Bentota Beach
West Coast / Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Bentota travel guide
Bentota Beach: Golden Sands, River Safaris & Turtle Hatcheries
Bentota Beach is one of Sri Lanka’s favourite beach destinations – a long stretch of golden sand where the Bentota River meets the Indian Ocean, lined with palm trees, boutique hotels and resorts. Just two hours from Negombo, it is an easy and relaxing first or final stop on a Sri Lanka holiday.
Beyond the beach, a visit to Bentota can include a boat safari through the mangroves of the Madu River, a visit to the Kosgoda turtle hatchery, and the beautiful gardens of Brief and Lunuganga created by the Bawa brothers. Water sports are excellent on the calm river, from jet skiing to windsurfing.
Bentota at a glance
- RegionWest Coast / Southern Province, Sri Lanka
- Best time to visitNov – Apr
- From Negombo / airport~2 hrs drive
- Ideal stay2 nights
Top sightseeing
Top Things to Do at Bentota Beach
The best places to see and experiences to enjoy in Bentota, all included or easily added to our private, tailor-made itineraries.
01
Bentota Beach
Wide golden beach ideal for relaxing.
02
Madu River safari
Mangroves, cinnamon island and island temples.
03
Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
See baby turtles hatch and be released.
04
Brief Garden
Artist Bevis Bawa’s tropical garden.
05
Lunuganga
Geoffrey Bawa’s famous country estate.
06
Water sports
Jet ski, banana boat and windsurfing.
Good to know
Bentota – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Bentota?
The best time to visit Bentota is Nov – Apr. Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, so our team will advise you on the weather and seasonal highlights when planning your private holiday.
How far is Bentota from Negombo and the airport?
Bentota is about 2 hrs by road from Negombo and Bandaranaike International Airport. Your private chauffeur guide will drive you in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, with stops along the way.
How many days do I need in Bentota?
We recommend 2 nights in Bentota to enjoy the highlights at a relaxed pace, including Bentota Beach, Madu River safari and Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery.
Can NH Lanka Holidays arrange a private trip to Bentota?
Yes. We arrange private, tailor-made holidays that include Bentota with an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking chauffeur guide, handpicked hotels and airport pickup. Contact us on WhatsApp at +94 74 221 4272 or email info@nhlankatours.com for a free quote within 24 hours.
Start planning
Plan Your Visit to Bentota with Local Experts
Tell us your dates and interests and our Negombo-based team will design a private itinerary including Bentota and the best of Sri Lanka – with a free, no-obligation quote within 24 hours.