotels system and therefore they had no record of our booking. This meant that they did not have the rooms that we had booked available. The hotel owner/manager was very helpful in finding us different rooms but these were not what had been reserved and meant that we had to separate family members which was not ideal for a week. Other than that the breakfast was good, the rooms were clean and beds were comfy. The pool was really nice (although the area around it could be improved) and the location was perfect for access to the beach and restaurants. "
"The hotel had been abandoned. We managed to check-in but there have been no staff onsite since. A local has told us that the Indian company that owns the hotel has not paid the local staff wages and they have been forced to leave. The hotel is filthy, there is literally no staff anywhere to be seen. "
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An Unforgettable Stay in Paradise – New Tristar Hotel, Arugam Bay
We had the absolute pleasure of staying at the New Tristar Hotel in Arugam Bay for 4 nights, from 29th June to 3rd July, and it was nothing short of exceptional.
From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the outstanding staff and the incredible manager, Arooz. His attentiveness, kindness, and genuine care made us feel right at home and truly elevated our experience.
Our room was spotless and well-equipped, with efficient air conditioning, a working fridge and kettle, and 24-hour hot water in the shower — all the comforts you’d want while staying by the sea. The cleanliness and efficiency throughout the hotel were of the highest standard.
Each morning, we were treated to a delicious breakfast featuring a fragrant mix of Sri Lankan specialties alongside comforting European favorites — a perfect start to each day.
But the real highlight was the location. The hotel is directly on the beach, and we were lucky enough to watch the sunrise over the ocean right from our balcony — an unforgettable view that will stay with us for a long time.
A heartfelt thank you to Arooz and the entire team for making our stay so memorable. Your warm hospitality and attention to detail made all the difference. We left feeling relaxed, recharged, and already looking forward to our next visit.
"
By choosing a hostel, you can spend less on accommodations and save more of your budget for going out during your trip.
What is a hostel?
No two hostels look exactly alike, but these dorm-style accommodations all offer shared rooms (though many hostels also have private rooms), low prices and a social environment.
What are the best hostels in Arugam Bay?
Based on reviews from our guests, these Arugam Bay hostels have the best ratings: Backpackers Villa - Located within a 10-minute walk of Arugam Bay Beach. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a restaurant. You'll find showers and free Wi-Fi in all rooms. Safasurf Camp - Hostel - You can take advantage of free Wi-Fi and free parking, as well as a restaurant. Rooms come with towels, free Wi-Fi and free toiletries. Costels Arugambay - Located within a 5-minute walk of Arugam Bay Beach. You can take advantage of free Wi-Fi and free parking, as well as a restaurant. You'll find showers in all rooms. Hangover Hostels Arugam Bay - Located within a 20-minute walk of Arugam Bay Beach. You can take advantage of free Wi-Fi at this property. You'll find towels, showers and free Wi-Fi in all rooms.
When is the best time of year to stay in a hostel in Arugam Bay?
Good weather's definitely a plus when you're experiencing new places, so here's a little information about the local climate: The hottest months are usually June and July, with an average temperature of 29°C, while the coldest months are January and February, with an average of 26°C. The rainiest months in Arugam Bay are December, November, January and October, with each month seeing an average of 324 mm of rainfall.
What is there to see and do in Arugam Bay?
Depending on how you want to spend your time, you might enjoy these things around Arugam Bay. Get out into nature with places such as Arugam Bay Beach, Pasarichenai Beach and Pottuvil Point. Additional attractions include Muhudu Maha Viharaya Temple, Kumana National Park and Kudumbigala Monastery.