Image Credit: AVANI Bentota Resort & Spa

When it comes to water sports in Sri Lanka, the south coast town of Bentota is easily one of the best spots on the island. While this enchanting seaside getaway does offer plenty of thrills in the surf, there is much more to do here and captivating places to visit that can be enjoyed while staying at a hotel or resort Bentota has to offer.

It goes without saying that top on the list is the Bentota Beach itself. It offers a wonderful stretch of palm-fringed shore where you can just sit back, soak up the sun and ocean breezes and watch the world go slowly by. If you are looking to experience some local culture as well, then plan a visit to the Kande Vihare Temple. Within a 15 minute drive from accommodation options like AVANI Bentota Resort & Spa, this well-known Buddhist temple features a huge Buddha Statue which one will come across while exploring the sacred grounds. Home to four Maha Devalas, an age-old Bo tree, Image House and Relic Chamber, the temple offers a fascinating insight into the island’s rich Buddhist heritage.

For something different, plan a visit to the Turtle Hatchery Project run by the Sea Turtle Protection Association in Bentota. Turtles are known to nest along the south coast shores and hatcheries such as this one look to conserve turtle eggs within their safe confines; once hatched, the baby turtles are released and can make their way under watchful eyes, to the ocean beyond. Here, one can learn more about turtles, see baby hatchlings and even volunteer.

Continue your adventures with a trip to Cinnamon Island; this small island has a cinnamon plantation that is run by a family. Visitors have the chance to see just how cinnamon is cultivated and the intricate process of harvesting, peeling and creating oil from this most fragrant of spice. Also look to head to the Brief Garden which is within easy reach of Bentota. Designed and expertly landscaped by Bevis Bawa (brother of renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa), this enchanting and picturesque escape features Japanese-style gardens and intriguing sculptures that add to its unique atmosphere.

End your day back at Bentota Beach, in time to catch a glorious sunset that gives the landscape an amazing “makeover” coloured in fiery crimson and gold.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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