Lounging on The Sri Lankan

Beach: Taj Bentota Resort and Spa

Golden, sandy beaches, the radiant tropical sun, palm trees, and pristine blue waters. What more do you need for a fun and relaxing vacation? Located along the south coast of Sri Lanka, Bentota is a laid-back and tranquil destination perfect for a beach holiday. This seaside town is reminiscent of the Dutch and Portuguese cities, due to its distinctive architectural styles and ambience.

This quaint little beach town has become a famous vacation spot for tourists since there’s something here for everyone. From water sports to incredible greenspaces, from splendid marine life to mouth-watering cuisines, Bentota is a perfect destination for tourists looking to unwind and rejuvenate themselves.

Located less than 2 hours from the capital city of Colombo, Bentota serves as the best vacation spot for those looking to avoid the crowds. This coastal town is an ideal getaway from the chaotic city and has so much to offer its visitors. You get to experience the complete package of what Bentota is with Taj Hotels.

At Taj Bentota Resort & Spa, you get to awaken to the sweet sound of the waves crashing at the beach. Set along the southwestern coast, you get to soak in the Sri Lankan sun and refresh your soul. The hotel also offers various fun and adventurous experiences at Bentota, so you can make the most out of your Sri Lankan holiday.

One of the must-visit places in Bentota is the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Project. The centre is a prime nesting site for endangered turtle species. A haven for sea turtles and tortoises, the hatchery aims to protect and rehabilitate these marine mammals with the utmost care and love. You can catch a glimpse of the Green Turtle, the Hawksbill Turtle, Loggerheads, Olive Ridley, and Leatherback turtles. And if you’re lucky enough, you might even get to witness the baby turtles hatching from the eggs and waddling back into the ocean.

Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, the Galle Dutch Fort is one of the most formidable forts in Sri Lanka that’s left unscathed by the many tsunamis hitting the coastline. A picturesque location and majestic structure, the Galle Dutch Fort is one of the prime examples of the Dutch-Portuguese influences in Sri Lanka. Explore the sunlit colonial pathways, the grand stone mansions, the many churches and mosques, and the quaint little cafes surrounding the areas of the fort.

Make sure to take a scenic drive down to the Galle Port, especially, if you’re visiting between October and March. That’s when herds of whales and dolphins visit the seashores of south Sri Lanka. Witnessing these majestic creatures so up and close will certainly make for an experience of a lifetime, so don’t miss out!

Drift along the serene waters of the Madu Ganga River, which is lined with thick green mangrove forests of the Bentota Mangroves. Embark on a river cruise along the river, making halts by cinnamon plantations and the small islands dotting the river. Observe the traditional lifestyle of the inhabitants and even learn how cinnamon is produced by the locals.

Navigate through the meandering waterways, covered by the dense canopy, and catch a glimpse of doctor fishes and a crocodile or two! You can even enjoy bird watching since the river banks are great spots for various species of birds to lounge and quench their thirst.

If you’re looking for a lazy and relaxing afternoon immersed in nature, then the Brief Garden is the place to be. This enchanting garden space is designed by the renowned Sri Lankan architectural artist Bevis Bava. The artist has splendidly blended art and nature to create a serene fantasy landscape. Stretching across 5 acres of land, the garden showcases pathways decorated by jungle flowers, swaying tropical trees, magnificent sculptures and structures, and pristine water bodies. It will certainly transport you to a completely different world, away from the hustle and bustle of life.

A beachside vacation demands some water sports adventures. A paradise for water sports, Bentota is a great place to go windsurfing, kayaking, jet skiing, kiteboarding, and more. Cruise along the waves and feel the spray of the ocean, as you go windsurfing on the Bentota River or the beach. Go scuba diving and explore the beautiful marine ecosystems of the Indian Ocean at Canoe Rock, South Roof, and Hundirangala. Make the most of your Sri Lankan holiday with some fun water sports added to the mix.

If you’re in Bentota, then it is a must-get to experience this quaint town up close and personal. From escaping into the idyllic paddy fields to cycling across the beautiful Portuguese-Dutch corridors, the village has a lot to offer its visitors. You can shop at the vibrant markets or simply observe the local culture.

Take a tuk-tuk across the Bentota village and enjoy its laid-back charm and way of life. Go shopping at the local handicrafts stores or pick up some of the legendary Sri Lankan tea. All this is made possible at Taj Bentota in a two-hour tuk-tuk tour across Bentota town!

What better way to end your day than a stroll on Bentota Beach. The beige sandy shores, swaying coconut trees, and picturesque landscape make Bentota Beach a great place to unwind and relax. If you’re planning to sunbathe or go for a swim, this beach is the perfect place. But nothing beats the stunning sunsets that Bentota Beach sees. As the sun hits the horizon, the sky shifts colours from golden yellow to orangish-red, to pink and purple. It surely makes for a mesmerising scene and one that will forever be etched in your memories!

Bentota has so much to offer, from fun adventure activities to unique tourist experiences. Whether you want to watch the sea turtles, cruise along the Madu River, or explore Bentota on a tuk-tuk tour, experience the best of this beach town at Taj Bentota Resort and Spa. With beautiful lounging spaces, stunning surroundings, and amazing experiences all planned for you, make the most of your Sri Lankan vacation with Taj Hotels.