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OverviewCoral Gardens is the underwater grove of the Paradise Isle and the cradle of underwater adventure, and the best location on the Western seaboard of Sri Lanka for scuba diving and snorkeling, not just to explore the reef and its rich species diversity but shipwrecks several centuries old. It is also the ideal exploratory hub for those waiting to explore the inland treasures ranging from rain forests, wildlife parks, boat rides through mangroves, and the rich cultural landscape along the Southern coastlineCoral Gardens is the pioneer beach hotel of Sri Lanka. Facing the splendid coral reefs of Hikkaduwa with the best beach-front garden within a radius of 20 miles, the hotel is world renown for what it has to offer by way of underwater adventure. A professional team of trainers will test your skill level and help you make the best use of the available facilities for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are 15 diving locations to pick from, including two ancient shipwrecks. And for the absolute amateur, there are glass-bottomed boats that will take you around the reef. Be dazzled by the wonderful sea life in all the colours of the rainbow or by the sun-drenched beach. Sit by the poolside with a fresh fruit drink, or on a bench with a book and let the gentle breeze wrap you in the most ancient of tales. Or take a break from sun, sea and sand and explore the many wonders that lie not too far inland from the hotel.Hikkaduwa is referred to as the cradle of tourism in Sri Lanka, its main attraction being the magnificent coral reef. Coral Gardens, built in the 1960s, is the pioneer beach hotel. It was the model that was emulated thereafter in other parts of the country. Of course these hotels did not have coral reefs to offer, nor did they have a history of diving and snorkeling. Almost half a century is a long time; time enough to grow and develop with the changing times. The excellence that can only come with experience is yours to savour.Rooms150 comfortable standard and superior rooms with air-conditioning, bath/shower, WC, telephone, radio, all rooms facing the Indian Ocean, superior rooms with mini bar and satellite TV.RestaurantsFood is crucial and the staff of Coral Gardens has taken this to heart. The kitchen prides itself in always providing a wide array of dishes to satisfy every taste. A generous spread of international cuisine is well complemented by exotic Sri Lankan dishes. The "international" element is accentuated every night with a special "ethnic" corner. Food goes down better if the ambience is right. The elegantly designed restaurant is a nice place to sit and dine and also makes a hang-out place to sit and relax. The poolside bar on the other hand, will give you a snack and a drink if you really dont want to get out of your swimsuit and are loathe to leave the sun and breeze.Sports & LeisureLarge freshwater swimming pool with childrens pool, sun deck with deck chairs and sun shades, tennis court with flood lights, table tennis, volley ball, darts, squash court, water sports, gymnasium, sauna & health club, underwater sports, boat excursions, glass bottomed boat rides (to see the coral banks), fishing, well equipped diving centre (November till April), discotheque/nightclub.
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