The Emerging Travel Hotspot That the Fashion Set Is Choosing Over Bali and Thailand

      Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations favored by the fashion crowd. This serves as your guide on everything from the trendiest accommodations to unforgettable dining experiences and the ideal travel wardrobe, all reviewed by fashionable locals and seasoned travelers.

      When I was getting ready to board my flight from London to Colombo, Sri Lanka, in January, I noticed the outfit of the woman behind me and realized she was my friend—a Jetset PR representative on the same vacation as me. This encounter confirmed that Sri Lanka's south coast has transformed into a sought-after winter sun location. Over five of my friends began January with a kottu-filled getaway, including several British Vogue editors.

      Sri Lanka offers a diverse itinerary, featuring activities like leopard watching in Yala National Park, taking a train ride through the breathtaking tea regions, and hiking the rock fortress of Sigiriya, making it a popular multi-stop travel destination. Since 2024, tourism in Sri Lanka has experienced a marked resurgence after years of challenges, including the devastating tsunami in 2004, the civil war that ended in 2009, and an economic crisis in 2022 that discouraged travel. Numerous hotels and improvements to infrastructure (such as the recently inaugurated Pekoe Trail, a 300-kilometer hiking route through tea plantations) have sparked a tourism boom in the area.

      For those seeking a leisurely pace, I recommend meandering along the south coast. This area features surfing towns, jungle retreats, and colonial architecture, making it a new hotspot for wellness and sun lovers. It's often compared to Bali before it fell victim to overtourism. "Sri Lanka's southern coast has a unique charm," says Helen Bailey, global head of PR and brand communications at Mr & Mrs Smith. "[It offers] an intoxicating blend of salt, spice, and lazy afternoons watching the waves—golden beaches, swaying palm trees, and the relaxed rhythm of island life."

      The ideal weather on the south coast prevails from November to April, making it a perfect winter getaway for sun seekers from the northern hemisphere. Days in Ahangama and Hiriketiya maintain a similar rhythm with morning surf sessions, egg hoppers and coconut sambol for breakfast, rickshaw rides through rice paddies to secluded beaches, and curry-laden sunsets—a casual lifestyle appealing even to those who don’t want to surf. Much like Puerto Escondido, Mexico, stylish boutique hotels have transformed these tranquil towns, elevating them beyond mere surf shacks and hostels. Nonetheless, the area retains its charm amidst development. "This region is ideal," explains Bailey. "[It's] less commercialized than the west coast but alive with just the right energy. The surfing is top-notch, the boutique hotels are effortlessly chic, and a culinary revolution is underway, merging traditional Sri Lankan tastes with a modern twist."

      The entire south coast radiates a similar vibe, allowing for flexibility in your itinerary based on your adventure level. Monkeys traverse the trees, and turtles occupy the coastline; for additional wildlife experiences, consider visiting Yala to see a leopard, Udawalawe for elephants, and Mirissa for whale watching. Other noteworthy locations include surf town Ahangama, Koggala Lake, Galle Fort, and Dickwella Beach. Travel journalist Sophie Hay emphasizes that there’s much more than picturesque palm views to this area, commenting, "Beyond the scenery, the community here is exceptional. A blend of expats and locals is thoughtfully enhancing the area, introducing exciting new businesses while prioritizing sustainability and local culture. Many liken it to Bali a decade ago, but I believe there’s more depth. A significant portion of new businesses—from hotels to surf schools—are dedicated to giving back, whether through community surf lessons, English classes for local children, or mindful development that counters overtourism."

      Continue reading for fashionably appealing hotels, surf schools, the best beach bars, and more.

      Where to Stay

      In 2005, the Aman hotel group inaugurated an elegant and charming hotel within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Dutch Fort. Having been reconstructed by the Dutch in the 17th century, it began as a military headquarters before British soldiers converted it into a hotel in 1863. "Experience the old-world allure of Amangalla, nestled within Galle Fort's historic walls," Bailey remarks. "With antique four-poster beds, spinning ceiling fans, and a colonial-era veranda, it exudes timelessness. Walk along the 17th-century ramparts at sunset, explore boutiques and galleries, and then sink into a rattan chair for an arrack sour in the library. In the evening, the candlelit dining room serves delightful Sri Lankan dishes. Be sure to try the crab curry."

      "Wild Coast Tented Lodge was my favorite of the four hotels I experienced in Sri Lanka," shares travel journalist Gina Jackson. "This safari hotel is set within lush jungle and along the coast adjacent