The Rascals Resort is a chic boutique hotel in Kalpitiya. As per the go-to activities in Kalpitiya they've got you covered if you want to kitesurf, paddle-board, or engage in other fun activities during your stay.
Ambience
They're slightly different from their neighbouring resort Anawasal in terms of design, but pretty much the same in all other aspects.
The place is constantly windy, with the soothing tones of rippling waves emanating from the lagoon every now and then.
Towards the evening we could hear sounds of music being played through speakers during what I'm assuming was one heck of a jam sesh.
They've got 11 simplistic cabanas, all painted white with pretty flowers at the porches to add a bit of colour, thatched roofs, the whole jingbang.
There's also a pool, in case you don't feel like going for a dip in the lagoon, so you can lounge around lazily under the hot Kalpitiya sun.
They've got these special cabanas called 'Jungalows' if you feel like being a little extra. These are a bit more luxurious than their basic cabanas with a little more space, extra furniture and other amenities to suit your requests.
The lounge is the meeting spot for all meals, discussions and other cool group activities. You can play games with fellow guests, engage in a bit of a sip-sip and then some.
The bar at the lounge. Image courtesy: The Rascals Kitesurfing Resort
Their main goal here is to keep things as simple and casual as possible. You're sure to make tons of new friends because everyone's nice and social and are always up for a good laugh. Pretty much a home away from home, if you think about it.
The Rooms
The main idea behind Rascals's interior design is to keep things homely, comforting and simple. It's pretty evident in their stark, white walls and simple brown accents.
The cabanas are spacious, well lit and ventilated and if you're seeking refuge after a hot boat ride, you can cool off under the thatched roofs with the ceiling fan on full blast.
The open air bathrooms are just as simple, with polished concrete walls and floors. They've got a picture or two up and a potted plant to liven things up; as if things aren't popping already.
The Food
We were treated to a superb dinner here whilst we were staying at their neighbour resort: Anawasal.
They keep their meals simple, but filling and with an Italian chef manning their kitchens the food is as delicious as it looks.
The lounge is equipped with community tables that everyone gathers at and at each mealtime a loud bell is rung so people know when to hop in for a munch.
For our dinner, we indulged in an excellent serving of fresh, whole baked barramundi, tomato salad, potatoes and yoghurt with a small serving of roast paan. The spice notes were mild to practically nil to suit a more Western palate, but we didn't mind. We got to taste each component in its natural, unadultered form and left the table stuffed and happy.
- The fish was baked so well that all we had to do was give it a slight scrape to have large chunks fall onto our plate. It was seasoned with modest amounts of salt and pepper, a tiny bit of lemon/lime and a few gotukola leaves for garnish.
- The potatoes were soft and tangy, making them the perfect carb accompaniment. The tomato salad was an excellent refresher and combined with the fresh yoghurt, made for an exquisite meal overall.
Service
The idea behind the resort is to bring people closer, so service is very personal and friendly. The local staff manning the counters are incredibly jovial, the entire community is open minded, accepting and super chilled out.
Things To Do
As for their exciting range of outdoor activites, here are a few that you can get up to at Rascals:
A pro kitesurfer taking the reins. Image courtesy: The Rascals Kitesurfing Resort
Kitesurfing: These guys offer a three day training course on kitesurfing so you can learn all about it if and experience it for yourself if you're into the thrill.
The boat at the jetty during sundown. Image courtesy: The Rascals Kitesurfing Resort
Boat rides: there are tons of spectacular things to see around the Kalpitiya Lagoon from private islands to shady mangroves that they'll take you through.
They also offer other activities like paddle-boarding and kayaking, so ask if you're interested.
If you'd rather stay back and chill, then by all means go for it.
Conclusion
Every single one of their guests had positive remarks to make about their stay and experience here. They've got old faithfuls who return every year to kitesurf and hang out, so we took their word when they told us they absolutely love the place.
I mean they're an open and friendly community, they have a huge lineup of things to do and the place is gorgeous. What's not to love?
