Bentota

Bentota, is a well known tourist attraction in Sri Lanka, situated on the southern tip of the Galle District of the Southern Province, approximately 7 - 8 km (4.3 – 5.0 mi) south of Beruwala on the A2 highway.

Bentota, is a well known  tourist attraction in Sri Lanka, situated on the southern tip of the Galle District of the Southern Province, approximately 7 - 8 km (4.3 – 5.0 mi) south of Beruwala on the A2 highway. Its population is estimated between 25,000 - 50,000. The name Bentota comes from a mythical story which dates back to the time of the ancient kings when it was believed a demon called Bem ruled this river.

It has a local airport (Bentota River Airport) and some world-class hotels. It is a renowned destination for watersports. Bentota is also prominent for the ancient art of healing called Ayurveda. It is very famous for its toddy, an alcoholic beverage made out of coconut nectar.

While the South Coast of Sri Lanka is home to many beaches, some of them stand out from the rest, such as Bentota Beach. If you really want to enjoy all that this picturesque shoreline has to offer, look to stay at a Bentota hotel or resort by the sea.

Tourists Attractions in Bentota

  • Sandy Beach

While the South Coast of Sri Lanka is home to many beaches, some of them stand out amongst the rest, such as Bentota Beach. If you really want to enjoy all that this picturesque shoreline has to offer, look to stay at a Bentota hotel or resort by the sea.

The sundrenched sands of Bentota Beach are quite popular amongst locals and foreigners alike, as it provides a perfect slice of paradise. What makes this area even more of an attraction is the fact that it also has a wide range of water sports on offer giving you the chance to experience fun in the sun and the surf. Sailing, water-skiing, wind surfing and snorkeling can be tried out when here and give young and old alike a chance to kick back and experience the freedom of the waves. A great spot for beach weddings too, Bentota Beach is an ideal place from which to head out on deep-sea fishing tours and diving excursions to such well-known sites as Canoe Rock.

  • Boat Safari

Explore the uncharted mangroves that are placed along the Bentota River on a Boat Safari. The safaris start at the final part of the broad Bentota River, close upon the Bentota Bridge and cruises inland. The boat men will meander through the islets and mangrove swamps located haphazardly on the river. They would delve into the mangroves and sail amid the tangled roots under the shelter of shade provided by the trees and vines entangling each other. Get lost amid these thick growths and spot aquatic birds such as herons, kingfishers, cormorants as well as the monitors and crocodiles that wade through the water.

  • Water Sports

Bentota is the water sports capital of Sri Lanka. Luxury hotels such as Club Bentota are especially dedicated to provide exclusive water sports facilities for surfers and jet skiers alike. Most hotels are equipped with jet skis, water skis, surf boards, speed boats and much more. Whether you want to enjoy yourself with your friends on a banana boat or experience an adrenalin rush on a speed boat, Bentota is the place to be. Some hotels provide professional trainers that can be scheduled for beginners.

Bentota on map

Sri Lanka Tourism Activities around Bentota