Sri Lanka Country Guide
Everything you could possibly want, on one sunny, mango-shaped isle
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4.9/5 (992 reviews)

In an island of idyllic, palm-fringed beaches, it's the Bentota area, between Colombo and Galle on the south-west coast, that’s home to just about the very best. Bentota town itself is pretty enough (and a great place to shop, slurp smoothies and people-watch), but it’s a few steps further to the south where the magic really happens. First up are beaches ripe for waterskiing, windsurfing and even horse-riding, alongside exquisite Geoffrey Bawa-designed hotels. Then, head towards sleepy Balapitiya and discover a jungled landscape strewn with wetlands and mangrove forests ripe for boating, as well as inland Buddhist temples that are well worth an exploration. This southern section is also home to world-famous turtle hatcheries where you can play your part in conservation and release baby turtles into the wild. Struggling to choose a spot? Rest assured that wherever you end up, the south coast is a lesson in in forget-about-everything relaxation...
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Dry Season — one of the best times to visit
Dry Season — one of the best times to visit
Dry Season — one of the best times to visit
Wet Season — a good time to visit
Wet Season — a quieter time to visit
Wet Season — a quieter time to visit
Wet Season — a quieter time to visit
Wet Season — a quieter time to visit
Wet Season — a quieter time to visit
Wet Season — a good time to visit
Wet Season — a good time to visit
Dry Season — one of the best times to visit
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