If you’re dreaming of white sandy shores, clear blue waters, and the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, Bali should be at the top of your travel list. Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali offers some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Whether you’re a surfer chasing the perfect wave, a sun-seeker looking for the best beach in Bali to lounge on, or an adventurer wanting to explore the island’s hidden gems, there’s something here for everyone.
This guide will take you through the best beaches Bali has to offer, from bustling hotspots to secluded shores, so you can find your own slice of paradise.
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Table of Contents
1. Kuta Beach: The Most Happening Beach in Bali
Location: Kuta, South Bali
Best Beach for: Lively atmosphere, beginner surfing, socialising
If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and an iconic Bali beach experience, Kuta Beach is where you’ll want to start. Located near the airport, it’s one of the most accessible and popular beaches on the island.
Kuta Beach is the beating heart of Bali’s beach scene. With its wide stretch of golden sand and consistent surf, it’s ideal for beginners who want to learn how to ride the waves. The beach is lined with lively beach bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a hub of activity both day and night.
If you want to take a dip, then Kuta Beach offers relatively safe swimming conditions, though it’s always best to be mindful of the currents. Lifeguards are on duty, and the area is well-monitored, making it a popular spot for families and solo travellers alike.
2. Seminyak Beach: A Trendy Escape with a Touch of Luxury
Location: Seminyak, South Bali
Best Beach for: Luxury beach clubs, fine dining, sunset views
Just a short drive north of Kuta you’ll find Seminyak Beach, known as one of the nicest beaches in Bali. This trendy spot is a more upscale and sophisticated alternative to Kuta beach, with luxurious beach clubs, fine dining restaurants, and boutique shopping all within walking distance.
The sunsets here are nothing short of spectacular, making Seminyak Beach a popular spot in the evening. Many people take to beachfront bars to watch the sun dip below the horizon, cocktail in hand.
Swimming is safe here, and the waves are gentle, making it a great beach in Bali for swimming. Whether you’re lounging on a daybed with a cold drink or taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, Seminyak offers a slice of paradise with a touch of elegance.
3. Jimbaran Beach: The Best Beach for Seafood Lovers
Location: Jimbaran, South Bali
Best Beach for: Beachfront dining, relaxed atmosphere, family-friendly swimming
If you’re a foodie looking for the best beach in Bali to enjoy a beachfront dining experience, Jimbaran Beach is the place to go. This peaceful beach offers fresh seafood, calm waters, and spectacular sunset views.
Jimbaran Beach has a chilled atmosphere that’s perfect for families. It’s a great spot for swimming in Bali, thanks to its gentle waves and warm, clear waters, making it a pleasant spot for a dip any time of day.
But what really sets Jimbaran apart is its array of seafood restaurants that line the shore, including popular spots like Menega Café, Jimbaran Bay Seafood Club, and Made Bagus Café. As the sun sets, you can enjoy a feast of grilled fish, prawns, and more, all while your toes sink into the sand.
4. Uluwatu Beach: A Surfer’s Paradise
Location: Uluwatu, Bukit Peninsula, South Bali
Best Beach for: Advanced surfing, stunning cliffside views, secluded atmosphere
For those looking for the best beach in Bali for surfing, Uluwatu Beach is a must-visit. Located on the Bukit Peninsula, this beach is famous for its impressive waves and dramatic cliffs.
Uluwatu Beach is a world-class surfing spot, attracting surfers from around the globe. The beach is nestled at the base of towering cliffs, which provide a stunning backdrop to the rolling waves. While Uluwatu is more suited to experienced surfers due to its strong currents and reef breaks, it’s also a fantastic place to watch the pros in action.
If you’re not into surfing, the beach itself is beautiful and relatively secluded, making it a perfect escape from the busier beaches in Bali. The warm, clear waters are ideal for a refreshing dip, but it’s best to swim closer to the shore where the currents are less intense.
5. Nusa Dua Beach: The Prettiest Beach in Bali for Families
Location: Nusa Dua, South Bali
Best Beach for: Family-friendly swimming, luxury resorts, clean and safe environment
If beautiful beaches are your priority, then Nusa Dua Beach should be top of your list. This glorious stretch of coastline features pristine white sand, calm waters, and an array of luxurious resorts.
Nusa Dua Beach is one of the safest beaches in Bali, with gentle waves and shallow waters, making it perfect for swimming with children. The beach is clean and well-maintained, offering a peaceful environment that’s ideal for relaxation.
Nusa Dua is also home to some of Bali’s top resorts, making it a convenient choice for families who want easy access to amenities like pools, restaurants, and organised activities. Whether you’re building sandcastles with the kids or enjoying a romantic sunset walk, Nusa Dua offers something for everyone.
6. Padang Padang Beach: A Hidden Gem for Adventurers
Location: Pecatu, Bukit Peninsula, South Bali
Best Beach for: Surfing, exploring hidden spots, quiet relaxation
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and discover one of Bali’s hidden treasures, Padang Padang Beach is the place to go. This small but stunning beach is tucked away between cliffs, offering a more intimate and secluded experience.
Padang Padang Beach may be smaller than some of Bali’s other beaches, but it’s no less beautiful. The beach is accessed via a narrow staircase through a rocky crevice, which adds to its hidden gem appeal. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll be greeted by clear waters, soft white sand, and a quiet atmosphere.
The waves here are great for surfing, but the beach is also suitable for swimming. Because of its more secluded location, it’s often less crowded, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy Bali’s natural beauty in peace.
7. Sanur Beach: A Laid-Back Escape for All Ages
Location: Sanur, Southeast Bali
Best Beach for: Family-friendly swimming, relaxed atmosphere, sunrise views
Sanur Beach offers a quieter and more laid-back alternative to the busier beaches on the west coast of Bali. If you’re after a more relaxed vibe and safe swimming conditions, Sanur Beach could be your ideal destination.
Sanur Beach has calm, shallow waters, making it one of the best beaches in Bali for swimming, especially for families and those who prefer a gentler ocean experience. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers a long promenade that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
Sanur’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for those looking to unwind and enjoy Bali’s natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of more tourist-heavy areas. The beach is also a popular spot for sunrise, offering breathtaking views as the sun emerges over the horizon.
8. Bingin Beach: A Surfer’s Haven with a Relaxed Vibe
Location: Bingin, Bukit Peninsula, South Bali
Best Beach for: Surfing, laid-back atmosphere, cliffside views
Another gem on the Bukit Peninsula, Bingin Beach is a favourite among surfers and those seeking a more relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. This beach offers perfect surfing conditions with consistent waves and excellent surf breaks, making it a top beach in Bali for surfing enthusiasts. The beach itself is relatively small and surrounded by rocky cliffs, giving it a secluded and intimate feel.
Even if you’re not a surfer, Bingin Beach is worth a visit for its beautiful scenery and laid-back vibe. The beach is less crowded than other popular spots, and you can find charming beachfront cafes where you can relax and take in the view.
9. Balangan Beach: A Quiet Retreat with Stunning Views
Location: Balangan, Bukit Peninsula, South Bali
Best Beach for: Surfing, peaceful atmosphere, scenic views
Balangan Beach is another gem on the Bukit Peninsula, offering a quiet retreat away from the busier beaches in Bali. With its golden sand and clear waters, it’s a fantastic spot for both relaxing and surfing.
Backed by towering cliffs that provide breathtaking views of the coastline, this peaceful beach is known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great spot for surfing, with consistent waves that attract both beginners and experienced surfers.
The beach is also ideal for swimming, with clear waters and gentle waves near the shore. Balangan’s relatively remote location means it’s often less crowded, making it a perfect spot for those looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.
10. Amed Beach: A Diver’s Paradise with Rich Marine Life
Location: Amed, Northeast Bali
Best Beach for: Diving, snorkelling, experiencing local culture
If you’re into diving and snorkelling, Amed Beach on Bali’s northeast coast is a must-visit. With its colourful coral reefs and diverse marine life, Amed offers a unique beach experience that’s perfect for underwater exploration.The waters here are calm and clear, making it one of the best beaches in Bali for swimming and exploring the underwater world. The beach is surrounded by traditional fishing villages, adding to its authentic Balinese charm.
Amed is known for its reef sharks, which are generally harmless and add to the excitement of diving in this area. The beach is also home to several shipwrecks and coral gardens, making it a diver’s paradise.
11. Dreamland Beach: A Surfer’s Dream with Breathtaking Views
Location: Pecatu, Bukit Peninsula, South Bali
Best Beach for: Surfing, sunbathing, scenic sunsets
Dreamland Beach is another gem on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, featuring rugged cliffs, pristine white sand, and excellent surf. It’s a bit off the beaten path, which makes it less crowded than some of Bali’s other famous beaches.
Dreamland Beach is aptly named, as it truly feels like a slice of paradise. The beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and offers expansive views of the Indian Ocean. It’s a popular spot for surfing, thanks to its strong waves and reliable breaks. Even if you’re not into surfing, the beach is perfect for sunbathing, taking in the scenery, and enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere.
The water at Dreamland is crystal clear, making it a great spot for swimming, though the waves can be strong, so it’s important to be cautious. The beach also features some spectacular sunsets, providing a perfect end to a day of exploration.
12. Green Bowl Beach: A Secluded Paradise for the Adventurous
Location: Ungasan, South Bali
Best Beach for: Snorkelling, exploring caves, peaceful retreat
For those who love to explore hidden treasures, Green Bowl Beach is one of Bali’s best-kept secrets. This secluded beach is located on the southern coast of Bali and features emerald-green waters and unique cave formations.
Green Bowl Beach is a hidden gem that requires a bit of effort to reach, involving a descent down a long flight of stairs. However, the journey is well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with a quiet, serene beach that’s far from the crowds. The beach is named after the green algae-covered rocks that become visible during low tide, creating a picturesque landscape.
The clear waters at Green Bowl Beach are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, and the surrounding caves provide a unique spot to relax in the shade. Because of its secluded location, you’ll often find the beach nearly empty, giving you a sense of having your own private paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bali’s Beaches
Does Bali Have White Sandy Beaches?
Bali is home to several stunning white sandy beaches, especially in areas like Nusa Dua, Seminyak, and Jimbaran. These beaches are known for their pristine, soft sand, making them perfect for sunbathing, relaxing, and swimming.
Is the Ocean Warm in Bali?
The ocean in Bali is warm year-round, with temperatures typically ranging between 26°C and 29°C (79°F to 84°F). This makes it comfortable for swimming, snorkelling, and other water activities throughout the year.
Are the Beaches Safe in Bali?
Most beaches in Bali are safe for swimming, but it’s important to be aware of the conditions at each beach. Some beaches, like Nusa Dua and Sanur, have calm waters that are ideal for swimming, while others, like Uluwatu and Dreamland, have stronger currents and are better suited for experienced surfers. Always look for safety flags and pay attention to local advice regarding swimming conditions.
Can You See Sharks in Bali?
You can see sharks in Bali, particularly if you go diving or snorkelling in certain areas. The most common species you might encounter are reef sharks, which are generally harmless to humans. These sightings are rare near the shore, so there’s no need to worry about encountering sharks while swimming at the beach.
Are the Beaches Free in Bali?
Most beaches in Bali are free to access, and you can enjoy the natural beauty without any charge. However, some beaches associated with private resorts or beach clubs may require a small fee for entry or for using amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas.
Can I Swim in the Ocean in Bali?
You can swim in the ocean in Bali, and many beaches offer safe swimming conditions. It’s always a good idea to swim in designated areas, especially where lifeguards are present, and to be mindful of the currents.
Does Bali Have Clear Water Beaches?
Bali has several beaches with clear water, making them ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. Some of the clearest waters can be found at beaches like Amed, Nusa Dua, and Padang Padang, where the visibility underwater is excellent.
Does Bali Have Saltwater Crocodiles?
Bali does not have saltwater crocodiles. The waters around Bali are safe from such predators, so you can enjoy swimming and other water activities without concern.
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