Sri Lanka's east coast gets swell from the southern Indian Ocean, and is best from May to September when the prevailing wind is offshore every morning. The beach break in front of the Stardust Hotel can be OK for body surfing, but the best waves are right-hand point breaks.

Well-known Arugam Point ("The Point") is a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Pottuvil Point and Crocodile Rock ("Croc Rock") are less than 30 minutes away in a local 'tuk tuk'. Several other points can be reached by road.

The main building at Stardust Beach Hotel was designed by architect and owner Merete Scheller, and completed in 2005. The spacious double rooms include private bathroom, telephone, fridge and your own terrace with views over Arugam Bay. Comforts include quality mattresses, mosquito net, ceiling fan and natural cooling from the delightful sea breeze.

The area has heaps of holiday activities. You can go surfing, relax on the beach, watch the fishing boats or shop in the local market. Visit some of the historic temples near the village, check out the lagoon where elephants have their evening 'shower' and do a day trip to Lahugala National Park to see wild elephants. Nearby Yala National Park has an astonishing range of birdlife.

Atoll Travel can book a stay at the Stardust Beach Hotel, whether you're looking for a low stress surf holiday or a relaxing stopover on a tour around fascinating Sri Lanka.