6.0535° N, 80.2210° E
Galle
A fortified Dutch colonial old town on the southern coast.
Explore Destination →6.4260° N, 79.9958° E
Bentota
Western/Southern coast — river, lagoon and resort beaches
Best Time to Visit
December to April
Suggested Stay
1–2 nights
Distance
Around 90 minutes / 65km south of Colombo
Coordinates
6.4260° N, 79.9958° E
Overview
About Bentota
Bentota sits where the Bentota River meets the sea, which makes it the island's natural water-sports hub: jet skiing and windsurfing on the ocean side, quiet mangrove-lined river safaris on the other. It's a popular first or last resort stop for travellers who want beach time without going all the way to the south coast, with a turtle hatchery, a cinnamon island and Geoffrey Bawa's country estate all within easy reach.
Don't Miss
Highlights in Bentota
Water sports on Bentota Beach
Jet skiing, windsurfing and banana boats — best December to April.
Bentota River safari
A boat trip through mangroves, spotting birds, water monitors and the odd crocodile.
Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
A short drive down the coast — a conservation project working with five turtle species.
Brief Garden
Architect Bevis Bawa's five-acre garden estate, a quieter alternative to the beach.
Getting There
How to Reach Bentota
A straightforward drive down the Southern Expressway, or the coastal train — both under two hours from Colombo.
Pair It With
Nearby Destinations
6.9271° N, 79.8612° E
Colombo
The island's coastal capital — colonial streets, rooftop bars and a working harbour.
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