Short answer — for a true ultra-luxury, ultra‑quiet beach experience pick Amanwella (Tangalle). If you want dramatic cliffside villas, service and more activities, consider Cape Weligama (Weligama). Other top luxury alternatives are Anantara Peace Haven (Tangalle) and Wild Coast Tented Lodge (near Yala). (Aman.com)

Why Amanwella is my top pick

• Secluded, minimalist 30‑suite resort set on a quiet crescent beach in Tangalle — excellent for privacy, couples and honeymooners. (Aman.com)
• Every suite has a private plunge pool and ocean views; service and design focus on calm, understated luxury. (ifonly.net)
• About a 3.5–4 hour drive from Bandaranaike/Colombo International Airport (or ~1 hour from Mattala for some flights), so it feels remote and restorative. (Aman.com)

Why consider Cape Weligama

• Dramatic clifftop setting with spacious villas (many with private pools), strong culinary program and more family-friendly facilities (new beach club, kids’ offerings after recent refresh). Great if you want panoramic sunset views and easy access to surfing/whale‑watching at Mirissa. (resplendentceylon.com)

Other luxury options (quick notes)

• Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle — large beachfront resort with full spa, activities and family amenities (good balance of luxury + facilities). (ceylonlanka.info)
• Wild Coast Tented Lodge (Relais & Châteaux) — beachfront luxury tents next to Yala for combining beach with safari. (ceylonlanka.info)

Practical tips

• Best time for south‑ and west‑coast beach weather: roughly November–April (avoid heavy rains September–October on the south coast). East coast is opposite (May–October). (thetimes.co.uk)
• Transfer times: Colombo airport → Tangalle/Amanwella ≈ 3.5–4 hours by car; Colombo → Weligama/Cape Weligama ≈ 2.5–3 hours (traffic dependent). (Aman.com)
• Price guidance: Amanwella and Cape Weligama sit at the top end — expect luxury‑resort nightly rates (seasonal) — book early for high season (Dec–Mar).

If you like, I can:

• Compare Amanwella vs Cape Weligama side‑by‑side (rooms, pools, dining, family vs couples suitability, sample rates for your travel dates), or
• Check live availability and best rate for specific dates and help book transfers.