Bentota
A popular west coast beach resort area with golden sand, river safaris, water sports and Ayurveda spas.
Get a Quote for BentotaAbout Bentota
Bentota is a well-known beach resort area on the west coast, with a long golden beach and the Bentota River nearby. Visitors enjoy water sports like jet skiing and banana boats, river safaris through the mangroves, and Ayurveda treatments at local spas. The area also has turtle hatcheries and temples nearby, and it is a good place to relax at the start or end of a trip.
Highlights
- ✅ Golden sandy beach
- ✅ Bentota River boat safari
- ✅ Water sports
- ✅ Ayurveda spa treatments
- ✅ Turtle hatcheries nearby
Travel Tips
- Visit in the dry season, as the sea can be rough from May to September
- Choose turtle hatcheries that run proper conservation programmes
- Book river safaris with licensed operators
- Combine with Galle Fort on a short south and west coast trip
More places to visit
Sinharaja Rain Forest
A UNESCO World Heritage rainforest and one of Sri Lanka's last primary forests. Walk with a local guide to spot rare birds, colourful frogs and endemic wildlife. It is very close to Ratnapura.
Pilgrimage & HikingAdam's Peak (Sri Pada)
A sacred mountain for several religions, famous for its night climb and sunrise from the summit. The pilgrim season runs roughly from December to May.
WildlifeUdawalawe National Park
One of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants up close. Jeep safaris are easy to arrange and the open landscape makes sightings very likely.