Escape to Bali, Indonesia and experience pure paradise on the island’s beautiful beaches. Bali is known for its volcanic peaks, deep spirituality, lush rice paddies, rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning coastline.
Relish in the sun and surf on this idyllic island’s sandy shores, the true definition of a dreamy tropical vacation. From lively seaside spots with watersports and cafés to more secluded, tranquil coves, there’s a beach to appeal to every interest, whether you’re looking for surf, snorkeling or a snooze in the shade of a palm tree.
Uncover the beauty of some of the best beaches in Bali.
Padang Padang Beach, Uluwatu
Padang Padang Beach, Uluwatu
Hailed as a surfer’s paradise, Padang Padang Beach is well known for its iconic break with a consistent set of barrel waves. Also called Pantai Labuan Sait, the famous beach has been host to popular international surfing competitions throughout the years.
Located on the Bukit Peninsula’s northern edge, between Uluwatu and Bingin, Padang Padang is one of the most famous beaches in Bali. The small but stunning stretch of rock-strewn golden sand is accessed by stairs that bring you through a limestone cave-like rock for a dramatic entrance. You’ll see a temple on your way down, monkeys scampering over the rooftop.
Padang Padang Beach, Uluwatu
Wade into the aquamarine water and cool off, watch the skilled surfers navigate the waves, or, if you are a surfer yourself, board rentals are available on site too. Stop for lunch at a local “warung” (restaurant) and fill up on traditional dishes as you take in more of the picturesque scenery. Vendors selling t-shirts and other souvenirs are available as well.
Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach
Head to the almost five-mile stretch of sand on Bali’s southeastern coast for sun, sand, and a laid-back atmosphere. This beach is the departing point for passenger boats going to nearby islands, so there’s always a buzz here.
On a clear day, the vista stretches to the towering Mount Agung and out to Nusa Penida island. Take a dip in the calm, shallow waters, or rent a kayak for a leisurely paddle. Remember your snorkel gear and venture out to the reef to admire the vibrant marine life.
Jaja
A paved path along the coast provides the perfect place to stretch your legs with a walk or bike ride, with the sea breeze to cool you off. Stop along the way to pick up some delicious street food items such as lumpia (Indonesian spring rolls) or jaja, a sweet dumpling often eaten for breakfast. Browse shops for souvenirs in between sunbathing on the sands and watching the wooden fishing boats bob in the sea at Sanur Beach.
Lovina Beach
Lovina Beach
Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy looking for dolphins at Lovina Beach on Bali’s northern coast; the name Lovina means “Love for the motherland” and this black sand beach is certainly a departure from many of the others on the island.
Bottle-nosed dolphins frequently play in the water here, and viewing these curious creatures is a real delight. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities as well, with what are regarded as some of the island’s best coral reefs just offshore.
Lovina Beach
For the ultimate experience, hop on a “jukung” boat and venture out with a guide for a chance to watch the dolphins. They’re used to boats and you may even see them performing acrobatics at close hand.
Kuta Beach
Kuta Beach
A former fishing village on Bali’s southwestern coast, Kuta Beach is located just south of Canggu and Seminyak. The three-mile stretch of sand draws surfing enthusiasts, sunbathers, and everything in between to its idyllic shore. The wide variety of activities, food and beverage options, and relaxed atmosphere make this one of the best places to visit in Bali.
Although Kuta Beach is known for its incredible sunset viewing and nightlife, daytime offers a beach lover’s haven as well. Lounge on the sand, take a swim in the calm, clear waters, or stroll along the sand. If you’re looking to get a bit more active, parasailing, banana boat rides, and other water sports are available too.
Restaurants and bars provide refreshments, and small shops are a great place to purchase souvenirs including handicrafts, jewelry and beachwear. Take relaxation a step further and get a Balinese massage; you’ll have your pick of spa offerings both on and around Kuta Beach.
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Green Bowl Beach
Green Bowl Beach
Lying at the base of a towering limestone cliff on the southern coast of the island, the secluded Green Bowl Beach has a desert island feel, which is why it’s regarded by many as one of the best beaches in Bali.
A perfect destination for adventurous beachgoers prepared to tackle the 300 stone steps to get down to the sand, Green Bowl is famous with surfers looking to tackle the waves and those interested in getting away from it all.
The name “Green Bowl” comes from the green hue of the cliffs and the dense vegetation that frames the golden sand. Once you’ve negotiated the steps, enjoy the uncrowded shores and sparkling turquoise water of this Indonesian gem.
Green Bowl Beach
Low tide is the optimal time to visit and the best for snorkeling around the reef in the clear seas with ideal conditions for viewing the rich marine life.
After your time at the beach, climb back up the stairway and cool off with fresh coconut water or other snacks from the local warungs perched at the top. Make sure to stop and visit Pura Batu Pageh, a unique Hindu temple within a cave that is situated close to the entrance of Green Bowl Beach.
Pemuteran Beach
Pemuteran Beach
Venture to the tranquil northern coast of Bali and discover excellent scuba diving and snorkeling at Pemuteran Beach. This stretch of sand will give you an authentic, more peaceful experience while allowing you to explore all the riches beneath the surface of the beautiful sea.
With unspoiled scenery of black, volcanic sand, sparkling water, and a backdrop of jungly mountains, and fishing boats bobbing on the water, you’ll quickly understand why Pemuteran is considered a find.
A good mix of sun and shade make for a comfortable day spent at the more rustic beach here. If you’re looking to stretch your legs, head to the nearby Pura Batu Kursi, a hilltop temple with fantastic views. A 20-minute trek uphill will provide you with an unforgettable vista of Pemuteran Bay and the surrounding area.
Menjangan Island
Bring your snorkel gear and swim among tropical fish, keeping an eye out for graceful sea turtles or enormous manta rays. Alternatively, it’s possible to hop on a dive boat to go deeper with your scuba equipment and view even more marine life; scuba concessions on the beach will provide all the gear.
Most of the scuba boats go to the nearby Menjangan Island, a diving mecca with reefs, drop-offs, and even a wreck.
Tanjung Benoa Beach
Tanjung Benoa Beach
Located on Bali’s east coast, Tanjung Benoa Beach is perfect for those looking to enjoy watersports. The white sand beach is near the fishing village of the same name, just north of Nusa Dua. It lures visitors with the opportunity to water ski, wakeboard, parasail, flyboard, and scuba dive, to name a few.
The clear, calm water is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and a shady respite can be found on the beach under the palm trees. There are just enough waves to make a banana boat ride thrilling, jet-skiing adrenaline pumping, and wakeboarding exciting.
Echo Beach, Canggu
Echo Beach, Canggu
One of Bali’s black sand beaches, Echo Beach in Canggu is situated on the southwestern shores of the island. The popular swell draws surfers from all over the world, interested in tackling the reef breaks with their boards.
If you’re interested in learning how to surf, it’s possible to sign up for a lesson here as well. Swimming isn’t recommended, but you can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the beach and the scenic backdrop of the Pantai Batu Mejan temple.
Echo Beach, Canggu
The wide expanse of sand makes for an uncrowded experience despite the beach’s popularity. Hotels, restaurants, and bars line the edge of the sand, with plenty of facilities available to beachgoers too. Lounge in a chair, sip a seaside drink and people-watch, or take a leisurely stroll and observe the skilled surfers.
Canggu is known for its café scene, so venture into town and sample some of the trendy and delicious eateries. Try some of the local Indonesian dishes such as mie goreng (fried noodles) or cool off with a smoothie.
Pandawa Beach
Pandawa Beach
Pandawa Beach lies on Bali’s southern coast, just east of Green Bowl Beach. This popular stretch of white sand has something to appeal to all types of beachgoers, with restaurants, facilities, water sports, and swimming.
Backed by limestone cliffs, the scenery provides fantastic photo opportunities as well. Before it became popular among visitors, Pandawa was known for its seaweed farms, some of which still exist today.
Lounge on the half-mile swath of sand in between dips in the clear turquoise sea. Order some Balinese food at the quaint cafés or from a local vendor and enjoy a beach picnic.
Seminyak Beach
Seminyak Beach
One of the most popular beaches in all of Bali is the trendy Seminyak Beach, situated just north of Kuta Beach. The three-mile stretch of sand attracts visitors with its lively atmosphere, many activities, shopping, and wide array of restaurants.
Enjoy a leisurely swim, bask in the sun, or try surfing; Seminyak Beach has a little of everything. Board rentals are available for those interested in catching a few waves.
Seminyak Beach
In addition to enjoying the beach, Seminyak is known for its hipster dining and shopping scene, with world-class restaurants and designer boutiques. Before or after your visit to the beach, make a point to indulge in the culinary scene that Bali is known for; the area draws world-class chefs who specialize in contemporary interpretations of Balinese cuisine.
Don’t want to leave the sand? Cool off with a drink at one of the bars where you can still feel the sea breeze. Seminyak Beach is undoubtedly one of the famous beaches in Bali and shouldn’t be missed.
Geger & Nusa Dua Beach
Nusa Dua Beach
Side by side on the luxurious eastern edge of the Bukit Peninsula, the long sweep of blond sand fronting Nusa Dua’s resorts constitutes two of the best beaches in Bali.
Along both stretches, you’ll find spotless sands lapped by crystal-clear waters, shade provided by periodic palms, and plenty of excellent dining options, thanks to the numerous resort restaurants.
Take a stroll until you find your perfect pocket of sand, set up camp for a lazy day of sunbathing, or opt for a surf lesson at the Black Stone surfing spot.
Geger Beach
Separating the two beaches is a small, garden-like peninsula decorated with Balinese sculptures, a tiny temple, and an outdoor theater where traditional Kecak—a Balinese dance accompanied by Hindu chants and fire performances—is performed at dusk.
Follow the trail to the craggy edge of the peninsula to witness one of Bali’s natural phenomena, the Water Blow. On windy days, aggressive waves crash against these rugged, volcanic rocks, sending water shooting up into the sky.
Nelayan Beach, Canggu
Nelayan Beach, Canggu
Nestled between two of Canggu’s better-known beaches, unfussy Nelayan Beach retains much of the character that made this part of Bali so beloved.
Lacking much of the development and the upscale beach bars of the neighboring beaches, it’s rarely hard to find a patch of the slightly darker sands to call your own.
Dining options and bathrooms are still plentiful, thanks to the locally run wooden shacks that back the beach, often selling fresh fish caught by the colorful jukung outriggers out front. Stick around for sunset and you’ll see the beach come alive with surfers chasing the last light of the day.
Canggu
Another highlight of Nelayan Beach is the recently launched ferry service between Canggu and Uluwatu, which departs from here a few times a day.
Taking a little over 30 minutes, it’s not only a scenic alternative to driving, but a much faster way to travel between the Bukit Peninsula and the mainland, avoiding the often dense traffic between Kuta and Canggu while enjoying two gorgeous Bali beaches.
Menjangan Island
Menjangan Island
In the far northwest of the island, pushing up against the neighboring Indonesian island of Java, West Bali National Park is Bali’s most pristine and protected corner.
A true biodiversity haven, this park was designated as protected in 1917 to safeguard the tragically now extinct Bali tigers.
Monkey
Consisting of impeccably clean waters and colorful coral reefs, the park’s waters are a sanctuary for snorkeling and scuba diving. On land, you might spot monkeys and the bright white Bali starling bird.
Alternatively, just take it easy on Menjangan Island, the park’s verdant, almost development-free largest island fringed by soft, dazzling sands and lapped by cyan waters. It’s not the easiest of Bali’s beaches to access, but you’ll feel like you’ve found paradise once you arrive.
Gili Putih Sumberkima
Snorkeling in Sumberkima
Just east of Menjangan Island, a handful of slight sandbars, including Gili Putih Sumberkima, rise from the swirling turquoise shallows, supplying some of Bali’s smallest but most sensational sands.
To reach the sandbars, you’ll need to rent a kayak from near Mangrove Bay—the journey takes around 45 minutes—or arrange a fishing boat trip from the mainland’s Sumberkima Beach.
Once there, you’ll feel like you’ve escaped to a private island. Far fewer visitors stray to this side of the island and often, there won’t be anyone else on the sandbars. Come prepared, as there are no facilities on the sandbars; essentials include refreshments, snacks, sunscreen, and water shoes.
Melasti Beach
Melasti Beach
Backed by towering limestone cliffs that have essentially been sliced to provide road access, Melasti is not only one of the best beaches in Bali’s south, but it’s also the island’s southernmost point.
As with most of the beaches on the Bukit Peninsula, Melasti Beach is well equipped with bathrooms, showers, restaurants, and an adult-only beach club, fronted by an infinity pool directly on the beach.
If you’d prefer a more relaxed afternoon, bring a towel and find a spot of white sand on either side of the often DJ-accompanied bars.
Ampitheater near Melasti Beach
Melasti Beach is also an excellent spot to enjoy the sunset, especially while watching a Kecak dance show against the backdrop of the ocean. An open-air amphitheater just east of the beach club—after the peninsula that denotes Bali’s southernmost point—hosts performances daily at dusk.
Pasir Putih Beach
Pasir Putih Beach
Pasir Putih, often referred to as Virgin Beach due to its almost untouched, paradisiacal nature, is one of the best beaches in Bali for those seeking a typical, tropical island setting.
Located on Bali’s east coast just beyond the coastal town of Candidasa, around 90 minutes from Denpasar, the detour is rewarded with some of the island’s most sparkling white sands shrouded by coconut palms.
Rent a beach chair and parasol, and you’ll be all set for a perfect Balinese beach afternoon flitting between the bath-like waters, feasting on freshly grilled mahi mahi at the beachside warung, and experiencing a more local atmosphere.
Tanah Lot Beach
Tanah Lot Beach
With uncomfortable volcanic rocks and little sand, Tanah Lot Beach is certainly not one of the finest Bali beaches for sunbathing. However, it’s one of the island’s most unmissable experiences.
Perched on a prominent rocky outcrop just beyond the beach, the 16th-century Pura Tanah Lot is arguably the island’s most photogenic temple and one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites on the beautiful island.
Tanah Lot Temple
Come at high tide and the temple’s rock-hewn staircase, the meru, the multi-tiered shrines typical of Balinese Hinduism, and thatched pavilions are entirely cut off from the mainland as they become surrounded by water.
Time your visit for low tide, though, and you’ll be able to paddle out to the temple—water shoes recommended—and potentially witness a small ceremony or offering. The beach is particularly popular at sunset, when Bali’s crimson skies silhouette the unique structure.
Jimbaran Beach
Jimbaran Beach
For fresh fish plated with personality, it’s hard to beat Jimbaran Beach. Located on the Bukit Peninsula, just south of the airport, this bustling golden sand bay is a local go-to, especially at sunset.
It’s also one of the longest Bali beaches, arching for around two and a half miles along the slender stretch of land that connects the peninsula with the main part of the island, meaning even though it can get busy, there’s always plenty of space to lay out your towel.
Restaurant near Jimbaran Beach
Walk along the shoreline and you’ll have no shortage of seafood and freshly grilled fish to choose from, thanks to the countless warungs right on the beach.
Once you’ve selected your dinner—usually displayed on ice—snuggle your feet into the sand right at the table and enjoy your freshly-caught feast accompanied by a sensational sunset. Be sure to arrive early to secure a front-row seat.
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Bingin Beach
Bingin Beach
What keeps Bingin one of the best beaches in Bali is the access. As it’s located at the base of Uluwatu’s dramatic cliffs, you’ll need to descend—and then climb back up—nearly 200 uneven and sometimes deep stairs to reach the rocky and sandy shoreline.
Once down, though, you’ll feel like you’ve been cocooned far away from the crowds. Even the restaurants above feel somewhat distant due to the near-vertical design of the beach.
Bingin Beach
For the most comfortable, sandy experience, base yourself at the northern end of the beach where you can arrange parasols and lounge chairs practically lapped by crystal clear waters.
Return via the stairs at the southern end to spot the rock islets and take a cocktail pause on the terrace of The Beach by Ours, which overhangs the beach.
Purnama Beach
It’s only a 30-minute drive northeast of Sanur to the dark volcanic sands of Purnama Beach, yet it feels a world away.
Here, you’re far more likely to encounter locals and fishermen, or perhaps even witness a religious ceremony, due to the beach’s importance to the local Hindu community.
Still, the rice-field fronting beach isn’t completely undeveloped. There are a couple of restaurants providing facilities and food options throughout the day, alongside a small warung that serves more traditional dishes.
Balian Beach
Balian Beach
Balian Beach is situated just beyond the urban sprawl of Bali’s southern coast in the less-developed Tabanan Regency, making the volcanic, river-wrapped sands a peaceful escape.
There’s little to do here, other than surf, sunbathe or grab a coffee and snack at one of the few unfussy warungs overlooking the beach, and that’s very much the appeal. It’s a little taste of what the beaches around Canggu and Seminyak were like a couple of decades ago.
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Nyang Nyang Beach
Nyang Nyang Beach Photo by Burmesedays on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Secluded, serene, and all-around sensational, Nyang Nyang is one of the best beaches in Bali. Located on the south coast near Uluwatu, it was also one of the island’s most inaccessible shorelines for many years, until a new road was carved through the rocks in recent years.
Still, you’ll need to be prepared for a steep journey down to the sands, or to arrive on a scooter transfer. But even from the cliffs above, it’s one of Bali’s prettiest coastal views, which only gets more magical after you reach the shore.
Due to the difficult access, limited facilities, and dining options, Nyang Nyang is rarely busy, so finding a sunbathing spot comes easily. However, be aware that the waves and currents can be intense here, making it ideal for surfers, but not advisable for swimming.
FAQs
Which side of Bali has the best beaches?
Seminyak
For the best beaches in Bali, head to the southern and southwestern side of the island, where the currents are calmer and the sands whiter than in the north. Canggu and Seminyak are two of the trendiest beaches, while the southwestern Bukit Peninsula has both relaxed, resort-backed beaches and more dramatic bays hemmed in by cliffs and pounded by surf.
What are the best beaches in Bali for surfing?
Padang Padang Beach
The best beaches for experienced surfers in Bali are found around Uluwatu, such as Bingin Beach for its exposed reef break, and Padang Padang Beach. For first-time surfing in Bali, consider lessons at Echo Beach in Canggu, where you’ll find a welcoming and laid-back surfing community and many schools.
What are the best beaches in Bali for families?
Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach is often considered Bali’s best beach for families, especially those with younger children, due to the artificial design and stone walls, which keep the waters calmer and suitable for paddling or swimming. Around Nusa Dua, the currents are generally tranquil, and the abundance of restaurants and resorts, as well as lifeguards, makes for a preferred family spot for a day out.
What are the best quiet and less crowded beaches in Bali?
Pasir Putih
To experience a quieter beach in Bali, look beyond the main southern coast towns and venture further north, east or west. Lovina Beach, one of Southeast Asia’s best beaches better known for dolphin-spotting trips, is generally very serene. As are the beaches around Menjangan Island and Candidasa, such as Pasir Putih Beach.
What are the best beaches in Bali for snorkeling?
Marine life in Bali
Bali has many excellent beaches for snorkeling, with the waters around Menjangan Island considered the best. Also on the north coast, Lovina Beach and Pemuteran Beach are popular with snorkelers. The clear waters and reefs of the Bukit Peninsula, particularly around Green Bowl Beach, also promise clear visibility and usually calmer waters than those of the north coast.
What are the best beach clubs in Bali?
Beach club in Bali
Bali has no shortage of beach clubs, often with ocean-view pools, dining, and included lounge chairs. Adult-only Tropical Temptation in Melasti and world-famous FINNS in Seminyak have a lively, animated atmosphere all day. For a more laid-back and peaceful experience, consider Pasir Putih Beach Club, located on the north coast.
Which island beaches can you visit on a day trip from Bali?
Menjangan Island
One of the best beach island day trips from Bali is Menjangan Island. Located within the West Bali National Park Conservation Area, it’s easily accessible from the north of Bali. It’s also possible to take a day trip to the beaches of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida from Sanur.
Seminyak Beach
A cruise is a fantastic way to experience some of the best beaches in Bali. Whether you’re interested in a surf holiday, classy dining, or finding peace and quiet on golden sands fringed by lush rainforest, there’s a setting for everyone. Browse our cruises to Bali and book your getaway today.
