Ripple Beach Inn

I was looking specifically for a beach front hotel on Hulhumale island. I selected this hotel based on price, room size and because it was a penthouse suite with a sea view balcony. Let’s start with the not-so-good things. It is really a boutique hotel/guesthouse, which is probably similar to most accommodations along this stretch of the island as we discovered. It doesn’t have a lift, and the stairs were very narrow, which, again is probably similar to other establishments in the area. The penthouse was on the top floor, which is kind of converted from an attic, so the headroom is low at some parts of the room. We requested for an insecticide spray after we checked into the room as there were some mosquitoes. Upon spraying the insecticide at the corners of the room and under the furniture, it forced several cockroaches out and I had to deal with them. The shower is one of the areas with low headroom, resulting in the shower head being installed at a height of about 3 feet. This made taking a shower standing upright very difficult and often times you’d have to squat or kneel. The balcony also had a low roof so there’s very limited space for you to stand and admire the sea view, add to that some dilapidated wooden rails, it didn’t entice one to spend more time out on the balcony. Breakfast was provided but we were served the exact same food, consisting of toast, omelette and sausage, every morning throughout our stay. Now for the good things, though I’m hard-pressed to find many to write about. It is conveniently located, with many convenient stores, shops and good restaurants around the area within walking distance. The beach is just right in front of the hotel so it’s easy to walk across the road and have a dip in the sea. The hotel staff were helpful and organized a snorkeling excursion for us which was enjoyable. Having said all that, I would imagine the same qualities can be said of the dozens other hotels in the same area or along the same stretch of the beach. All in all, I wouldn’t say it was a dreadful stay, but for the price I expected somewhat of a more comfortable and accommodating room. Then again, I might be wrong as that may be the going rate for such a 3-star accommodation in the area and you’d have to pay considerably more to have a better hotel.

Ripple Beach Inn is very well situated, with the beach literally across the road. There are many cafes and restaurants in the area with a wide choice of menus. Staff were always polite and helpful, though on a few occasions their understanding of English was limited. Breakfast wasnt included in the price and at the price I was paying (about$100 a night) I think it should have been.

Was a good place to stay over if you wish not to wait longer at airport for your next flight. Affordable and good location with cafe’s and restaurant. The beach is just opposite of the road. Will definitely return back.