Located on the south western coast of the Island the beaches at Bentota are a stretch of amber sand that contrasts against the intense blue of the sea. Among most popular dive sites in Bentota such as Canoe Rock, South Reef and Hundirangala, the Canoe Rock dive is 20 meters in depth and has a rock formation with a lobster valley. The cave in the lobster valley, on the right of the canoe passage, is bound to have a lobster waiting. On a sunny day and in clear weather schools of snapper, fusiliers, moral eels and porcupine fish are a common sight at the dive. The Canoe Rock is also known for its beautiful corals and interesting marine life.
South Reef is another diving location in Bentota and is a somewhat physical extension of the Canoe Rock dive. The 18 meter deep excursion comprises of exploring an outer complex of rock boulders with interesting deep-sea reef fish varieties. The most exciting aspect of this dive is the encounters with Nudibrachs, a type of a beautifully coloured marine life.
The Hundirangala dive just off the coast, is the preferred diving location by many due to its close proximity to the shore. The 8 to 12 meter deep dive site is where the first midnight dive in Sri Lanka took place. Apart from the exciting diving adventures the Bentota seas also offer a host of alternate marine sports including windsurfing, surfing, kite surfing, waterskiing, snorkelling and scuba diving.
The adjoining lagoon and river also provide a range of fun activities. Among them are, canoeing, jet skiing, body surfing, parasailing and romantic river safaris on the lagoon. The boat trips take you on a ride along the green river letting you explore its waterways. Species of reptiles and birds are found on the riverbanks. Being popular tourist hotspots, the beaches of Bentota are clean and beautiful.
Coconut palms dot the landscape while the sea bobs small fishing boats on its continuous waves. The early dawn of the morning finds vendors selling local handcrafts. The beaches of Ahungalle and Induruwagala are considered the best in Bentota. The sleeping Buddha complex and the turtle hatchery are also considered must-sees.
The blue green seas and white sandy shores make Bentota the perfect holiday getaway. The diving season being from December till April, this sun city attracts many tourists and vacationers during its peak. Many of the Bentota hotels including Avani Bentota Resort provide star class services and facilities making their guests feel welcomed and pampered. You can easily find a hotel in Bentota close to the key dive sights and enjoy the sand, sun and sea of Sri Lanka.