South-West Coast
Hikkaduwa
A lively beach town with a coral reef, sea turtles and a long-established surf scene.
West Coast
Bentota
Bentota is a resort area on the west coast where the Bentota River meets the sea. Its wide beach, river lagoon and gardens make it a popular choice for a comfortable beach stay close to Colombo.
Bentota at a glance
- Where
- West Coast, Sri Lanka
- Best for
- Beaches, Adventure
- Time needed
- Two to four nights, often at the start or end of a trip because of its proximity to the airport and Colombo.
- Best time
- The west coast is usually best from around November to April.
- Nearby
- Hikkaduwa, Galle Fort, Colombo, Kitulgala
- Visit with us
- Private tour with your own vehicle and driver
Why visit Bentota?
The river and lagoon are good for boat trips, jet skis and other water sports, while the beach suits long walks and lazy afternoons.
Two celebrated gardens created by the Bawa brothers, Lunuganga and Brief, bring design and history to a beach stay.
Top attractions and things to do
Bentota Beach
A long stretch of sand backed by hotels and palms.
River boat trips
Mangrove and river safaris on the Bentota River or the nearby Madu River.
Lunuganga
The country estate and garden of architect Geoffrey Bawa.
Brief Garden
The garden of landscape designer Bevis Bawa, filled with sculptures.
Turtle hatcheries
Several operate along this coast; choose one with genuine conservation practices.
About Bentota
Bentota is a beach resort area on the south-west coast where the Bentota River meets the sea. Its long golden beach, river estuary and established hotels make it a popular choice for families and couples.
It is an easy drive from Colombo and the airport, so it often features at the start or end of a trip.
Things to do
Take a boat trip up the Bentota River through mangroves to see monitor lizards, kingfishers and riverside villages. The river and lagoon are good for water sports such as jet-skiing, windsurfing and banana boats.
Architecture fans should visit Lunuganga, the garden estate of the architect Geoffrey Bawa, and the Brief Garden of his brother Bevis Bawa, both inland from Bentota.
Turtle hatcheries
There are several turtle hatcheries along this coast, near Kosgoda. Standards vary. Choose places that release hatchlings promptly and do not keep turtles in small tanks for show. Ask us which ones we recommend.
Where to stay
Bentota and neighbouring Induruwa and Beruwala have a wide range of beach hotels, from large resorts to boutique villas on the river. The beach season is roughly December to April.
Planning your visit
- Suggested time
- Two to four nights, often at the start or end of a trip because of its proximity to the airport and Colombo. (Guidance only.)
- Best time to visit
- The west coast is usually best from around November to April. Rougher seas and more rain are likely from roughly May to September.
- Getting there
- Bentota is on the coastal road and railway line south of Colombo, and is also reached via the Southern Expressway.
Check current details before travelling: prices, opening hours, access and seasonal conditions change.
Visitor tips
- Check flags and local advice before swimming.
- Ask whether turtle hatcheries release hatchlings promptly and avoid places that keep turtles in small tanks.
- Book Lunuganga visits in advance where required.
Experiences around Bentota
Plan with our guides
Bentota: frequently asked questions
Is Bentota good for families?
Yes. Resort hotels, river trips and calm-season beaches make it a family favourite.
When is the best time for Bentota?
Usually from around November to April, when the west coast is drier and the sea is calmer.
What water sports are available?
Jet skiing, banana boats, windsurfing and river trips are commonly offered by local operators.
How do I get to Bentota?
Bentota is on the coastal road and railway line south of Colombo, and is also reached via the Southern Expressway.
How much time do I need at Bentota?
Two to four nights, often at the start or end of a trip because of its proximity to the airport and Colombo. This is guidance only; we can adjust it to your pace.
Can you include Bentota in a private tour?
Yes. We can add Bentota to a private route planned around your dates, and drive you there in our own vehicle. Tell us what else you'd like to see and we'll suggest how it fits.
Nearby destinations
South Coast
Galle Fort
Walled colonial streets, a white lighthouse and ocean-facing ramparts made for sunset walks.
West Coast
Colombo
Sri Lanka's busy commercial capital of temples, markets, museums and a seafront promenade.
Hill Country Edge
Kitulgala
Rainforest and river rapids on the road to the hill country, Sri Lanka's rafting base.
Plan a trip that includes Bentota
Tell us when you'd like to travel and what you love, and we'll suggest a route that fits. There's no obligation.