Kuta Beach: Bali’s ultimate surf and party paradise
If you’re looking for the ultimate tropical seaside experience, our guide to the best beaches in Bali is your essential starting point.
For many, Kuta Beach is the first place that comes to mind when they think of Bali. Stretching for nearly five kilometers with its golden sands, Kuta has become one of the island’s most popular beaches, thanks to its mix of sunshine, surf, and lively nightlife. It was here that tourism in Bali first took off, and its location near the airport still makes it a convenient choice for visitors. Lined with hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops, the beach has everything you might need within easy reach. By day, you can lounge on a sunbed and watch surfers ride the waves. The waves are usually just the right size for beginners, so it’s no surprise that surf schools and rental boards are easy to find. Even if you don’t surf, there’s plenty to do. People exercise on the beach, run, and have fun in the sand, keeping the coast lively all day long. Come sunset, Kuta reveals its most famous face. As the sun dips into the horizon like a fiery red orb, the shoreline becomes a front-row seat to one of Bali’s most spectacular sights. Additionally, lifeguards are on duty, and loungers are set up by the municipality and nearby hotels.
Jimbaran beach to enjoy the sunset
Located in South Bali, Jimbaran Beach is known for its peaceful vibe and stunning sunsets. This vast bay, with its golden sands, is especially loved by families. During the day, you’ll see swimmers enjoying the calm waters and kids playing along the shoreline. In the evening, as the sky turns crimson, Jimbaran becomes the backdrop for some of Bali’s most breathtaking sunsets. What makes Jimbaran even more unique are its seafood restaurants. After sunset, tables are set right on the sand, offering a feast of freshly caught fish and shellfish. The day’s catch is prepared with care, grilled over barbecue, and then served to guests. Eating grilled fish or prawns at a beachfront table, with the sound of the ocean in the background, is an unforgettable experience. The restaurants are popular for their flavor and affordability, but seats fill up fast, so it’s smart not to arrive too late. Jimbaran is only about 20 minutes by car from Kuta and is very close to the airport, making it easy to reach by taxi or hotel shuttle.
Nusa Dua Beach: A serene and luxurious escape
Another one of Bali’s top beaches is Nusa Dua, where the sea is the calmest and safest. Located in the island’s southeast, it stretches over two kilometers with dazzling white sand and still waters. An offshore coral reef breaks the waves and protects the shore, creating a lagoon-like area—perfect for children and those less confident in the water. Nusa Dua also hosts many of Bali’s luxury resort hotels. While several have private beachfronts, there are also public areas open to everyone. Cleanliness and order are immediately noticeable, and the entire setting feels well-planned. Walking along the beach is a pleasure in itself. For those seeking more activity, nearby centers offer water sports, and the Tanjung Benoa area is just minutes away for an extra dose of adrenaline. Overall, Nusa Dua is ideal for those looking for a peaceful day of swimming and sunbathing away from the noise. The beach is about 30 to 40 minutes from the airport and is easiest to reach by taxi or private car. After enjoying the sea, you can visit nearby shopping centers or relax in one of the area’s spa resorts.
Uluwatu beaches: Padang Padang and Melasti
Padang Padang Beach, near Uluwatu Temple, is a small cove tucked between cliffs. It is reached by descending a stairway through a narrow cave and is famous for its golden sand and deep blue waters. Brought to wider fame by the film Eat Pray Love, Padang Padang is perfect for swimming and snorkeling on calm days, and a magnet for surfers when the waves rise. If you prefer somewhere quieter in Uluwatu, Melasti Beach at the southern tip of the Bukit Peninsula offers a wide stretch of white sand and stunning cliff views. Easily reached by a newly built road, it features calm, turquoise water that’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing. In recent years, some upscale venues have opened along the shore, but much of the beach remains public and untouched. As the sun sets, the light reflecting off the rocks makes the scenery even more breathtaking. These Uluwatu beaches require a bit of effort to reach, but the reward is some of Bali’s most spectacular coastal scenery.
Sanur Beach with its tranquil waters and spectacular sunrises
Located on Bali’s southeastern coast, Sanur Beach is known as one of the most peaceful and family-friendly beaches on the island. A protective reef runs parallel to the shore, keeping the water flat and gentle nearly all year round. The sea here is shallow and free of large waves, making it safe for kids to swim and play. Unlike Kuta, Sanur has a slower, more relaxed pace. In the mornings, you’ll see locals walking along the coast, taking their dogs for a stroll, or Balinese women placing daily offerings at nearby temples. Sanur has the feel of a traditional seaside town rather than a busy tourist destination. If you wake up early and head to the beach, you can watch the sun rise over the ocean—an unforgettable scene. As the sky shifts from pink to gold, the silhouette of Mount Agung, an active volcano, appears in the distance on clear days. This makes Sanur one of Bali’s most remarkable spots to watch the sunrise. Only about half an hour from the airport, Sanur is easy to reach by taxi. It is also the departure point for boats to nearby islands like Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida. Along the beach, you’ll find plenty of hotels and restaurants, as well as amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and changing facilities. Quieter and less crowded than other resorts, Sanur is an ideal stop for families and anyone looking for a peaceful seaside holiday.
On Bali’s best beaches, sometimes it’s energy and activity that define the day, and other times it’s peace and tranquility. What we’ve listed here is just a glimpse; there are countless more coves and stretches of sand waiting to be explored. Whether you’re after the excitement of a bustling crowd or the serenity of a secluded shoreline, your time on Bali’s beaches will be unforgettable. Here’s to sunny days and joyful holidays ahead!
f the long hours spent under the tropical sun and all that swimming have left you hungry, it’s the perfect time to explore Bali’s unique culinary side. Discover the spicy, vibrant flavors of the island with our guide to Balinese cuisine here.
