08/09/2026
The Cove Hiriketiya announced the launch of its nine-room boutique property on Hiriketiya Bay, Dikwella, on Sri Lanka's south coast, approximately three hours by road from Colombo and Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).
Reservations are open now, with launch festivities beginning on-site in Hiriketiya on 3 October 2026.
The Cove sits on the corner of the bay elevated three metres above as a beachfront property commanding a singular view across the full sweep of Hiriketiya’s horseshoe-shaped coastline.
The property was founded by a Melbourne-based investor, Paul McCann, together with Sri Lankan-Australian technology entrepreneur, Krishan Deegalla, after several years spent watching Hiriketiya's slow rise from a surf-town secret into one of South Asia’s most talked-about destinations.
"We didn't set out to build a resort," says Paul McCann, founder of The Cove. "We wanted three villas, a very good view and a place that felt like home away from home."
The interiors and the design draw inspiration from tropical modernism and a philosophy of simplicity. Each building is finished in a bespoke shade of deep jungle green, allowing the architecture to recede seamlessly into its natural surroundings rather than stand out. The rooms are furnished with Sri Lankan antiques, hand-picked materials and textiles from across the island with intention behind every decision to offer the best local experience for its guests.
Hiriketiya still feels like it's being discovered," McCann adds. "We wanted The Cove to belong to that moment, not compete with it."
The property comprises three villas and nine rooms across a 150-perch land on the hilltop. Villa Sagara occupies the most coveted position by the water with two king rooms opening directly onto the bay where the proximity of the waves creates a deeply immersive experience.
Villa Saman is set further into the property, its two king rooms wrapped in greenery with a private pool and terrace built for a slower, more contained stay.
Villa Rella is the largest of the three, with four king rooms and one twin room arranged around its own private pool and lounge built for groups who want their own space while staying within reach of each other.
Another common courtyard stands facing the Indian Ocean for the guests to sit back and relax at any time of day. Throughout the stay, dining is orchestrated by The Cove’s private chef, who draws on unique flavours and techniques for the best gastronomic experience and are prepared exclusively for guests staying on the property. Coffee is freshly prepared for guests to enjoy at their leisure, from mornings on the terrace to slow afternoons overlooking the surroundings.
Staying true to its focus on wellness, plans are underway to incorporate additional facilities such as a sauna, an ice bath, and three treatment rooms overlooking the views of the bay. The wellness space is expected to open in November 2026.
With rates starting from USD 250 for individual bookings, full-villa and entire-property reservations, accommodating parties of up to 22, are available upon request.
Beyond its setting, The Cove's positioning rests on what it leaves out as much as what it includes. Rather than a checklist of amenities, guests are offered space and privacy, design attention that shows up in the quality of materials rather than the quantity of features, and a dining table for the best culinary taste. It is a property built from the outset for experiential seekers and explorers who already know the difference.
With a ‘calm inside and Hiriketiya outside,’ The Cove Hiriketiya is set to open for bookings on 3rd October 2026.
