Matara holiday homes

We found 312 holiday rentals — enter your dates for availability
Discover a selection of 11 homes, 18 villas and holiday rentals in Matara that are perfect for your trip. Holiday homes offer the amenities that you expect for you and your friends, family or even pets, such as a fireplace and garden. Whatever you're looking for, you're sure to find a property to rent for everyone's needs, including a place that is accessible or non-smoking.
  • Peace of mind

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  • More quality time

    From booking to staying, the whole process is simple and enjoyable
  • All the privacy of home

    Enjoy full kitchens, laundry, pools, gardens and more
  • More for less

    More space, more privacy, more amenities — more value

Why visit Matara

  • Stunning Beaches: Relax on Matara's beautiful beaches, ideal for sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
  • Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local heritage through traditional markets and vibrant community life.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy various outdoor activities, from water sports to exploring scenic coastal trails.
  • Historic Landmarks: Discover the rich history of Matara by visiting its ancient temples and colonial architecture.
  • Welcoming Atmosphere: Experience the friendly vibe of Matara, making it a perfect destination for both families and solo travellers.

Top attractions near Matara

Matara in Sri Lanka is a vibrant coastal city offering pristine beaches, scenic capes, and a busy harbour that capture the local culture and natural beauty. Ideal for outdoor and adventure holidays, visitors can explore its diverse attractions that blend beachside relaxation with cultural experiences, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and a glimpse into local heritage.

  • Mirissa Beach: A stunning beach known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the vibrant beach atmosphere. Ideal for whale watching and water sports.
  • Madiha Beach: A serene and picturesque spot, Madiha Beach is renowned for its tranquil vibes and gentle waves, making it a great place for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Matara Beach: Located close to the city centre, Matara Beach offers a lively coastal scene with local food stalls and beautiful sunsets, perfect for a leisurely evening stroll.

Things to do recommended for couples

For a romantic getaway in Matara, enjoy a sunset beach stroll along Polhena Beach, just 2 km from the city centre. Explore the charming local markets together, or take a scenic boat ride on the river to spot playful dolphins. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and intimacy.

Things to do recommended for families

Families visiting Matara can enjoy a day at the beautiful Polhena Beach, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Explore the vibrant fish at the marine sanctuary or visit the nearby turtle hatchery for an educational and heartwarming experience with baby turtles.

Things to do recommended for groups

Experience Matara's charm with a visit to local spice markets, a group cycling tour along the coast, and a traditional meal at a seaside village. Enjoy immersive cultural encounters and scenic vistas perfect for your New Zealand crew seeking authentic adventures.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Matara

When planning your trip—whether it's with a group, family, pets, or for an extended stay—be sure to apply the appropriate filters to match your priorities. Here are some helpful Vrbo booking tips to guide you.

  • Traveling to Matara with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you’ll require, along with features like a fully equipped kitchen or outdoor areas for group gatherings. Thankfully, you can easily filter for these preferences and more on Vrbo.
  • Traveling to Matara with young kids: Travelling with young children can present its own set of challenges. It’s important to prioritise their comfort and safety, alongside ensuring access to suitable facilities like a private swimming pool. Additionally, it's wise to think about how close you are to family-friendly attractions.
  • Taking your pets with you to Matara: For many families, a trip wouldn’t feel complete without their furry companion by their side. If this resonates with you, take a look at Vrbo properties that welcome pets. Most of these pet-friendly accommodations offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and at home.
  • Planning for a long term stay visiting Matara: If you're after holiday rentals with long-term deals, you've come to the right spot. By using the appropriate filter, you can effortlessly find and save on monthly bookings. You might also want to include options like a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or your own private pool in your search.

Where to stay near Matara

Matara, nestled in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant city perfect for beach and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore its lively town centre, enjoy the friendly atmosphere, and unwind on stunning beaches. The area offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, making it ideal for families and solo travellers alike. With its welcoming vibe, Matara invites you to experience the rich culture and natural beauty that this charming destination has to offer.

  • Weligama: Weligama is a vibrant coastal city located 14km from Matara, famed for its stunning beaches and surfing spots. The town is a hub for outdoor adventures, where you can enjoy activities like surfing, snorkelling, and whale watching. Visitors can explore local shopping centres and enjoy the picturesque scenery that includes the breathtaking coastline and national parks. The nearby landmarks, such as the sandy beach and lush state parks, provide an ideal backdrop for relaxation and exploration, making Weligama a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
  • Mirissa: Mirissa, situated 10km from Matara, is another gem on Sri Lanka's southern coast. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life, Mirissa is a popular destination for those looking to embrace outdoor adventures. The town offers a variety of activities, including boat tours, whale watching, and exploring the scenic coastline. With its local shopping centres and charming cafés, Mirissa invites you to relax and soak in the stunning views. The proximity to national parks adds opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting, making Mirissa a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
  • Talalla: Just 8km from Matara, Talalla is a serene beach town renowned for its pristine beaches and tranquil atmosphere. This destination is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat while enjoying outdoor activities like swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Talalla boasts family-friendly beaches and lush surroundings, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. Visitors can explore local shopping centres and campgrounds, enhancing the experience of connecting with nature. With its stunning natural beauty and relaxed vibe, Talalla is an excellent choice for those looking to unwind and enjoy the coast.

Best time to go to Matara

If you're planning a trip to Matara, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is April.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly High
February79.2°F (26.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly High
March80.6°F (27.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage
April81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage
May81.7°F (27.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly Low
June81.0°F (27.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly Low
July80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage
August80.1°F (26.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage
September79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly High
October79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly Low
November79.3°F (26.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage
December78.8°F (26.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverage

Booking with Vrbo is simple

Looking to save on your upcoming break? Consider being flexible with your travel dates, as prices can fluctuate. Additionally, extending your stay can often result in significant savings. To locate the ideal Vrbo property that suits your budget, simply utilise our filters to search by price, location, and type of holiday rental.

Vrbo Trips: Effortless planning

Vrbo's clever Trip Board offers you a dedicated space to plan new adventures, pick up right where you left off, or organise your travel arrangements. You can easily find your previously saved and booked properties under Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To start using Trip Boards, simply visit: https://www.bookabach.co.nz/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

Travel to friendly Matara

The area's temples and monuments are just some of the reasons to come on holiday to Matara. Well known for its seaside, surfing and beaches, this welcoming city won't disappoint. If you need more space to accommodate a family holiday or a trip with friends, rental homes often come with separate dining areas and spacious living rooms.

Activities and attractions in Matara

Are you hoping to discover attractions to see while you're in the area? Venture out of your cosy holiday rental and experience everything that makes Matara a one-of-a-kind holiday spot. Here are some of the major attractions to see, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Parewella Natural Swimming Area (17.5 mi / 28.1 km)
  • Eagles' Catalina Golf Course (16 mi / 25.8 km)

Exploring the natural landscape of Matara

Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to take in the scenery, Matara is a great place to get out in nature. Here are a few of the area's most eye-catching features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Mirissa Beach (6.7 mi / 10.7 km)
  • Polhena Beach (2.4 mi / 3.8 km)
  • Madiha Beach (2.8 mi / 4.5 km)
  • Secret Beach (7.2 mi / 11.6 km)
  • Weligama Beach (8 mi / 12.8 km)
  • Dickwella Beach (9.4 mi / 15 km)

Frequently asked questions

What is the most popular type of holiday home accommodation in Matara?
According to our data, villas are the most desirable type of holiday property in Matara. But that goes without saying, everyone's idea of the perfect trip isn't the same. Bookabach has holiday homes in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you're bound to find your ideal fit.
How much does it cost to rent a holiday home in Matara?
A number of factors can influence what you'll pay for a holiday home in Matara, such as the time of year, length of stay and property type. However, all our holiday homes have one thing in common — exceptional value. Simply add your travel dates to find your ideal escape.
How much does it cost to rent a beach house in Matara?
Prices for beach houses in Matara will vary depending on the type and size of the property and time of year you're travelling. Simply enter your travel dates into Bookabach and the number of guests to view your holiday home options and prices. From there you can use our filter tool to refine your search by nearby activities, amenities, ratings and more.
Are there pet-friendly holiday homes in Matara?
With 19 holiday homes that allow pets, your furry buddy can join you on your Matara break. Use our filter tool to browse our pet-friendly holiday homes and find your pawfect holiday home on Bookabach.
Can I rent a house with a pool in Matara?
Check the "pool" box in our handy filter tool and pick from nine houses with private pools in Matara on Bookabach. Morning swim, sunset soak or midnight dip? Free time is up to you when your holiday home comes with a swimming pool.
What are popular home amenities in Matara?
Some of the most popular home amenities people prefer in Matara are a firepit, a beach view and a water view. Whether you're hitting the road with family, your besties or even pets, Bookabach holiday properties feature the best amenities for beginning new traditions with the people who matter most.
Are there large group holiday homes in Matara?
With four holiday homes that can sleep 10 or more guests in Matara, you don't have to keep your invite list short. From fun family get-togethers to special events like anniversary parties and weddings, Bookabach can help you find a large group home that fits the occasion.
Are there holiday homes in Matara that welcome kids?
Matara has 17 family-friendly holiday homes. And discovering a stay that welcomes little ones is a breeze with Bookabach's "Properties good for families" filter. As well as having the entire place to yourselves, you'll enjoy access to conveniences and perks such as multiple bedrooms, kitchens and yards.
What are the top attractions for families in Matara?
If you're travelling with the kids, include these family-friendly attractions in Matara on your list of things to do:

  • Star Fort
  • Our Lady of Matara Shrine

Are there one-bedroom holiday homes in Matara?
You'll find six one-bedroom properties in Matara to choose from. A one-bedroom holiday property is a great choice if it's only the two of you or if you're holidaying alone. Toss in more space, convenience and privacy than a regular hotel, and you're bound to have a break to remember.
Can I find two-bedroom holiday homes in Matara?
Take your pick of three two-bedroom holiday homes in Matara. Put the kids in the second room or fill it with a couple of your nearest and dearest friends. There's ample space for whoever's lucky enough to be coming along for the ride.
Are there holiday homes with WiFi in Matara?
Whether you'd like to keep up with the latest headlines, reply to emails or update your social media, there are nine holiday homes with WiFi in Matara. Check the "WiFi" box when searching on Bookabach and stay connected on your holiday.
How can I find holiday homes with air conditioning in Matara?
Pick your travel dates and then make use of the filters to locate holiday homes with air conditioning in Matara on Bookabach. With 13 air-conditioned properties available, you can enjoy a cool and comfy stay.
How old do you have to be to rent a holiday home in Matara?
It's a good idea to check with the Matara holiday home you want on Bookabach as the age limit varies. However, typically it's 16, 18 or 21.
How long can I rent a holiday home in Matara for?
It's really down to the Matara property. To look over a list of options offering extended stays, just enter your dates and guest number into Bookabach. Enjoy having the place to yourself, along with comforts such as a kitchen, air conditioning and a backyard where your little ones can play. Be on the lookout for any long-term stays that offer discounted weekly or monthly prices.