Sun Aqua Pasikudah boasts luxurious five-star suites, combining true Sri Lankan hospitality with Maldivian expertise in relaxing resort experiences

Afternoons in Pasikudah are best spent lounging about lazily in the suite or in the pool to beat the heat

By Marianne David

A five-star beach resort on the coastline of Sri Lanka’s sun-drenched east, Sun Aqua Pasikudah is one of its lesser-known treasures.

The beautiful property boasts luxurious five-star suites and a playful, vibrant spirit, combining true Sri Lankan hospitality with Maldivian expertise in relaxing resort experiences.

We were hard-pressed to choose between the beach, infinity pool and luxurious suite when we got there in the late afternoon, but the hot sun drove us inside soon enough after a quick look around.

Our suite was very welcoming – cool, comfortable and well-appointed, with plush furniture and fittings and lovely linen. All the suites feature big bathrooms and wide verandas or balconies with views of the sea.

Culinary delights

Well rested, towards evening it was time to enjoy a walk on the beach and drinks by the pool, followed by dinner. 

Most of our meals were at the main restaurant serving up food buffet style, with seafood being in the spotlight throughout. The hotel also has a great a la carte menu, featuring fresh, locally-sourced and organic ingredients.

Sun Aqua Pasikudah has one of the largest wine cellars in Sri Lanka, ensuring that the delicious food can be accompanied by equally delicious wines.

Their exquisite Kalkudah crab curry is an absolute must; soak up the gravy with thick slices of bread – every mouthful is deeply satisfying – and then dig into the crab with both hands, leaving all restraint aside. 

Catching the sunrise

Leaving the suite in the early hours while it was still dark outside required some will power the next morning, but the sunrise certainly made up for it. 

Standing on the shore and watching the dark shades of blue turn lighter as the sun ever so slowly emerged from among the clouds and the almost-still sea started shimmering was an uplifting and unforgettable experience.

If you’re into adventure, check out the water sports early in the day or late in the evening or go cycling in the area, but leave the afternoons for lounging about lazily in the suite or the pool to beat the heat. 

Interesting excursions

From fantastic diving spots and snorkelling to explore the beautiful coral reefs, along with the many excursions available, there’s always plenty to do here.

Some of the more interesting options offered by Sun Aqua Pasikudah are the ‘Pasikudah Lifestyle Journey,’ Polonnaruwa, Minneriya safari, Sigiriya and Dambulla, ‘Culinary Gastronomy,’ and whale and dolphin watching.

Explore the ancient cities if you haven’t already and then head out to sea for whale and dolphin watching, all of which make for unforgettable experiences. If you prefer to remain in the vicinity, do try the ‘Pasikudah Lifestyle Journey’ excursion but if you’re more interested in food-related adventures, try out ‘Culinary Gastronomy’ and learn how to cook some super Sri Lankan food, including street food!

Peaceful Pasikudah

Sun Aqua Pasikudah and Sun Aqua Vilu Reef in the Maldives are the first chapters of the Sun Aqua story, whilst Sun Aqua Iru Veli added to the portfolio last December saw the expansion of this boutique brand across the Indian Ocean and Asia.

While Government efforts to position Pasikudah more prominently are underway, the east coast is still comparatively quieter and as a result more enjoyable for those seeking to unwind in peace and enjoy the location at leisure.

Want to holiday in a private paradise? Sun Aqua Pasikudah is the perfect place to be.

The beautiful property boasts luxurious five-star suites - cool, comfortable and well-appointed, with plush furniture and fittings

Sun Aqua Pasikudah has one of the largest wine cellars in Sri Lanka, ensuring that the delicious food can be accompanied by equally delicious wines

The friendly, helpful and super-efficient staff ensure unforgettable stays

Most of our meals were at the main restaurant serving up food buffet style, with seafood being in the spotlight throughout

Pasikudah: Perfect all year round!

People visit Pasikudah mainly for relaxation and to have a unique experience, says Operations Manager Arshed Refai, adding, “You don’t find beaches like in Pasikudah in any other part of the country!”

The property offers a unique brand of hospitality since it is a foreign chain, he pointed out, revealing that Maldivian company Sun Siyam led by Maldivian entrepreneur Ahmed Siyam Mohamed came to Sri Lanka because Ahmed Siyam believed in Sri Lanka’s potential.

Sun Aqua Pasikudah, an investment of $ 11 million, spans 3.7 acres with 34 suites, 10 of which feature private plunge pools, along with several dining options and exciting excursions lined up to ensure guest satisfaction.

“From our food offerings to excursions, all aspects are carefully curated to ensure a superior and unforgettable stay,” Refai asserts.

Resident Manager Thoha Yoosuf, a Maldivian national, keeps the place running smoothly in his laidback style, echoing the property’s naturally playful spirit while ensuring unforgettable stays. He is ably supported by the friendly, helpful and super-efficient staff. With no specific seasons to visit Pasikudah now, unlike in the past, Yoosuf reveals the property is a great place to be all year round.