Tucked between Bentota and Beruwala beaches, Moragalla Beach is a less-touristy haven for tranquil seaside getaways. Laden with golden sands and thick mangroves, it sits adjoined to Bentota River’s estuary, which protects the shoreline from strong and fast ocean currents. This makes Moragalla beach perfect for snorkelling, swimming, windsurfing and other water sports. There is also a temple and several trendy beach bars.
Erected between 1900 and 1910, Richmond Castle is the erstwhile country seat of Mudaliyar Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena, a high-ranking native colonial-era headman. Boasting exemplary Edwardian and eastern architecture, the magnificent castle sits amidst 42 acres of orchards on a hill adjoining River Kalu Ganga. It is currently owned by the Public Trustee, and its sixteen gorgeous rooms are all open to visitors.