In the Area
The experiences offered at Bentota are a good mix of enjoyable and educative activities that will leave you with lasting memories. It has it all ranging from Culture, Nature, Adventure, Relaxation, Conservation, Water Sports, River Safaris and even a glimpse of the island’s rich colonial past. There’s so much to do it’s going to be difficult to decide.
Bentota Beach
Miles of endless Golden beaches, turquoise blue waters, colourful fishing boats and tall palm trees adorn the coastline of Bentota. Considered as one of the most popular beaches in the southern coastal belt it is most popularly known for its vast selection of water sports that promise beach enthusiasts an outstanding experience. Bentota is best visited between October and April.
Turtle Experience
The sensation of holding a baby turtle in your hands is unexplainable. Sri Lanka is known to have five of the seven species of sea turtle, which come ashore to lay their eggs. This endangered species is taken care of in the turtle hatcheries situated along the southern coast, before they are set free to the ocean. This emotional moment is an experience you will remember for a long time to come.
Buddhist Temples
There are many remarkable Buddhist Temples in the area. If your visit is early morning or late evening then you will hear the peeling of Temple Bells followed by chanting. Sightsee the wall paintings, the many Buddha statues, amazing rock carvings, frescoes and listen to the tales of a by gone era.
Visit the village & traditional market
Another side of beautiful Bentota is its lush green rural interiors. Being situated on the border of the famous Sinharaja Rain Forest provides it with the perfect climate and environment for various agricultural practices. Traverse through coconut plantations, stop to watch the rice fields as it is being worked on, observe the birds in the shrub jungle, visit a Buddhist temple on the way before visiting a village home to experience real rural hospitality. Visit the traditional market where fresh village produce is sold. Learn about the local vegies, fruits, spices and herbs and buy some for yourself too.
Bentota River Safari
Row your way to a natural paradise. Leisurely explore, experience and enjoy the mangrove lagoon while observing the waterside plants, aquatic birds, water monitor and other small creatures. You can take plenty of photos of the lovely green canopies, the small mammals, and the magnificent birds, especially one with the baby croc!
River & Deep Sea Fishing
A very enjoyable pastime that can be physically and emotionally rewarding. The Indian Ocean is a rich source of deep-sea fish with its wide range of game fish such as Jackfish, Barracuda, small shark, tuna and others. There are many spots both ocean and inland dedicated for this activity. Catch a fish and take it back with you to be prepared for lunch!
Galle Fort
An UNESCO World Heritage Site and an amazing centuries old monument that is well worth a visit. The Portuguese first erected the fort in 1588, later besieged by the Dutch who renovated it extensively before the British finally captured it. The Dutch Fort in Galle is perfectly maintained to date and is known to be the best-preserved fortified city in Asia. Some of the monuments housed here include the Dutch Reformed Church, Old Dutch Government House, National Maritime Museum, Old Dutch Hospital, the Clock Tower & Galle Lighthouse, the beautiful ramparts and more.
Whale Watching
Let's head for the ocean to watch the largest creatures on Earth! Dondra Point Mirissa is famed for some of the finest whale watching opportunities. You can see Blue Whales; the largest creatures on earth, Bryde’s Whales, Sperm Whales, Killer Whales and Fin Whales in addition to Dolphins and Turtles.
Diving & Snorkeling in Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa has always been the darling of scuba divers, snorkelers and even sightseers because of it beautiful beaches, reefs, shipwrecks and underwater wonders. It is also the most developed surfing destination in the south of Sri Lanka and is well known for its popular local break points ideal for surfing and scuba diving.
Surfing in Hikkaduwa
For the surfing enthusiasts Hikkaduwa is a dream destination to engage in, some real surfing and even scuba diving. Surf the waves as never before; explore the underwater world as well!