Camelot's stone facade fronted by a fountain feature and row of flags may give off an upscale vibe, but dated interiors will likely be a letdown. The black-tiled lobby has a few metal benches with patterned cushions, rainbow-colored polyptych artwork, and one tiny elevator. An adjacent seating area has orange striped banquettes under framed photos of Sri Lanka, though most guests spend their time in the much more appealing areas outdoors. The open-air, well-reviewed restaurant sits next to the two pretty outdoor pools and bar, which are surrounded by green swaths of lawn, wooden loungers, and tables -- all with views of the water. A brick pathway leads guests past palm trees to the wide stretch of golden-sand beach. Unfortunately, the water can be too rough for swimming at times and passing local vendors can be a nuisance -- though this is common throughout the area.

The three-pearl hotel's affordable rates and convenient proximity to the airport bring in lots of short-term travelers that have just arrived or about to leave the country. 

The Camelot Beach Hotel is well-positioned for travelers that have either just arrived or are about to depart Sri Lanka, as the Bandaranaike International Airport is a 20-minute drive away. It sits along a wide stretch of golden sand in the laid-back beach town of Negombo. There are ample hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops within a short walk of the hotel. Tuk-tuks are the cheapest and most common form of transportation in Negombo and can be easily hailed just outside the property. Free parking is available for those with cars.

The Camelot has 85 rooms that have either dated, worn furnishings, or a more contemporary design with an attractive earth-tone color scheme. The Standard Rooms are the former, featuring white-and-black tiling, motel-style patterned comforters, patterned curtains, a mix of dark and white wooden furniture, and lamps with bright-red shades. The Deluxe Rooms and above have more modern dark wooden furniture, orange-and-tan-striped bed runners that match wall hangings over the beds, and tan tile floors. They're not exactly inspiring, but worth the upgrade. However, guests have complained about uncomfortable beds across room categories.

Views vary of either the pool, city, or ocean, and all units except for the Deluxe Rooms have balconies or patios. All units are equipped with air-conditioning, ceiling fans, tea- and coffee-making facilities, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, in-room safes, and free bottled water. Bathrooms are small and have walk-in showers with soap and shower caps, but no shampoo or conditioner. Suites add sitting areas, bathtubs, mini-fridges, and hairdryers. Note that some rooms have little insulation from outside noise. 

Camelot sits along a wide stretch of golden-sand beach, however it's open to the public and vendors can be a bit of a nuisance. Additionally, during certain times the water may be too rough for swimming -- guests are alerted of the water's safety by a yellow or red flag at the beach entrance. Travelers can always swim in one of the two outdoor pools, which are easily the most attractive part of the property. One sits next to the restaurant and is surrounded by loungers, funky daybeds, and modern black wicker tables and chairs. The larger pool sits next to the water for amazing views, and it has a separate kiddy pool. Ample wooden loungers are spread among the surrounding decks and grass, though not all are cushioned.

Between the two pools is the Excalibur Bar, which is open from morning until late. For dining, the poolside Sangreal Restaurant serves buffet-style meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a large space with two-tone wooden tables and chairs. The food receives good reviews and the buffet breakfast (included in many rates) is substantial, featuring Sri Lankan and international dishes. Occasionally, there's live music here at night. 

The property lacks a gym, but it does have a small spa offering a variety of Ayurvedic massage treatments. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and there are two meeting and event spaces available.