Bentota is a dreamy coastal town where life moves at a slower pace, and the days are best spent by the water. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind on soft sandy beaches, take a dip in warm, gentle waves, or go for a slow cruise along the river at sunset.
Check out the Iduruwa Turtle Hatchery
Watching baby turtles take their first swim is something you won’t forget anytime soon. A visit to the Iduruwa Turtle Hatchery is a simple but magical experience—quietly heartwarming and full of wonder. The place is all about helping sea turtles survive, with staff keeping an eye on the beaches at night to protect the eggs laid by mother turtles.
Embark on a Madu River Safari
This river safari is a laid-back way to soak in the natural side of Sri Lanka. Drifting through mangroves on a quiet motorboat, you’ll pass still waters, tangled roots, and glimpses of life along the riverbanks. The area is one of the last untouched stretches of mangrove forest, and along the way, you’ll spot things like prawn farms and age-old fishing methods still in use. It’s slow, scenic, and surprisingly calming.
Enjoy the Bentota Sunset
Sri Lanka’s sunsets are something else—bold, beautiful, and totally unfiltered. Picture skies bursting with fiery oranges and soft purples, melting into golden sand and a shimmering sea. It’s the kind of view that doesn’t need a filter. Luckily, almost any hotel in Bentota, like the excellent NH Bentota Ceysands Resort, is within a stone’s throw to beaches for its guests to see.
Take a detour to Galle City
Spend at least a day soaking up the colourful vibe of Galle. Wander through the old fort and get a feel for its colonial charm—or skip the history and head straight for the sea. If you’re around between November and April, don’t miss the chance to go whale watching.