Dinuda Lagoon, Kalpitiya Blend of wind, waves and wilderness

With its steady winds, warm tropical waters and vast flat-water lagoons, Kalpitiya has earned a reputation as Sri Lanka’s premier destination for kiteboarding and kitesurfing. Widely regarded as one of the finest locations in the region for both kiteboarders and wave riders, the peninsula offers ideal conditions for beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike, attracting water sports lovers from around the world.

Among its many points, ‘Dutch Bay’ stands out as a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Located between the Kalpitiya peninsula and the Indian Ocean, the picturesque Dutch Bay Lagoon provides ideal conditions for kiteboarding, windsurfing, kayaking and surfing.

While colourful kites dance across the sky, the lagoon also sustains the livelihoods of local fishing communities, making Dutch Bay a unique destination where adventure and tradition blend seamlessly.

Stretching from Kudawa, Dutch Bay Island extends nearly 32 kilometres northwards to the ocean off Wellamundalama, close to the famed Wilpattu National Park. The southern part of the bay is particularly popular among kiteboarders, thanks to its shallow, calm waters and steady winds. Closer to the open sea, wave kitesurfing attracts more experienced riders seeking the thrill of larger swells and more challenging conditions.

MD Wasantha  Withanage

With the kitesurfing season running from June to October, when wind conditions are at their best, Kalpitiya now attracts a growing number of water sports enthusiasts from around the world, further strengthening its reputation as one of Asia’s leading kitesurfing destinations.

Catering to kiteboarders, kitesurfers and water sports enthusiasts alike, ‘Dinuda Lagoon Hotel’ has become a popular holiday destination for adventure seekers. Located in Sethawadiya on the west coast of the Kalpitiya peninsula and bordering the breathtaking Dutch Bay Lagoon, Dinuda Lagoon Hotel serves as a welcoming haven for travellers exploring the region.

Surrounded by serene waters and unspoilt natural beauty, the hotel offers direct access to some of the best kiteboarding and kitesurfing spots in Kalpitiya. Guests can spend their days riding the wind across the lagoon, kayaking through tranquil waters or simply soaking in spectacular sunsets over the Indian Ocean.

Nestled in a peaceful and somewhat remote setting, ‘Dinuda Lagoon’ offers guests the perfect escape, combining comfort, serenity and unspoilt natural beauty. What began in 2011 as a modest four-room bungalow has gradually grown into one of the region’s well-known hospitality establishments catering to water sports enthusiasts visiting Kalpitiya. Today, Dinuda Lagoon features 18 well-appointed rooms, including two stylish modern glass cabanas located just steps away from the lagoon, eight deluxe rooms and eight spacious family rooms designed to accommodate couples, families and groups of friends.

The family rooms offer a restful and airy ambience, tastefully furnished and equipped with modern conveniences, making them ideal for families or groups seeking a relaxing holiday getaway.

Housed in separate chalets, each unit features air-conditioned bedrooms, spacious living areas, satellite television and a large open-front veranda overlooking the lagoon with a large number of kiteboarders. Thoughtfully designed to blend comfort with the surrounding natural beauty, the rooms provide guests with a tranquil retreat complemented by a full range of modern amenities.

‘The name ‘Dinuda’ comes from my daughter’s name and the lagoon resort was created to offer both a relaxing and adventurous holiday experience for travellers seeking an escape from fast-paced city life’ said Wasantha Kumar Withanage, Managing Director of Dinuda Lagoon Resort and the current Chairman of the ‘Kalpitiya Hoteliers Association’(KHA).

‘It has become especially popular among kitesurfers, kiteboarders and  other water sports enthusiasts. But now we offer a range of activities including adventure excursions and boat cruises to Gangewadiya, Baththalangunduwa, Uchchimuni, Mohothuwaram and even Wilpattu’ Wasantha added.

Beyond its adventure offerings, Dinuda Lagoon has also earned a reputation for its extensive seafood cuisine, prepared daily using the freshest catch from the surrounding seas and lagoons. Situated close to some of the island’s richest fishing grounds, the resort enjoys access to an abundance of lagoon crabs, prawns, lobsters and a wide variety of fish.

‘Fresh seafood from the sea and lagoon is prepared using traditional Sri Lankan recipes and remains a favourite among both local and foreign guests. Seafood prepared by Chef Ismail, who brings years of experience to the kitchen, is not just a meal but a culinary journey’ said Wasantha.

BBQ dinners featuring seafood purchased directly from local fishermen are also a popular attraction. In keeping with the resort’s eco-friendly approach, fresh vegetables are sourced from nearby farmers, while traditional Sri Lankan cuisine continues to be a favourite among local travellers.

The Resort is equipped with well-maintained boats, kayaks and kitesurfing equipment, while boat rides and excursions can be arranged on request. Guests can also enjoy activities such as oyster picking, mangrove boat tours and 4WD adventure drives along the coastline and surrounding areas. Popular excursions include visits to St. Anthony’s Church in Mohothuwaram and the Velankanni Church in Uchchimuni, priced at Rs. 4000/- per person including breakfast and lunch, based on a minimum group of eight participants.

Night camping excursions to Baththalangunduwa, Uchchimuni and Gangewadiya are also among the most sought-after experiences offered by the resort.

‘Boat safaris to Gangewadiya and the surrounding wilderness, along with dolphin and whale watching excursions, are particularly popular among domestic travellers’ Wasantha said. ‘We also organise jeep safaris to Wilpattu National Park, and guests can even enjoy a scenic boat ride across the lagoon to reach the park’.

Kalpitiya also transforms into a haven for migratory birds during the winter months, offering birdwatchers an unforgettable experience. Cultural and historical excursions to Kuveni’s Castle within Wilpattu National Park, the Kalpitiya Dutch Fort and the historic Thalawila Church continue to attract Sri Lankan travellers.