This simple collection of rooms has been around for almost 25 years, and the atmosphere is pure surfer-casual which is appropriate, given that Arugam Bay is Sri Lanka's surf hotspot. Seven rustic treehouses on stilts have views and cool breezes, and there are six more rooms on the ground (some have shared bathrooms, ask before you book). The popular restaurant turns out set lunches of fresh Sri Lankan seafood and hosts barbecues on Friday nights grab a seat at the long communal table and strike up a chat with some of the surfers who have been coming to stay with legendary owner Ranga for decades. A loosely fenced-in outdoor area has tables and hammocks interspersed with scrubby trees just a few metres from the sea the perfect place to hang loose with a lassi.
+94 773 179 594, Facebook page, double rooms from £10
Sri Lanka has some of Asia's loveliest, most surf-able beaches and plenty of affordable places to stay. Here are 10 of the best hotels and guesthouses, starting at just £5 a night