Jetwing Lagoon

Part of the well-known Jetwing brand, Jetwing Lagoon was the first resort built by the legendary architect Geoffrey Bawa in 1965. Embracing an eco-conscious concept and sleek, neutral-tone design, the upscale property is certainly a standout. Its position between the Negombo Lagoon and Indian Ocean means guests are surrounded by water, and the grounds are filled with lily ponds, palm trees, and stone pathways. Two pools, one by the beach and another that seemingly stretches the length of the property, are popular gathering spots, as are the open-air restaurants that face the lagoon. The design throughout is contemporary and chic, using lots of wood, terra-cotta tiling, and earth-tone artwork. Given that there are just 55 rooms, the atmosphere is peaceful and quiet, and guests are nearly evenly split between couples and families. 

Jetwing Lagoon is positioned on a strip of land between the Indian Ocean and Negombo Lagoon. However, the strip of beach -- located across a main road from the lobby -- is not a real beach and the water isn't swimmable. Travelers looking to be in the main Negombo area may be disappointed, as it's about a 20-minute drive north. The isolated location means the area is quiet, but there's little within walking distance. Tuk-tuks and taxis can easily be called by staff, though. Many travelers choose the Negombo area upon arriving or before departing Sri Lanka, as it's close to the main international airport. The hotel itself is 30 minutes by car from the airport, and roughly 50 minutes from the capital of Colombo.  

The 55 sleek rooms are all designed in a similar style consisting of terra-cotta tile floors, dark-wood furniture, white walls, white and tan linens, and Dutch colonial chairs. Embellishments are limited to small black-and-white prints along the walls and large canvases with black, white, and rust-colored painted squares. The Bawa Suites have patios with dining tables and benches, and Lagoon Suites have large terraces with dining areas and lounge chairs. Many rooms have elegant outdoor bathrooms with potted plants, but all are large and have showers and separate bathtubs; the Lagoon Suites include whirlpool tubs.Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, minibars, air-conditioning, free bottled water, kettles, French-press coffeemakers, and Sri Lankan coffee and tea. Wardrobes are also stocked with bathrobes, sandals, safes, ironing facilities, and hairdryers, as well as reusable bottles of toiletries and umbrellas. There's some wear and tear, but generally rooms are impressive.  

Jetwing Lagoon has upscale facilities, though they're largely catered toward adults. The most striking feature is the main outdoor pool, which stretches 100 meters (328 feet) and is surrounded by cushioned wooden loungers, daybeds, a smattering of umbrellas, and lots of palm trees. Guests can head across the street to the other, smaller pool next to the ocean. It's not the most well-manicured area, but there are loungers, a volleyball net, and a couple of cabanas. For additional leisure, the spa offers a variety of affordable Ayurveda treatments. The gym has cardio and strength-training equipment and free weights, but it's due for an update. Water sports, such as kayaks, are available for use in the lagoon. Blue Lagoon is the casual open-air restaurant open for all three meals, serving local and international cuisine. Another open-air facing the lagoon, Geoffrey's Pavilion offers fine dining. Between the two restaurants is Kalapuwa Bar & Lounge, serving a variety of drinks in a small, couch-filled space. A bar is also located by each pool.