Any holiday abroad is not complete without tales of local taverns and drunken adventures. On your holiday in Sri Lanka, you will find that bars are popular establishments, especially within the thriving economic hub that is Colombo. If you’re keen to meet friendly locals and devour familiar and scrumptious pub fare, bars are the best places to go.
If you’re stuck on where to go or would like to have your alcohol with a view to boot, take a look at our recommendations on the best places in Colombo for stunning vistas and great drinks!
Cloud Red - Cinnamon Red, Colombo
Offering patrons a breathtaking view of city lights and Colombo’s rapidly transforming metropolis, catching a round of drinks at Cloud Red is an experience not to be missed out on.
Located in the heart of the city, the bar cocoons its visitors in a lush and cosy atmosphere perfect for kicking off your weekend in style. As you can guess, the bar’s theme and lights centre on everything ‘red’, suffusing the space in warm lighting and setting the perfect mood. Grab a drink, or two, or three at Cloud Red on your sojourn in Sri Lanka and get a taste of the lush island life you seek!
Buba Beach - Mount Lavinia
A little different from Cloud Red and other city bars, Buba Beach offers it guests sweeping views of a different kind; the sea. With the golden hued horizon at the far end of one’s sight and a ice-cold cocktail in your hand, enjoy yourself a bona fide Lankan experience at this quiet coastal haven.
Located on the infinitely popular Mount Lavinia beach, there’s an endless list of things you can do here before or after you pay this watering hole a leisurely visit. If you’re feeling a little ravenous after a quick stroll on the beach, you can also indulge in some of the fresh seafood the country is famous for. Indulge in all your senses at this idyllic beachside bar!
ON14 - Ozo, Colombo
Another popular spot for Colombo’s bright, young things, ON14 is an excellent respite from the rush and hubbub of post-work traffic. Its location on Marine Drive makes it a convenient stop for the numerous tourists who find accommodation in this area or at Ozo itself, making boozy breaks a very convenient exercise during their holiday.
While the bar is sufficiently spacious, getting a seat overlooking the stunning views that surround it is hard-won. Make your way to the hotel’s rooftop early in the evening and unwind to panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and Colombo’s glittering city streets.
For guests who stay at the hotel, there’s an added perk - sip on your drinks while tanning poolside or while taking a quick swim at sunset.
Ward 7 - Jetwing Colombo Seven
If you’re looking for an indulgent and classy affair at least once on your trip, the experience at Ward 7 is what you’re after. Extravagant twists on standard pub fare are a speciality here, along with well-executed cocktails, all against the backdrop of a captivating sunset and infinity pool overlooking the city.
As with Cloud Red, Ward 7 is similarly located in the heart of Colombo 07, the city’s hub for everything social. Those patrons whose wallets can sustain the damage done by this popular spot, will leave buzzing with great drinks and a belly-full of memorable dishes. If you’ve got the cash, Ward 7 is a must-visit on your boozy exploration of Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, Colombo.
The Shore by O - Mount Lavinia
If you want to know where the party’s at during your holiday, make sure you include the Shore by O as part of your weekend itinerary. Offering up guests an atmosphere fuelled by the smell of salt and the feel of refreshing sea breeze, this famous spot is perfect for a drink and some dancing every Friday and Saturday night.
While the establishment is just one of the many watering holes strung along the coastal strip of Mount Lavinia, it is undoubtedly the most well known and frequently visited by all those down for a good time in the city.
At Fernando Travels our aim is to give you a holiday worth remembering. Contact us today for unparalleled support and assistance in planning your holiday to Sri Lanka!