This blog post is all about my Dickwella Resort and Spa review.

During our month-long adventure around Sri Lanka, we had some incredible stays, but Dickwella Resort and Spa stood out as one of the most relaxing, luxurious-feeling spots we experienced.
And without breaking the bank!
Set on a private peninsula in the quiet town of Dikwella, this hotel gave us access to a private beach, delicious on-site dining, a massive room with a romantic four-poster bed, and the kind of peaceful atmosphere that made us not want to leave the resort even once.
Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Dickwella Resort and Spa, and why you should consider adding it to your South Coast Sri Lanka itinerary.
RELATED Sri Lanka blog posts to read:
- Things to Do in Dikwella: The Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide
- Hilltop Guest House Ella Review: Amazing Sri Lanka Hotel
- Morven Hotel: The Best Hotel in Colombo Sri Lanka
- Where to Stay in Negombo: Amazing Sujeewani Villas Hotel Review
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- Hungry Lion Resort: Best Place to Stay in Sigiriya
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This blog post is all about my review of Dickwella Resort and Spa.
Why Visit Dikwella, Sri Lanka?
Dikwella (also spelled Dickwella) is a lesser-known beach town on Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, tucked between Mirissa and Tangalle.
While other spots like Weligama and Hiriketiya are becoming increasingly popular with surfers and backpackers, Dikwella remains under the radar.
Which means fewer crowds, pristine beaches, and a more laid-back vibe.
It’s the perfect destination if you’re looking to unplug, unwind, and enjoy a quieter stretch of coast.
The scenery here is stunning. Think swaying palm trees, turquoise waters, and golden sand, and the sunsets are next level.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to download my travel guide that’s filled with example itineraries, everything to know, things to do, insider tips and more!
Hotel Overview: Dickwella Resort and Spa
From the moment we checked in, we knew this would be one of our favourite stays in Sri Lanka.
Although it’s considered a 3-star property, Dickwella Resort and Spa has a truly luxurious feel thanks to its location, facilities, and spacious rooms.
RELATED blog post to read: Incredible Sri Lanka Hotels: Everywhere You Need to Stay
The Room at Dickwella Resort and Spa
Our room was huge, with a comfortable four-poster bed, a lounge area, and a private courtyard looking out to the ocean.
Waking up to sunrise over the waves and watching the sunset from our private courtyard area was just magic.
The room had great AC, a mini fridge, good Wi-Fi, and everything we needed for a comfy stay.
The bathroom was also spacious and clean, with good water pressure and hot showers, which is always a bonus after long beach days.
Location & Grounds of Dickwella Resort and Spa
One of the standout features is that the resort sits on a private peninsula with access to its own private beach.
We honestly didn’t leave the resort once as it had everything we needed.
There are plenty of loungers, hammocks, shady palm trees, and places to chill out with a book or just listen to the sound of the waves.
There’s also a large pool if you fancy a break from the beach, and plenty of space to walk around the gardens.
It felt super peaceful, and we never felt crowded, even during peak hours.

Dining at Dickwella Resort and Spa
We ate exclusively at the hotel restaurant during our stay and were pleasantly surprised!
The menu was varied, with plenty of Sri Lankan dishes (yay for string hoppers and dhal curry) and Western options for those missing home comforts.
We particularly loved the fresh seafood options and the generous breakfast spread.
You could even sit outside near the water for meals, which was perfect for those golden hour dinners.
How to Make Dikwella Part of Your South Coast Itinerary
If you’re backpacking or road-tripping along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Dikwella makes for a perfect stop between Tangalle and Hiriketiya/Weligama.
Here’s a simple route suggestion to slot it in:
- Mirissa (2–3 nights) – For whale watching and beach bars
- Tangalle (1–2 nights) – For stunning beaches and laid-back vibes
- Dikwella (2–3 nights) – For full relaxation and private resort luxury
- Hiriketiya (2 nights) – For surfing and boutique cafes
- Weligama (1–2 nights) – For surf schools and co-working vibes
If you’re looking for one “treat yourself” stop during your Sri Lanka trip without the big price tag, Dikwella (and specifically Dickwella Resort and Spa) is ideal.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to download my travel guide that’s filled with example itineraries, everything to know, things to do, insider tips and more!
How to Get to Dikwella
Below are various routes and starting points around Sri Lanka, and how to get to Dickwella Resort and Spa from these popular cities.
How to Get to Dikwella from Colombo
- By private car: Around 3.5–4 hours
- By bus: Take an express bus to Matara and then a local bus or tuk-tuk to Dikwella (~1 hour)
- By train: Take the train to Matara and then continue by road
How to Get to Dikwella from Ella
- By car: Around 3.5 hours via Wellawaya
- By bus: Bus to Matara or Tangalle, then transfer
How to Get to Dikwella from Mirissa / Weligama / Tangalle
- Tuk-tuk or taxi: 20–45 minutes
- Local bus: Very easy and budget-friendly. Ask your accommodation or driver which route to take
Cost & Value for Money
We were shocked at how affordable this resort was.
For what felt like a luxury experience, we paid a mid-range price, and it was 100% worth it.
If you’re travelling as a couple and want a few nights to just enjoy each other’s company in a beautiful location, this is a perfect place to splurge a little without going over budget.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a relaxing beach escape in Sri Lanka that feels a little more elevated without the price tag of a 5-star hotel, Dickwella Resort & Spa is the one.
With a private beach, spacious rooms, beautiful views, and great food, it’s ideal for couples, honeymooners, or even solo travellers looking to unwind.
We left feeling recharged, sun-kissed, and wishing we’d stayed just one night longer.
Highly recommend adding this gem to your south coast adventure!
Take a look at rates for Dickwella Resort and Spa here!
RELATED Sri Lanka blog posts to read:
- Hilltop Guest House Ella Review: Amazing Sri Lanka Hotel
- Morven Hotel: The Best Hotel in Colombo Sri Lanka
- Where to Stay in Negombo: Amazing Sujeewani Villas Hotel Review
- Galaxy City Hotel Review: The Ultimate Hotel in Kandy
- Hungry Lion Resort: Best Place to Stay in Sigiriya
- Peacock Village Pinnawala: The Best Elephant River Views

By Orlagh Shanks
Orlagh Shanks is the Editor of Orlagh Claire, an award-winning travel and lifestyle blog.
After working in the PR & Influencer Marketing industry in London and New York, Orlagh quit her job to travel Asia for 12 months and moved to Sydney, Australia where she is now a full-time travel blogger and content creator sharing travel tips and recommendations for all 30 of the countries she’s visited so far.
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