Bentota
Located just 65km south of Colombo, Bentota is Sri Lanka’s waters sports capital. The Bentara river falls into the Indian Ocean here, and the perfectly still waters of the river and lagoon are ideal for a number of activities including wake boarding, paddle-boarding, water skiing and jet skiing. The sea itself is well suited for body-surfing, swimming, snorkeling and even scuba diving in the unusually warm waters off Bentota Bay.
PADI-certified diving instructors are available at the beach throughout the season. Canoe Rock near the Bay is a popular spot for divers looking to explore the coral reefs in this area. Bentota is also great for night diving for the more adventurous among you.
Boat rides are available to explore both the lagoon and the mangroves of the Bentara River. Bentota’s wide, golden sandy beach is fringed with 4-5 star hotels run by some of the bigger local hotel chains, as well as smaller boutique properties.