Bentota is one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated beach destinations, set at the mouth of the Bentota River along the golden southwest coast. The wide, palm-lined beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while the calm river lagoon offers some of the island’s finest water sports, from jet-skiing and windsurfing to mangrove boat safaris. The town also has a long tradition of Ayurvedic spa retreats, making it equally popular with wellness travellers.