As one of the island's most popular beach vacation hotspots, Bentota is the ideal destination for a weekend by the sea. Located within easy driving distance from the nation's capital Colombo, Bentota is a little piece of paradise that's also home to some of the best cultural and recreational highlights on the southern coastline. From finding the perfect base to enjoying sightseeing excursions in the area, here's how to make the most of a two-day holiday in Bentota.

Those who are heading to Bentota for a brief weekend away must first secure a convenient base from which to explore the seaside hamlet. As two days are not nearly enough time to experience all that the dynamic beach town has to offer, it's crucial to find a Bentota luxury villa that's ideally situated. So whether one chooses The Villa Bentota by KK Collection or any other hospitality hub, it's important to find a venue that's close to Bentota's best beaches, cultural attractions and water sports facilities.

To start your day in Bentota with a bang, why not try a kayaking tour on the Madu River? It's one of the most lively ecosystems in the area and you'll be able to catch a glimpse of monkeys, crocodiles, and snakes that call the riverbanks home. If you opt for an organized tour, you'll also have the chance to learn more about the river's natural features. If you'd rather stay on land after breakfast, you can join a VW Beetle tour or a cycling trip through the countryside. The village of Bentota is surrounded by temples and local markets, offering a peaceful and authentic experience that's a world away from the touristy areas of town.

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After a hearty lunch and a nap back at the hotel, visitors can head out for a river cruise on the Bentota River. The mangrove forests in this area are not only home to monitor lizards, tree frogs and bats but also innumerable winged beauties with vibrant plumage. Water sports fans, on the other hand, can enjoy a jet-ski ride around the coast or sign up for a banana boating experience. If there's time left, visitors can always head to a cooking class in the area to learn the basics of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Viewing the sunset from Bentota Beach while enjoying a swim is the perfect way to end the first day in the resort hotspot unless one wishes to embark on a night fishing trip at Bentota Lagoon where mullets, mangrove jack fish and other fish varieties are up for grabs.

Begin your day by exploring Geoffrey Bawa's Lunuganga Estate, which is the holiday home and extensive gardens of Sri Lanka's most famous architect. The estate opens at 9 am, so it's best to visit early in the morning. Spend your time walking along the Frangipani-lined paths of this beautiful estate. Horticulture enthusiasts and architecture buffs will find plenty of things to appreciate before heading to the venue's restaurant for a delicious traditional Sri Lankan meal.

Head to Bentota's turtle sanctuary after lunch to learn more about the endangered sea turtle species that lay eggs on Bentota Beach and other coastal areas of the island. After a tour of the turtle conservation hub, tourists can head to Bentota town to enjoy a shopping spree. Hunting for souvenirs at the local Batik and handicraft shops is a great way to spend an afternoon in the beach area.

Since it's the last night in Bentota, make the most of a nighttime swim or a dip in the pool before retiring back to the comfort of one's beach hotel for a good night's sleep. Night owls, however, can hit a beach bar or a beachside restaurant to indulge in one last cocktail.