Bentota Beach

Bentota is one of the best-known beach resorts on Sri Lanka’s south-west coast, where a long, palm-fringed strand of golden sand meets the Indian Ocean beside the mouth of the Bentota River. It is around two hours’ drive south of Colombo, which makes it an easy last stop before your flight home.

The calm waters of the river lagoon are the centre for water sports such as jet skiing, banana boats and windsurfing. A boat safari along the nearby Madu Ganga winds through mangroves to small islands with temples and a cinnamon-peeling demonstration, and turtle hatcheries along the coast welcome visitors.

The sea is best for swimming from December to April; outside those months the waves can be strong, so follow the lifeguards’ flags. Many resorts here offer Ayurvedic treatments, a relaxing way to end a busy itinerary.