Find hotels in Matara from £12

Top reasons to visit Matara

• Stunning Beaches: Matara boasts pristine beaches ideal for swimming, surfing, and relaxation.
• Historic Sites: Explore the intriguing Matara Fort and the serene Matara Shrine, reflecting the town's rich history.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture during the vibrant Matara Esala Perahera festival.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy excellent surf access and a variety of outdoor adventures amidst beautiful coastal scenery.
• Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from charming hotels and guesthouses catering to diverse preferences for a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels near Matara

In Matara, you'll discover a delightful array of accommodations, including charming hotels and guesthouses that cater to various preferences. Whether you're seeking a beachfront retreat, a business-friendly venue, or a relaxing spa experience, Matara offers something for every traveller. With numerous options available in the Matara district and nearby Dondra, you're sure to find the perfect room to unwind after a day of exploring this beautiful coastal region of Sri Lanka.

• Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa: This luxurious 5-star resort, rated 9.2 by guests, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and family-friendly amenities. Located 12.9km from Matara, it provides direct access to the stunning beach, making it an ideal choice for sun-seekers. Guests can enjoy a range of services tailored for children, including a kids' club and a designated children's pool, ensuring a delightful family vacation experience. The resort’s exceptional dining options and rejuvenating spa services further enhance the overall holiday experience.
• Weligama Bay Resort: With a guest rating of 8.6 and a 4.5-star status, Weligama Bay Resort is designed for adventurous families seeking both relaxation and excitement. Situated 12.9km from Matara with direct beach access, this resort offers a variety of adventure sports including surfing, hiking, and archery. The property features family-friendly amenities such as a children's pool and complimentary cribs, making it convenient for families. Guests appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the chance to explore nearby recreational activities, ensuring a memorable stay.
• Sea World Boutique Hotel: A charming 3-star establishment with a guest rating of 8.6, Sea World Boutique Hotel is located 9.7km from Matara. This hotel is perfect for families looking for a beach getaway, offering direct access to the sandy shores. With amenities tailored for children, including a playground and babysitting services, it ensures that parents can relax while their little ones have fun. The cosy atmosphere and attentive service make it a delightful choice for those seeking a laid-back vacation with family-friendly features.

Where to stay near Matara

Matara, a charming coastal town in Sri Lanka's Southern Province, offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation. With its pristine beaches and welcoming atmosphere, visitors can explore the rich history of the Matara District. Nearby, Talalla promises luxurious holidays for families and friends alike. Embrace the friendly vibes and indulge in outdoor activities, making your stay in Matara a memorable experience filled with warmth and adventure.

• Mirissa: Nestled approximately 9.7km from Matara, Mirissa is a picturesque coastal town famed for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere. The travel experience here is enhanced by outdoor activities, such as whale watching and snorkelling, making it a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy local markets and shopping centres, adding a unique flavour to their stay. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, with the nearby national parks providing opportunities for trekking and wildlife observation. Whether you're seeking relaxation on the sandy shores or an adrenaline rush, Mirissa offers an unforgettable experience.
• Weligama: Located around 14.5km from Matara, Weligama is a charming fishing village that has evolved into a popular destination for surfers and beach lovers alike. The town's laid-back vibe is complemented by its beautiful coastline, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. Visitors can take advantage of a variety of activities, including water sports and golf, while the nearby shopping centres provide a taste of local culture. Weligama's proximity to national parks adds to its allure, offering scenic landscapes and opportunities for adventure amidst nature's splendour.
• Kamburugamuwa: Just 6.4km from Matara, Kamburugamuwa is a tranquil town known for its serene beaches and breathtaking scenery. The area attracts visitors looking for a peaceful escape, with outdoor activities such as beach walks and water sports readily available. The local shopping centres and golf courses cater to those seeking leisure and entertainment. With its close proximity to national parks, Kamburugamuwa provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an excellent choice for tourists wishing to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.

Things to do in Matara

Matara, in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province, is perfect for beach and outdoor adventurers. Visitors can enjoy live music, explore the vibrant Matara Esala Perahera festival, and discover the town's main attractions. The area boasts excellent surf access, as well as shopping centres and a private country club for leisure activities. With its diverse offerings, Matara promises an exciting vacation experience for tourists.

Shopping

In Matara, explore the bustling local markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the larger shopping centres like Avenir Mall and Manelwatta Mall, where you can find a variety of shops and dining options to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

At the Ayurveda Wellness Centre, indulge in traditional healing therapies amidst a tranquil setting, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. For a holistic experience, visit the Eco Spa, where natural treatments and yoga sessions harmonise with the serene beachside atmosphere, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of surfing at the pristine Polhena Beach, known for its gentle waves and vibrant marine life. For an adrenaline rush, explore the scenic trails of the Nilwala River on a kayak, surrounded by lush greenery and diverse wildlife.

Discover the breathtaking views while trekking to the stunning viewpoints of the nearby Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its rich biodiversity. Enjoy the excitement of whale watching off the coast, where you can witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Nightlife

Discover the vibrant nightlife at the Sea View Restaurant on Beach Road, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and cocktails while watching the sunset. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Matara Night Market, where you can savour local street food and shop for unique souvenirs.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Matara

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Matara are June and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Matara is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Matara is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Matara is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred destination, and additional criteria. You can organise your search results by price, from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation options available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy potential savings by combining your hotel booking in Matara with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Matara

Matara, a vibrant coastal town in Sri Lanka's Southern Province, offers a delightful blend of beach, culture, and adventure. Visitors can explore the historic Matara Fort and the serene Matara Shrine, while enjoying stunning coastal scenery. With its beautiful beaches, captivating harbours, and the nearby cape, Matara is perfect for those seeking relaxation and outdoor activities. Whether you're swimming, surfing, or soaking in the local culture, Matara is sure to provide a memorable experience.

• Mirissa Beach: Located 11.3km from Matara, Mirissa Beach offers a stunning stretch of golden sand and vibrant beach vibes. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood at local shacks while observing playful dolphins in the nearby waters.
• Madiha Beach: Just 4.8km from Matara, Madiha Beach boasts a serene atmosphere with tranquil waves and picturesque scenery. Ideal for relaxation and water sports, this beach is less crowded, providing a peaceful retreat for sun-seekers.
• Our Lady of Matara Shrine: Situated within Matara, this culturally significant shrine is a beautiful testament to local spirituality. Its serene surroundings and intricate architecture make it a must-visit for those seeking to immerse themselves in the region’s rich heritage.

Best time to go to Matara

The best time to visit Matara is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
June	81.0°F (27.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
October	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	78.8°F (26.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High