Karpaha Sands

The tourist trade in Sri Lanka is concentrated along the island’s more densely populated south and west coasts — a situation that suits Karpaha Sands just fine. The east coast’s remoteness and relative lack of development only makes for a more thorough atmosphere of seclusion, which is ideal for this hotel: a luxury camp, complete with tented villas, on a stunning stretch of the vast and unspoiled Kalkudah Beach.

The suites themselves are essentially African-style high-end safari tents, with canvas roofs, outdoor showers, and contemporary artworks, fixtures, and furnishings, from the half-egg-shaped soaking tubs to the chic tables and chairs. Space is plentiful, as is privacy, whether you’ve got a beach view or are sequestered in a lush garden.

All perfectly relaxing enough, without even considering the public spaces; there’s an Ayurvedic spa and a beautiful salt-water swimming pool, and the beach, of course, is just a few steps beyond. The gardens are dotted with outdoor artworks, there’s a games room and a library for some more structured relaxation, and the restaurant and bar are the centerpiece of the social life, serving upscale Sri Lankan and international fare (including some distinctly French flavors) with a view out to sea.