As an island (and a part of an archipelago for that matter), Bali is no stranger to a beach. But some of its shoreline offerings stand head and shoulder above the rest, no matter whether you’re searching for a sunset drink spot, or a perfect point break. We’ve found 8 of the best beaches in Bali worth taking a dip at.
Avid divers would consider Amed to be one of Bali’s best beaches. Sitting on the East Coast of the island, this picturesque village is considered to be the island’s dive epicentre. From the shoreline you can grab a boat to one of many surrounding dive sites, including the USAT Liberty shipwreck, a ship struck by a Japanese torpedo during WWII, which is today frequented by the resident Napoleon wrasse (it’s a fish).
Another of Uluwatu’s dreamier beach destinations in Balangan. With its somewhat unpredictable currents and strong waves it’s a popular place to visit for surfers, but less suited to swimmers. But even if you splash around the shallows, you’ll still appreciate the beach’s picturesque combination of crystalline waters and powder white sands.
Canggu’s main attraction can be found at the end of Batu Bolong. With its volcanic black sands and enduring popularity, this place isn’t Bali’s most beautiful beach but it remains one of the island’s most popular. It’s crammed with warungs and their adjoining beanbags (perfect for taking in the sunset, Bintang in hand), plus it’s home to one of Bali’s best longboard waves.
You’ve no doubt heard of this much adored Bukit Peninsula addition. Sure it’s no easy feat to get done the hundreds of concrete steps to the shoreline, but what awaits you is well worth the effort. Picture soft white sands, crystalline waters, and easy access to the waves. Not to mention a handful of beach bars, and a nightly beachside seafood fish barbecue to keep you well fed all the while.
Undoubtedly one of Bali’s best beaches, Green Bowl Beach is also one of the island’s best kept secrets. The secluded swimming spot stretches just 30 metres, and sits down the bottom of a 75-metre cliff. The Ungasan resident is an ideal option for those who crave seclusion with the steep flight of stairs keeping the crowds at bay. Just be wary of the monkeys who frequent the car park. They’re renowned thieves.
The fishing village of Jimbaran today remains the stronghold of the seafood trade, but is also now heaving with luxury resorts. If you stay at one of these you’ll be treated to easy access to the beach out front – where white sands, seaside beach barbecue, and easy swimming options await.
Uluwatu’s enduring swell and dreamy beaches have long attracted surfers in their droves, with Padang Padang no exception. Down steep steps carved from rock you’ll find aquamarine waters and an adored wave where you can learn to surf, and explore the rock pools at low tide. Or take it easy, grabbing a coconut from the market stalls which line the shore.
Forget about Kuta – if you’re craving a family-friendly stretch not far from the airport stick with Seminyak Beach. Again this is not the most picturesque strip of sand in Indonesia, but it’s perfect for sunset drinks (especially if you have the kids in tow). You’ll also find some of the island’s most popular beach bars perched on the water’s edge here, like Ku De Ta, and the seriously stylish Desa Potato Head.
