Located just a short drive from Colombo, Mount Lavinia is a picturesque coastal town that’s famous for its golden beaches and colonial architecture. The town is named after the Governor’s residence, which was built in the 1800s and is now a luxury hotel. Mount Lavinia beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve up delicious seafood and Sri Lankan cuisine. The town’s historic sites include the 18th-century Buddhist temple and the Mount Lavinia Railway Station, which was built during the British colonial period. The town has a lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and live music venues.