Beaches

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 Most famous beaches in Bali

BALI’S BEST BEACHES

1. Seminyak Beach – best for the hedonists

If being in the heart of Bali’s oceanfront action is your kinda thang, then Seminyak Beach is the place for you. Along this impressive 5km stretch of golden sand, you’ll find beach bars aplenty, five-star hotels and Seminyak’s very best restaurants just footsteps from the waves – not to mention world-famous beach clubs in every direction. Beginning on the outskirts of crazy Kuta, trailing all the way up to the coastal corners of Canggu, Seminyak Beach is a holiday destination in itself. Learn to surf in the gentle whitewash of the waves, soak up the sunshine on a squishy sun bed, or settle into a comfy, colourful beanbag at La Plancha for a round of sundowners – Ibiza-style beats included.

2. Nusa Dua Beach – best for families

A seemingly endless stretch of powder white perfection, Nusa Dua Beach is so flawless, it almost looks manmade. It borders the coastline of Nusa Dua’s resort area, fringed by manicured lawns and five-star hotels that have been tastefully sheltered by palm trees and natural building materials. Not only are the beaches impeccably clean and the waters calm, the shoreline is full of family-friendly restaurants, water sports and even a shopping complex. It’s the ideal destination for a fun-filled family day out that won’t leave the little ones hot and bothered, thanks to plenty of places to cool off and recharge.

3. Echo Beach (Canggu) – best for people watching

What was once the go-to destination for a romantic beachfront barbecue has now become one of the coolest oceanfront spots to see and be seen. Echo Beach is the watering hole of Canggu (quite literally) with countless surf spots in every direction and shabby-chic bars dotted along the black sands facing the ocean. And what an ocean view there is. Expect beach babes in their Brazilian-cut bikinis, scruffy haired surfer dudes with sun-kissed bods, and beloved Bali dogs with their expat owners taking a sunset stroll. This lively, community-driven coastline goes from a playground of sun and surf by day, to a wild party spot by night. Bring an acoustic guitar for extra street cred, and don’t forget

4.  Jimbaran Bay –best for seafood sunsets

This long, expansive, soft white sand beach is not only well known for its gorgeous scenery (the glittering sands stretch for a full 3km), but also as the spot where local fishermen sell their fresh-from-the-net seafood each morning at the bustling markets. As the island’s seafood hub, it’s no surprise then that you’ll also find a number of beachfront barbecues dotted along the coastline, cooking up the day’s catch for your grazing pleasure as the sun sets. For a romantic seafood dinner, head to the bay before dark and choose your ocean treats from the display to devour just a few minutes later. Or if it’s sunshine you’re after, find a quiet spot away from the stalls and enjoy the calm waters from dawn until dusk – it’s the perfect bay to cruise around on a stand-up paddle board.

5. Thomas Beach – best for secluded beach walks & sunbaking

Ever since the opening of some cool Uluwatu restaurants at the top of this hidden bay, Thomas Beach is no longer a secret – though it’s still one of the quietest beaches in the Bukit (and arguably still the best beach in Bali!). Accessible only via a gravel lane and then a winding set of crumbling stairs, this secluded strip of white sand beach is well worth descending down the cliff for. Fringed by turquoise waters and dramatic boulders that protrude from the sand, this is postcard-perfection to a tee.

6. Sanur Beach – best for sunrise & cycling

If it’s a leisurely day out at the seaside you’re after, then head to sleepy Sanur for an easy-breezy day at the beach. Besides its seemingly never-ending stretch of white sand, Sanur’s main beachfront attraction is the coastal promenade that extends over 5km long. This ocean path curves past resorts, beachfront cafes, wooden fishing boats under repair and quite a few elegant old villas built decades ago by the wealthy expats who fell under Bali’s spell. Take a romantic stroll with your partner, or get some exercise on a bicycle with the family. Top tip: Sanur is in prime position for spectacular sunrises, so you’ll want to start early.

7. Keramas Beach – best for pool hangs & front-row surf seats

With Mount Agung behind you and pumping waves in front of you, Keramas Beach is a sight to be seen indeed. Sitting on the east coast away from the crowds, Keramas is best known for its standalone beachfront destination, Komune Beach Club. This paradisal perch nudges the dramatic black sands, with a stunning infinity pool at the helm and the sparkling ocean out yonder. Settle in to the beachfront day beds, graze by the pool or stay in the adjoining Komune Resort to catch the night-time surf sessions at dusk. Double points if you visit during the annual World Surf League competition that attracts superstar surfers from around the world…

8. Amed Beach – best for diving & snorkelling

With black sands and soaring volcanoes on the horizon, Amed isn’t your typical beachfront vista. But boy is it a good’un. Sitting on Bali’s northeastern coast, Amed is known for its dramatic landscapes that guarantee awe-inspiring holiday pics. And if you’re into diving or snorkelling, Amed is also home to one of the island’s most vibrant reefs – a coral garden that’s as colourful as it is popular. An adventure beneath the waves here often involves a trip to nearby Tulamben too, to explore the sunken US Liberty Shipwreck that’s teaming with life and aquatic beauty. You’ll definitely want an underwater camera for this one…

9. Bingin Beach – best for boho vibes & epic surf

Look out for the signs made of recycled wood, or follow the small groups of Bali’s cool crowds with surf boards in-hand and sand-covered bare-feet. Bingin Beach is a boho hideaway that’s relatively hard to find unless you know where you’re going – or who to follow. With perfect waves and small sandy coves for swimming at low tide, this cliff-based beach is a favourite for Bali’s sun soakers and surfers. You’ll need to be relatively fit to get to and from the beach (there are uneven, rocky steps from the top of the cliff to the sands), but your efforts will certainly be rewarded. Dozens of affordable beach stays line the cliffside too, making this a good spot for budget trips or a no-frills sunset on a blanket. There are some great healthy cafés here too, p

10. Sundays Beach Club – best for VIP lounging

Another South Bali gem, Sundays Beach Club at The Ungasan Clifftop Resort is tucked away in a private white sand bay, with stunning turquoise blue waters and an offshore coral reef. Hidden discretely at the bottom of a dramatic cliff face, this paradisal spot is accessed via an inclinator that takes you directly down to this awesome beach club. Come hungry, because you’ll want to tuck into the delicious island-inspired menu here, and stick around until sunset for the magical bonfires on the beach. Just be sure to save enough time for some serious water-based frolicking, like snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking across the crystal clear waters.

11. Medewi Beach – best for sunset & surf

In prime position along Bali’s sunset coast, Medewi is a lesser known beach on the west side of the island that offers a glimpse of Bali before tourism struck. With remote villages and wide open rice paddies lining the palm-studded coastline, come here for a tranquil escape, not an action-packed day at the beach That is, unless you’re a keen surfer. Flocked mostly by visitors in search of uncrowded, world-class waves, Medewi is an isolated surfing destination that doesn’t require a flight to get to, but is far enough away from the crowds to guarantee a quieter sesh in the water. Stick around for golden hour, as that’s when Medewi’s west-facing magic really shines…

12. Balangan Beach – best for surf & sunbathing

Located in the South of Bali on the Bukit Peninsula, Balangan Beach is best known amongst the island’s surfing crowds and those looking for a laid back beach experience without the throng of touristic beach clubs. Ocean babies can enjoy the aquamarine waters at high tide, and sunbathers can lie beneath the many loungers and umbrellas that line the white sandy beach. This quiet strip is still fairly underdeveloped with just a few local warungs serving home-cooked Indonesian food and icy cold Bintangs. And since it’s blessed with awesome waves for both beginners and pros, Balangan attracts the surfy, backpacker types who prefer cool tropical vibes over a pumping party scene.

13. Blue Lagoon – best for spotting Nemo

The clue is in the name here. Blue Lagoon on Bali’s eastern coast is an azure, beachy bay with calm waters, white sands and a palm tree backdrop – the epitome of paradise. On either side of the lagoon, you’ll find rocky hills and lush knolls, perfectly framing the bay for those all-important holiday pics. In the heart of the lagoon, snorkelling and diving boats are on the lookout for Nemo, because beneath the aquamarine ocean, Blue Lagoon is home to buzzing coral reefs and teeming underwater wildlife – quite the contrast to the secluded sands and quiet nooks on the shore. And for when you’re ready to beach-hop some more, Blue Lagoon is right next door to the Padang Bai harbour, where you can hop on a boat to the Gili Islands,

14. Padang Padang Beach – best for bay-watching

You might recognise this beautiful bay from the ever-famous “Eat, Pray, Love” movie, where Julia Roberts falls head over heels for her Brazilian hunk. Chances are, you’ll fall in love here too, not only with the bronzed surfer crowds, but with the calm cove-like waters rolling off the bright white bay, framed by dramatic rock formations and bordered by world-class waves. Though Padang Padang is a relatively small beach about 10 minutes north of Uluwatu, the setting is simply stunning. The best time to visit is early in the morning around sunrise when you can see Padang Padang in all its dazzling, natural glory – and before the throng of visitors descend on this

15. Balian Beach – best for black sands & surfing

Home to a growing number of expats and surf fanatics, Balian Beach draws in the cool crowds with its pounding surf, Instagram-friendly dunes and knolls, and new boho cafes and bars popping up every other day – all of which overlook the world-class waves from the towering cliff face above. Whether you simply stroll along the sprawling black sands, brave the water or kick back with a sunset beer post-surf, Balian Beach has an undeniable charm that keeps us coming back every other weekend. And it just so happens to sit in prime position on Bali’s west-facing sunset coast, too…

16. Suluban Beach – best for secret swims

This dreamy destination sits directly below the famous and bustling Single Fin bar, and it’s also the main access point to the world-renowned Uluwatu surf break. But come low tide, this spot at Suluban Beach is a true hidden treasure, and the best spot for a secret swim. Set against stunning dramatic cliffs, the water here is as turquoise as it gets. To access this little piece of paradise, you’ll need to walk down the steps at Uluwatu, through the caves and onto the sand. Remember, when it’s high tide, this swimming spot is inaccessible, so you’ll need to check the tide times for your trip, and don’t forget to pack your

17. Pandawa Beach – best for both worlds

Pandawa Beach has a mixed reputation – some love it for the bustle of sun-beds with beach umbrellas aplenty, but many will call it crowded and a little touristy. Well, if you’re after that busy beach vibe with everything you need just a few sandy footsteps away (cold drinks, Roosterfish beach club and a scatter of restaurants), then Pandawa Beach is exactly that. But if you want an empty stretch of sand with no one in sight, we’re going to let you in on a little secret and tell you that you can have that here too. Simply swing by during low-tide and wander past the crowds of beachgoers, and you’ll find untouched paradise. No sunbeds, no umbrellas, nothing – just a never-ending vista of white sand, lagoon-like waters and pure paradise. But shhh – you didn’t hear it from us…

18. Karma Beach – best for beach-chic babes

Part of the stunning Karma Kandara resort, this luxury and private beach spot brings the vibes of a swanky Mediterranean island, along with crowds of trendy globe-trotters looking for exclusivity in a totally chic setting. The sea is a perfect shade of azure blue – great for snorkelling and water sports. The crescent-shaped white sands are sprinkled with beach babes and their baes, sipping on designer cocktails and playing a spot of beach volleyball. Bronze beneath the beach-chic cabanas here and tuck into the delicious wood-fired pizzas from the natural bamboo restaurant. Here, heaven really is a place on earth…

19. White Sand Beach (Pantai Pasir Putih) – best for road trippers

Pasir Putih, also known as White Sand Beach or Virgin Beach, is a remote, off-the-beaten-path beach that rewards the most adventurous of road trippers. It’s located on the east coast of Bali, near to the village of Candidasa, and with its pristine soft white sands that dramatically contrast to its volcanic black sand neighbours, it seriously stands out. When you see the “white sand beach” sign, follow the dirt track until you reach the carpark. You’ll spot the lineup of local seafood BBQ stalls (perfect for a sea view lunch) and the calm, clear waters that make White Sand Beach a lovely spot for swimmers, too.

20. Gunung Payung – best for postcard-perfect pics

Gunung Payung, once known as Secret Beach, is the epitome of a picture-perfect, postcard paradise. Think powder white sands, warm tropical waters that are as flat as a duck pond at low-tide, and a lush green backdrop that feels like you’re at the edge of the world. What was once a treacherous 301 step trek up and down (we counted) now has a smooth road carved down the cliff for easy access. You’ll also find plenty of sunbeds, spots for refreshments and umbrellas to keep cool. When it comes to the best beach in Bali, this one’s well worth a visit.

21. Melasti Beach – best for a scenic drive

The drive down to Pantai Melasti (Melasti Beach) is almost as breathtaking as the moment you step on its powdery white sands. A road has been carved out of the limestone cliff, dramatically winding down the towering face of the rock. As you descend down towards the sand, you’re faced with a panoramic vista of Bali’s southernmost point: white sand, calm waters, and the gentle baseline from Palmilla Beach Club, which sits in the heart of the action. Our top tip: come here on low tide when the waters are calmer, and when there’s more exposed beach to enjoy.

22. Nusa Lembongan – best for day trippers

When you feel like you’ve ventured to all of Bali’s best beaches, swam in all of its seas and soaked up all of its sunshine, head to Sanur’s main harbour and hop on a 30 minute fast-boat over to the neighbouring island of Nusa Lembongan. As Bali’s lesser-known and quieter sibling, Nusa Lembongan has a whole host of stunning beaches that are relatively untouched. Dream Beach is one of the most famous (and loveliest), and though it’s garnered quite a bit of tourist attention in recent years, it’s still no match to mainland Bali. Hire a scooter to really explore this teeny island’s coastline, and look out for Mushroom Bay, Sandy Bay and Paradise Beach too. The names say it all…

23. Nusa Penida – best for Insta-worthy island adventures

We’ve all seen that iconic pic of the emerald green cliff-line soaring into the sky from the turquoise waters below. Well, this Insta-famous spot is located on Nusa Penida, the neighbouring island to Nusa Lembongan and just an hour’s boat ride away from mainland Bali. Much less built-up compared to Lembongan, Nusa Penida is for adventurous souls only. Expect dirt-track roads, hidden bays, local eateries and untouched landscapes – all in their pure raw beauty. Head to Kelingking Beach to get that all-important Insta shot, but make time to explore the rest of the island too, like Crystal Bay, Atuh Beach, and of course, Angel’s Billabong – a natural-formed infinity pool hidden in the rocks.

24.Soak in a ‘Jacuzzi’ – Tegal Wangi Beach

Another wonder of nature that should not be missed – make your way to Tegal Wangi Beach. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by this gorgeous escape.

Ever wanted to soak in your private tub with an amazing view of the ocean? Tegal Wangi Beach gives you exactly that.

With little holes on the shore filled with seawater fresh from the ocean – you can be sure to have a comfortable soak in your beachy ‘jacuzzi’.

A romantic place to have a lovely date at; make sure to take lots of photos to commemorate the time spent with your loved one.

25. Mystery Boulder Beach – Yeh Leh

You probably wouldn’t have heard of the Yeh Leh Beach unless you are a local fisherman.

Located in Jembrana, just off the Denpasar-Gilimanuk highway, Yeh Leh is not decorated with soft white sand like your ideal beach.

Instead, thousands of boulders litter the shore, either covered in algae or washed clean by the waves. These mysterious rocks have been smoothed over for hundreds of years, leaving few clues about their origin.

The beach is actually easily accessible, and you can visit at low tide to see Yeh Leh in all its glory, with the boulders unearthed and many interesting marine animals caught in the rock pools.

And if you can, don’t miss its stunning sunset, which lights up every shining rock on the shore.

26.Rugged and unspoilt – Atuh Beach, Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is home to some of Bali’s most beautiful, secluded beaches including Atuh Beach on the island’s east coast.

Looking out from the gorgeous, white sand crescent beach, you’ll see the dramatic surf-worn cliffs of Juntil Cape to the left, and on the right, the rock island of Labuan Ampuak with its striking, craggy peaks.

Atuh is especially picturesque at low tide, when the exposed corals create a vibrant, living foreground for spectacular shots of the island.

27.Incredible azure landscapes – The Blue Lagoon, Nusa Ceningan

The crystal blue waters of Nusa Ceningan’s Blue Lagoon are the picture perfect ideal of an island paradise.

Most people come to simply admire the million dollar view, but a few adventure seekers and daredevil locals have claimed an overhanging ledge as a legendary cliff-jumping spot. (Cliff jumping is now prohibited due to safety reasons)

The stomach-turning 12 metre plunge into the surging ocean below is a rush you won’t forget in a hurry.

Unfortunately, do note that a few unsuspecting travelers have been washed off the ledge in rough weather, and local authorities actively discourage jumping.

28.Visit the broken sea – Pasih Uug

Pasih Uug, also known as the broken sea, is one unique attraction in Nusa Penida that happens to be a cool geological phenomenon.

Why is it known as the broken sea? At first sight, you’ll see a natural arch created by the rock cliffs. The arch – or the hole in the rock cliff as some would say – actually used to be a cave!

The floor of the cave had collapsed, creating the arch we see today. The hole in the cliff has also allowed ocean waters to flow through – creating a gorgeous natural pool on the other side to marvel at, and even swim in!

29.Nothing like a secret getaway – Angel’s Billabong

The Angel’s Billabong is one of Nusa Penida’s secret getaways in the form of a marvelous natural infinity pool.

With its emerald hues and crystalline waters, the Angel’s Billabong is the epitome of stunning. And apparently, the green floors of this particular infinity pool are so comfortable to walk on (not slippery), it actually feels carpeted.

Imagine that! We sure wish we were lounging around at Angel’s Billabong this very moment.

PS: Do note that Angel’s Billabong can be dangerous. There have been people swept out to the ocean by waves rushing in!