The checkout process could be improved slightly: it took quite a long time to check out, making us even a little bit late to arrive to the airport. It would be easier if the restauranst bills (which we had already signed and dated the day before) were already integrated to the final bill so that the front desk staff doesnt have to double check everything on the morning of departure.

The hotel is absolutely phenomenal: the food is delicious, views are lovely, and beach is so serene. The staff are lovely, and do everything with such care: everything from the welcome drink during the check-in, to the constant care and attention with food, logistics, and everything. We told them we were celebrating a special night for our graduation, and they gave us the loveliest room with the sweetest surprise of a mini graduation cake to help us celebrate! We were truly blown away by the generosity and kindness of the staff, and the beauty of the room. It was one of the most beautiful hotel rooms I have stayed in any country! I will definitely choose to stay here again on my next trip! They even made us Sri Lankan coconut pancakes for our early checkout so we could have something to eat at 6am on the way to the airport: truly top notch hospitality!! And so delicious :)

Stayed in August 2025

Everything was perfect! The room the, the services and all of the people working in, really kind and helpful! It worths 100% to stay here!

Stayed in August 2025

Nothing.

Beautifully done hotel, the staff were outstanding, so friendly and could not try harder to please. The rooms were so clean and professionally laid out with frequent room service if required. Great location on the beach. Restaurant food was varied and really good at a decent price, no need to venture out.

Stayed in August 2025

Our stay was absolutely perfect. Despite our last-minute booking, the staff welcomed us warmly and made us feel cared for from the very first moment (a special thanks to Malshi for her kind attention upon our arrival). The hotel is spotless, beautifully designed, and tastefully decorated. The pool is incredible with breathtaking views, the food was outstanding, and the rooftop sushi dinner was truly unforgettable. The staff’s professionalism and kindness made our stay exceptional – highly recommended!”

Stayed in August 2025

The room was very humid. Bed linen was not very clean.

Friendly staff and good service. The breakfast was really nice, including many local cuisines. We went there on off-season, but the beach was very beautiful. We also booked a safari from hotel to see the wild animals, which was truly amazing.

Stayed in August 2025

Nothing.

Good location, right on the beach with a great swimming pool to be in while you look at the sea which can be a little rough to swim in at times.

Stayed in August 2025

Nothing

The service, the staff and the food in 10 out of 10

Stayed in August 2025

We didn't like that we had to leave!

My family of 6 has just spent 4 wonderful nights here. From the moment we arrived to the moment we left, the staff were excellent and the food great in both the main restaurant and True Blue, the Japanese rooftop restaurant. Staff were very helpful, yet not intrusive at all. You could tell that they had taken part in very good hospitality training. Even when we left today, management helped us by arranging a driver when Uber cancelled on us and gave us some lovely tea as a thank you for staying at the hotel.

Stayed in August 2025

room was very comfortable ..loved the roof top bar and sushi restaurant.. the tea based cocktails are amazing

Stayed in July 2025

Very clean and beautiful - staff were so lovely

Stayed in August 2025

Great place and nice extra touch’s with several gifts

Stayed in July 2025

The property is in a stunning beach setting. The pool is lovely and the staff were so welcoming.

Stayed in July 2025

Nothing at all

Hotel is located on the beach with the stunning view, rooms were cleaned twice a day , breakfast was just amazing , stuff is super friendly and we even got massage and a tea as gift 💝

Stayed in July 2025

Nothing

Everything was perfect, starting from the easy check-in to the neat room with the perfect sea view, the food quality and friendly GM and staff. We’ve stayed in Sri Lanka for 4 days We had a terrible experience the first 2 days but Riff hotel diffidently made it up for us we’re highly satisfied and we’re coming back for sure.

Stayed in July 2025

Beach behind the hotel is not safe during the off season.

Very nice beach view from the rooms and only steps away from the hotel.

Stayed in June 2025

-

The Riff in Hikkaduwa! My stay at The Riff was simply unforgettable. The hotel offers a perfect blend of top-notch service, breathtaking location, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at home. The food at The Riff is nothing short of fantastic! The culinary variety, fresh ingredients, and loving preparation leave nothing to be desired. Whether local specialties or international dishes – everything was exquisite and served with great attention to detail. The seafood, in particular, was a highlight! What truly sets The Riff apart are the people – the staff are incredibly friendly, attentive, and always eager to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. You really feel welcomed and appreciated here. Their heartfelt hospitality makes all the difference and creates a relaxed, family-like atmosphere. Overall, The Riff in Hikkaduwa is an absolute gem that I can wholeheartedly recommend to everyone. Everything is just perfect – from the cuisine to the service. I’m already looking forward to my next visit!

Stayed in July 2025

Nothing to dislike!

My husband and l wanted to sincerely thank the amazing team at Riff for an exceptional stay! They have gone above and beyond to turn our visit from a stay to an experience. The upgrade they gave us was beyond expectation and such an unexpected luxury. The cake and wine were such a thoughtful touch also. Riff has made our 25th wedding anniversary such a memorable stay and celebration. A huge commendation to all the staff whose kindness has made us feel so welcome from the moment we arrived. The food was exceptional and we loved the Sri Lankan breakfast experience! We will certainly will be recommending Riff to our friends and family and look forward to our return stay in the future.

Stayed in July 2025

Beautiful large room with huge balcony Lovely pool Great rooftop Beautiful beach Bus stop outside the hotel to catch a local bus to Galle

Stayed in May 2025

The margarita pizza needs to be better. But that’s just nitpicking.

Amazing property! Second time visiting with my family. I visited back in 2019 and it amazed me how they have managed to maintain the standards if not even better. The highlight has to be the Japanese restaurant in the roof top. Best sushi I had in Sri Lanka. Absolutely amazing food.

Stayed in July 2025

It was so amazing we didn’t see anything of hikkaduwa at all. We simply didn’t want to leave

Incredible beach front hotel that took our breath away from the moment we entered. The upstairs restaurant/bar area was perfect for watching the sunset from comfortable outdoor lounges. The infinity pool overlooking the beach was a highlight. Nothing was too much trouble for any of the staff

Stayed in June 2025

Liked it all

From the moment you arrive you feel the refreshing breeze, hear the roar of the ocean see the blue of the sea and the reflection from the pool, you know you are in a special place.

Stayed in June 2025

That we only stayed one night!

An oasis after a week long conference in Sri Lanka. The staff were so welcoming and accommodating. The restaurant options were all fantastic so we did not move from the location.

Stayed in June 2025

That I couldn’t stay longer!

Had an absolutely fantastic experience yet again. The staff are so welcoming, hospitable and friendly. I would list all their names for recognition if I could. The hotel is beautiful, clean, comfortable and relaxing. I was suprised on arrival with a room upgrade with a lovely view of the ocean and beach. The beds are comfortable, very clean room, and peaceful. I booked airport transfer through the hotel and Lasantha was a great driver. The food was delicious and there are both western and local food options to suit everyone. Every time I have stayed at Riff over the years, I have had a great experience. I look forward to returning again and recommend this hotel to anyone who tells me they are going to Sri Lanka. The rooftop is a great spot to watch the sunset and enjoy amazing Japanese cuisine.

Stayed in June 2025

Amazing fabulous hotel Rooms are big and comfortable So friendly very professional staff Special big thank you to manager Mr Lalith and very friendly reception staff Malshi , Ranjith, Beenu Everyone at the hotel just amazing Highly recommended!

Stayed in May 2025