Pristine sands backed by lush vegetation make Bentota one of the most idyllic - and refreshingly uncrowded - beach resorts in Sri Lanka. Sandwiched between Colombo and Galle on the southwest coast, it’s the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate at the end of your island adventure.
Although a series of luxury hotels haved popped up along the seafront to tempt tourists to the resort, the beaches remain relatively quiet throughout the year. There’s a noticeable lack of handicraft shops, restaurants and hawkers too, which only enhances the authentic appeal.
It goes without saying that holidays in Bentota centre around the postcard-worthy beach - a long, wide stretch of sand that extends north and becomes a picturesque peninsula known as Paradise Island. Sun-worshippers won’t struggle to find a sandy spot to flop down on, while the choppy waves of the Indian Ocean are a surfer’s dream.

Then there’s the serene waters of the Bentota Ganga and its sweeping lagoon. This is where you’ll find the main watersport action. From hair-raising banana boat rides to scenic canoe tours, there are plenty of opportunities to make a splash. The riverbanks of the Bentota Ganga are also the setting for the ancient and unexpected Galapota Temple, plus a rich variety of flora and fauna. If there was ever a place to release your inner travel photographer and start snapping, it’s here.
When it comes to food, Bentota certainly won’t disappoint. The town’s diverse dining scene ranges from high-end hotels to traditional local restaurants. And as you would expect from a Sri Lankan fishing town, seafood dominates the menus, but traditional curries and other regional dishes are readily available too.
So whether you’re looking for a hassle-free beach break or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, make sure to add Bentota to your Sri Lanka itinerary.