{"id":3317,"date":"2019-06-27T13:22:13","date_gmt":"2019-06-27T13:22:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/?page_id=3317"},"modified":"2019-06-27T13:22:13","modified_gmt":"2019-06-27T13:22:13","slug":"bentota","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/bali\/where-to-stay\/bentota\/","title":{"rendered":"Bentota Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2>Bentota Guide<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The southwestern resort town of Bentota is a popular stop for many travellers in Sri Lanka. The area is renowned for its stunning beaches and a variety of activities; in fact, many people choose to spend their whole holiday here! From cultural excursions to bicycle trips through the countryside, there\u2019s plenty to do here besides bliss out on the beach. <\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_3682\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-3682\" style=\"width: 1000px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_698721067.jpg\" alt=\"guide to visiting Bentota in 2019\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_698721067.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_698721067-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_698721067-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-3682\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">What are the highlights of a trip to Bentota?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<table class=\"info-table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Price<\/th>\n<th>Good for<\/th>\n<th>Airport<\/th>\n<th>Kids<\/th>\n<th>Culture<\/th>\n<th>Beaches<\/th>\n<th>Dining<\/th>\n<th>Nightlife<\/th>\n<th>Surf<\/th>\n<th>Safari<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"color: #7cda24;\">$$<\/span><\/td>\n<td>Watersports, beaches, wildlife, culture<\/td>\n<td>66 miles<\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #e09900;\">* *\u00a0 *\u00a0*<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #e09900;\">*\u00a0*<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #e09900;\">*\u00a0***<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #e09900;\">** *\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #e09900;\">*\u00a0*\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #e09900;\">** *<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"color: #e09900;\">***<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2>What is Bentota best known for?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of Bentota\u2019s key attractions is the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Center, which is located just a few kilometres outside of town. If nature is your thing, you\u2019ll find plenty more to do! The surrounding countryside is stunning and diverse, with rice paddies, rubber plantations and fishing villages to explore. Aside from this, there is, of course, Bentota\u2019s stunningly spotless beach. If you want to soak up a little of the local culture, you won\u2019t be disappointed on this front, either. Bentota is home to a few sites of significant cultural and historic interest, so you can satisfy your cultural side, too.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Who should visit Bentota?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bentota is popular among a range of travellers, as there is so much to experience in the area. Bentota is especially good for:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-admin\/post.php?post=2296&amp;action=edit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Romantic couples<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-admin\/post.php?post=3658&amp;action=edit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Families<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Groups<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nature lovers<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-admin\/post.php?post=1862&amp;action=edit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Surfers<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"><\/div>\n<figure id=\"attachment_3681\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-3681\" style=\"width: 1000px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3681\" src=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_617406536.jpg\" alt=\"Bentota with kids\" width=\"1000\" height=\"665\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_617406536.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_617406536-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_617406536-768x511.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-3681\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bentota is a great place to travel with children.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>When is the best time to visit Bentota?<\/h2>\n<h5>For the best weather<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bentota stays warm throughout the year, with temperatures hovering between 26 and 28 C (79 &#8211; 82 F). However, the area does see quite a lot of rainfall during certain months of the year. To get the best of the beach and blue skies throughout your stay, visit in <\/span><b>December, January, February, March, July <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">or <\/span><b>August.<\/b><\/p>\n<h5>To beat the crowds<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bentota\u2019s \u2018high season\u2019 months are July, August, December and January, when many people come away on vacation. If you want sunshine but not hoards of people, the best months to arrive are <\/span><b>February <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and <\/span><b>March.<\/b><\/p>\n<h2>Things to see and do in Bentota<\/h2>\n<h5>Check out the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Center<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure you check out some of Kosgoda\u2019s cutest inhabitants while you\u2019re in Bentota. <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.srilankaseaturtles.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Center<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can be found just the road from Bentota, making this spot ideal for a day trip!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The work done at the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Center is geared towards creating a more sustainable habitat for the turtles while caring for injured and newly hatched turtles. Kosgoda Conservation Center is home to many different species of turtle, so you can learn about the life cycles and conservation of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">green turtles, loggerheads, hawksbills, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">olive<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ridleys<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and leatherbacks during your visit.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This fascinating educational experience is a great idea for families travelling with children, who will love seeing and learning about these incredible creatures!<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_3680\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-3680\" style=\"width: 1000px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3680\" src=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_1018660432.jpg\" alt=\"turtles in bentota\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_1018660432.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_1018660432-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_1018660432-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-3680\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Visit the sea turtles at the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Center.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h5>Learn more about Cinnamon Island<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sri Lanka is the world\u2019s largest producer of cinnamon, with the country contributing <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.srilankabusiness.com\/spices\/pure-ceylon-cinnamon.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">up to 90% of the global supply<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. To learn more about the growth, production and oil extraction of this popular spice, check out Cinnamon Island while you\u2019re in town!<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_3679\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-3679\" style=\"width: 1000px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3679\" src=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_548189251.jpg\" alt=\"Travel along the Madu River to reach Cinnamon Island.\" width=\"1000\" height=\"644\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_548189251.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_548189251-300x193.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_548189251-768x495.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-3679\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Travel along the Madu River to reach Cinnamon Island.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take a scenic boat ride along the gorgeous Madu River to reach the island, where the knowledgeable staff can tell you everything. From the medicinal benefits of the spice to its use in Sri Lankan cuisine, you can find out everything there is to know! Once you&#8217;ve educated yourself on all things cinnamon, you can buy some fresh sticks to take home from your trip.<\/span><\/p>\n<h5>Soak up some calm at Kande Vihare Temple<\/h5>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kande_Vihara\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kande Vihara<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (the \u2018Mountain Temple\u2019) is so named for its location. Built atop a hill near to Aluthgama town, this sacred site is easily reachable from Bentota, so it\u2019s a popular side-trip for tourists in the area. The best time of day to visit is in the early morning or around sunset when the cool temperatures and soft, golden light create an atmosphere of unbeatable tranquillity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The main attraction at Kande Vihare is the Samadhi Buddha statue. The newly-unveiled statue stands an incredible 48 m high, making it the largest seated Buddha in the world &#8211; a must-see if you\u2019re in the area! Other attractions around the temple include the intricately decorated image house, a stupa and an ancient Bodhi tree believed to be over 300 years old. Arrive early for the coolest temperatures, smallest crowds and most peaceful atmosphere!<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_3678\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-3678\" style=\"width: 1000px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3678\" src=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_780906034-1.jpg\" alt=\"Kande Vihara is home to the largest seated Buddha statue in the world.\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_780906034-1.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_780906034-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_780906034-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-3678\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Kande Vihara is home to the largest seated Buddha statue in the world.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h5>Go surfing at Bentota Beach<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bentota Beach is famed for its spotless sands and crystal waves and is a big draw for travellers in the area. If you\u2019re staying in Bentota, chances are you\u2019ll spend plenty of lazy days enjoying the beauty of the beach. If you want to take your beach time up a gear, however, why not take a few surfing lessons while you\u2019re here?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The small waves, gentle current and sandy bottom create ideal conditions for beginner surfers. If you\u2019ve never been on a board before, this is the perfect opportunity! There are a few places offering lessons and board hire along the beach, so why not give it a go?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/8Sl4dhPlEaY\" width=\"760\" height=\"515\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h5>Take a cycling trip through the beautiful Bentota countryside<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explore the countryside and villages around Bentota with a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.viator.com\/tours\/Bentota\/Cycling-Day-Tour-in-Bentota\/d24419-8021P14\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cycling tour<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> during your stay in town. The scenery around the town is diverse and stunning, ranging from rolling green rice fields to rubber plantations. Dotted among the various natural attractions are traditional villages, where you can get a true flavour of local life.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learn more about the daily lives and culture of the fishermen and farmers in the area. This is a fascinating educational experience with a big dose of beauty, and a top day out if you\u2019re travelling as a family or group!<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_3677\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-3677\" style=\"width: 1000px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3677\" src=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_711837385.jpg\" alt=\"Take cycling trip through the countryside around Bentota.\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_711837385.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_711837385-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_711837385-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-3677\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Take cycling trip through the countryside around Bentota.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Off the beaten path\u2026<\/h2>\n<h5>Brief Garden<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get off the beaten path in Bentota with a trip to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/briefgarden.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brief Garden<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This beautifully designed landscape has a fairytale feel and is a stunning setting for a romantic walk or morning stroll.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brief Garden can be found 8 km outside of Bentota and is home to renowned architect Bevis Bawa. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The mesmerizing gardens have a unique design inspired by Japanese and colonial architecture.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wander among the exotic greenery and breathe in the tranquillity of the gardens, for a magical day out from Bentota.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_3676\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-3676\" style=\"width: 1000px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3676\" src=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_1103123723.jpg\" alt=\"Lose yourself in the beauty of Brief Garden.\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_1103123723.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_1103123723-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/shutterstock_1103123723-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-3676\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Lose yourself in the beauty of Brief Garden.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Where to eat in Bentota<\/h2>\n<h5>Malli\u2019s Seafood Restaurant<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For exceptional seafood in stylish surroundings, pay a visit to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/m.facebook.com\/mallisseafood\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Malli\u2019s Seafood Restaurant<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> while you\u2019re in Bentota. Their deliciously fresh fish dishes and authentic Sri Lankan recipes will blow you away and the relaxed atmosphere is perfect for an evening meal. With friendly service and a sumptuous menu, it\u2019s easy to see why Malli\u2019s is a favourite in Bentota!<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" style=\"background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);\" data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/Bp8RPqDg3g6\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading\" data-instgrm-version=\"12\">\n<div style=\"padding: 16px;\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;\">\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;\">\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"padding: 19% 0;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"padding-top: 8px;\">\n<div style=\"color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;\">View this post on Instagram<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"padding: 12.5% 0;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;\">\n<div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-left: 8px;\">\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-left: auto;\">\n<div style=\"width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;\">\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;\"><a style=\"color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/Bp8RPqDg3g6\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading\" rel=\"noopener\">A post shared by Malli&#8217;s Seafood Restaurant (@mallisseafood)<\/a> on <time style=\"font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;\" datetime=\"2018-11-09T01:48:31+00:00\">Nov 8, 2018 at 5:48pm PST<\/time><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h5>The Happy Garden Restaurant<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Happy Garden Restaurant is a must-visit in Bentota, if only for its unique location! The place is perched on the very edge of the railway track, so diners can see trains passing right by their table. Besides this unique experience, the restaurant offers a delicious Sri Lankan menu, great service and reasonable prices.<\/span><\/p>\n<h5>Pier88 River Bar<\/h5>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.thumbelinaapartments.com\/pier-88-river-bar\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pier88<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is by far one of the most popular places to dine in Bentota. Their generous portions of exceptional food and a breathtaking setting on the banks on the river are unbeatable. Come here at least once during your stay to indulge yourself in a meal that delights every sense, especially if you\u2019re travelling as a couple!<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" style=\"background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);\" data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BXKouUAgtwR\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading\" data-instgrm-version=\"12\">\n<div style=\"padding: 16px;\">\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;\">\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;\">\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"padding: 19% 0;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"padding-top: 8px;\">\n<div style=\"color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;\">View this post on Instagram<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"padding: 12.5% 0;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;\">\n<div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-left: 8px;\">\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-left: auto;\">\n<div style=\"width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;\">\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;\"><a style=\"color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BXKouUAgtwR\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading\" rel=\"noopener\">A post shared by Ovin Kaushalya (@ovin_kaushalya)<\/a> on <time style=\"font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;\" datetime=\"2017-07-30T09:46:34+00:00\">Jul 30, 2017 at 2:46am PDT<\/time><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h2>Where to stay in Bentota<\/h2>\n<p><iframe style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h5>To be by the beach<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many travellers come to Bentota to take advantage of the incredible coastline in this area. If this sounds like you, look for somewhere to stay right on the beach! A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/villas\/villa6362.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">holiday villa<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a great option for families with kids and can give you unbeatable access to soft white sands and calm waters.<\/span><\/p>\n<h5>To be in the lap of luxury<\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019ve cash to splash and want your accommodation to reflect it, consider renting a villa in Bentota. The area has a lot to offer the luxuy traveller and is home to some <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/villas\/villa6483.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">incredible holiday villas<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. These breathtaking homes are stylishly designed and sumptuously furnished, with stunning spaces and private pools. Indulge yourself in the finest of Bentota and make your trip one of a kind!<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Bentota Guide The southwestern resort town of Bentota is a popular stop for many travellers in Sri Lanka. The area is renowned for its stunning beaches and a variety of activities; in fact, many people choose to spend their whole holiday here! From cultural excursions to bicycle trips through the countryside, there\u2019s plenty to do [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":3675,"parent":1063,"menu_order":330,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3317","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Insider&#039;s Guide To Bentota, Sri Lanka: Turtles, Temples &amp; Countryside<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What are the best things to see and do in bentota? From turtles to temples and tonnes of countryside, here are the coolest things to do in our Bentota guide\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatsandretreats.com\/travel\/bali\/where-to-stay\/bentota\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Insider&#039;s Guide To Bentota, Sri Lanka: Turtles, Temples &amp; Countryside\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"What are the best things to see and do in bentota? 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