Bentota Lagoon Fishing, Sofa Ride & Canoeing — Full-Day Water Sports Experience
Spend a day on Bentota’s lagoon combining a 2 km sofa ride, an hour of canoeing and two hours of guided lagoon fishing with equipment included. Calm mornings, mangrove-lined channels and easy hotel pickup around Colombo make this a practical introduction to Sri Lanka’s southwest waterways.
The Experience
Before You Go
Plan for the tide
Book a morning slot when the tide is slack for calmer water and easier canoeing.
Protect electronics
Use a small dry bag for phones and cameras — splashes are frequent during the sofa ride and fishing.
Bring motion-sickness aids
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand and sit centrally on the sofa ride.
Respect wildlife and hatcheries
Do not feed wildlife and follow guides’ instructions near turtle hatcheries and nesting areas.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lunuganga Estate (Geoffrey Bawa’s garden) a short drive inland for architecture and gardens
- •Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Centre—visit outside peak tourist hours to see hatchlings with minimal disturbance
Wildlife
- •White-throated kingfisher
- •Sri Lankan water monitor (common along riverbanks)
Conservation Note
The mangrove and lagoon ecosystem is sensitive; avoid single-use plastics, follow guide instructions near wildlife, and support local turtle conservation efforts.
Bentota’s lagoon has long supported coastal fishing communities and was influenced by Portuguese, Dutch and British trade networks that shaped local settlement and architecture.
What to Bring
Quick-dry water shoesEssential
Provides grip and comfort when boarding boats and walking muddy estuary banks.
Small dry bag (5–10L)Essential
Keeps phone, wallet and camera dry during the sofa ride and canoeing.
Sunscreen and wide-brim hatEssential
Tropical sun and reflective water increase UV exposure—protect skin and eyes.
Lightweight rain jacket
Useful during sudden tropical showers or monsoon-period weather changes.
Common Questions
Is fishing equipment provided?
Yes — rods, basic tackle, bait and soft drinks are provided as part of the two-hour lagoon fishing segment.
Will I likely catch fish?
Catches vary by season and tide; guides target mangrove edges where small snapper and trevally are common, but there are no guarantees.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be supervised; parents should ensure kids can sit safely in small boats and wear life jackets.
Do you provide pickup from Colombo hotels?
Yes — the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off around Colombo; confirm exact pickup location and time when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–8 hours
Location
Bentota, Southern Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness and basic mobility are required; must be able to step into small boats and stand for short periods.
Ready to Explore Bentota?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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