Bentota

Bentota Beach, located in the southwest of Sri Lanka, is a popular tourist destination known for its golden sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying various water sports like jet skiing and windsurfing. The beach is also surrounded by lush greenery, making it a picturesque location for photography.

Brief Garden is a landscape garden and former home in Beruwala, Sri Lanka designed by landscape architect and owner Bevis Bawa. It is home to the landscape design practice, Brief Garden Designs. In 1929 Bawa was bequeathed the family rubber plantation by his mother, Bertha Marianne née Schrader.

Lunuganga Estate in Bentota is the former country home of renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, transformed over decades into a breathtaking garden retreat. Blending tropical beauty with European-inspired design, the estate features serene lakeside views, lush landscapes, and artfully arranged structures that reflect Bawa’s unique architectural vision. Today, it operates as a boutique hotel and public garden, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the harmonious fusion of nature, art, and design that defines Bawa’s legacy.

The Sea Turtle Protection Association in Bentota is a dedicated conservation center committed to safeguarding Sri Lanka’s endangered sea turtles. Visitors can engage in a one-hour guided tour, observing five native turtle species, including the green and hawksbill turtles, and learning about their life cycles and the threats they face. The center operates daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering an educational and interactive experience for all ages . Located at 390 Galle Road, Bentota, the association provides a unique opportunity to witness conservation efforts firsthand and contribute to the protection of these majestic marine creatures.

The Madu Ganga River Safari in Balapitiya, near Bentota, is a serene and scenic boat ride through one of Sri Lanka’s most biodiverse wetland ecosystems. Winding through lush mangrove forests and dotted with small islands, the safari offers close-up encounters with local wildlife, traditional cinnamon cultivation on Cinnamon Island, and visits to cultural sites like the Kothduwa Temple. It’s a peaceful yet enriching experience that blends nature, culture, and adventure, making it a must-do activity for visitors to the southern coast.