11 absolute best beaches in Uluwatu Bali

If you’re in Bali wondering where all the beautiful beaches are, go to Uluwatu. After traveling in Bali for 15 years, I thought it was about time to put together a list of the many beautiful white-sand beaches the area offers.

Most of Bali’s beaches are black or grey in color because of volcanic ash from the island’s still active volcanos. Which of course can be gorgeous as well, but I have to admit that I do prefer lighter-colored sand.

Even though many are disappointed by the beaches on the Island of Gods, some who take the time to explore will say they are magical. Especially the beaches in Uluwatu.

Maybe it’s the monkeys trying to steal your things, the hunky surfers, the smiling locals selling coconuts in their makeshift shacks or the majestic temples. I don’t know how to put the magic of Bali into words, so you’d better go see it for yourself!

🐚 Pro tip >> If you don’t feel comfortable driving by yourself, you can book this affordable private driver and ask him to take you to the beaches you want to see or anywhere else on the island!

Best beaches in Uluwatu

While technically only the area around Uluwatu Temple is called Uluwatu, most travelers refer to the entire west and south side of the Bukit Peninsula as Uluwatu.

You can find them all on the map below. And make sure to check out my guide to the best places to stay in Bali for a complete island area breakdown. Uluwatu is one of my favorites.

1. Padang Padang (Labuan Sait)

Most loved beach in Uluwatu

I love Padang Padang Beach, known locally as Pantai Labuan Sait. It is one of the most famous and beloved beaches in Uluwatu after gaining international fame from being featured in the 2010 movie “Eat Pray Love”.

The beach is accessed via a narrow passage and steep staircase that cuts through a striking limestone cliff, adding a sense of adventure as you make your way down to the shore.

Once you reach the bottom, Padang Padang unfolds as a breathtaking stretch of fine white sand, enclosed by large boulders and cliffs that create a secluded, cove-like atmosphere.

The turquoise water (without much reef) is inviting and typically calm, which makes it one of my favorite beaches in Uluwatu for a swim. During low tide, the beach becomes a playground for families, with natural tidal pools and exposed coral.

PRO TIP >> Padang Padang gets very crowded, so I recommend you get there super early and then head to one of the lesser-known beaches on this list when the crowds roll in.

NOTE >> There is a 30.000 IDR entrance fee at Padang Padang Beach

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2. Balangan Beach

Best beach in Uluwatu to watch the sunset

Balangan Beach, a 550m stretch of golden sand bordered by a tall limestone cliff, isn’t just one of Uluwatu’s best beaches it’s also home to one of the island’s longest left-hander surf breaks.

This little slice of paradise attracts surfers and sunbathers from all over the world, but somehow it doesn’t feel crowded. It reminds me more of the incredible beaches around Kuta Lombok.

The north side is the swimmable part of the beach with calmer water and minimal reef. The south side is all about surfing, not great for swimming but it’s where you’ll find most of the warungs and sunbeds.

On my first visit to Bali back in early 2010, Balangan was the first beach I visited after Kuta. And what a difference it was, laidback surfer heaven vs. noisy tourist mayhem.

We stayed in one of the warungs/homestays at the beach for only $5 a night and encountered maybe ten other people. Ah, the good “old” days. Balangan has been one of my favorite beaches in Bali ever since.

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3. Thomas Beach (Padang Padang)

Best beach in Uluwatu for sunbathing

Driving back and forth from Uluwatu in the old days, we always talked about and wondered how to get to the large, deserted white beach we passed by every day. According to locals, this mysterious stretch of sand is the real Padang Padang Beach, also known as Thomas Beach because of the old homestay.

These days it’s much easier to reach the beach thanks to a newly made gravel road. You’ll see the Padang Padang Beach sign from the main road just opposite Suka Espresso. To get your feet in the sand you have to make your way down a steep set of stairs.

At high tide, the turquoise water covers the reef At low tide, however, the water disappears out to sea, exposing the reef and green moss-covered rocks.

Down on the beach, there are several warungs where you can buy coconuts, cold drinks and some simple dishes. There are also sun loungers for rent. The best place to swim is the area closest to the entrance where there is little reef in the water.

In addition to the older Thomas Homestay, you can also stay in Ari Homestay, the orange building. But one of the best value places to stay in the area is Kutuh Manak Guest House, just a short walk away from both Padang Padang beaches.

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4. Bingin Beach

The coolest beach in Uluwatu

Bingin Beach is known for its laid-back, bohemian vibe and picture-perfect scenery. Getting there involves navigating a series of narrow paths and steep steps that wind down the cliffside. I love it, but it gets incredibly crowded, especially for sunset.

The beach itself is a stretch of light sand, framed by natural limestone cliffs and dotted with unique rock formations. Come high tide, transforms Bingin into a surfer’s paradise, with consistent left-hander waves that draw a crowd of both local and international surfers.

Bingin Beach is not just about surfing; it has a burgeoning reputation as a hip destination, with a growing number of boho accommodations, from simple guesthouses to stylish villas, built along the cliff.

The beachfront is lined with casual cafes and warungs where you can indulge in fresh seafood and healthy smoothie bowls. Yoga sessions, impromptu jam sessions, and laid-back beach gatherings are common here, making it one of the best places in Uluwatu to meet other travelers.

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5. Suluban Beach

Best beach in Uluwatu to watch surfers

Suluban Beach, to the right above, is one of the most unique beaches in Uluwatu. The name ‘Suluban’ comes from the Balinese word ‘mesulub,’ which translates to ‘to crouch under,’ referring to the way you must duck under limestone caves to access the sandy shore.

At low tide, the retreating waters reveal tidal pools and a more expansive area of sand, while high tide brings the waves right up to the base of the cliffs.

This is also a well-known surf spot, offering one of the most challenging breaks in Bali, attracting experienced surfers from around the world. The smaller beach to the left is where the surfers paddle in and out.

While not ideal for casual swimming due to the strong currents and rocky seabed, the beach is perfect for those who enjoy watching the surf action.

Above the beach, a series of warungs perched on the cliff offers stunning views over the ocean. I can’t tell you how many days I’ve spent relaxing with a cold drink here while watching the surfers.

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6. Nyang Nyang Beach

Best beach in Uluwatu for paragliding

Nyang Nyang Beach is easy to reach by motorbike from Uluwatu., you’ll find it close to the entrance of Karang Boma Cliff. Take in the incredible view from the top while you mentally prepare for the long hike down to the beach.

There are two warungs next to the parking area on top of the cliff, and often cold drinks to buy at beach level. So bring snacks and be sure to have enough to drink for the hike back up. I almost passed out of the strenuous walk after a hot and humid day in the sun.

There are many shacks along the beach made of driftwood and other materials washed ashore by the tide. The coolest part about Nyang Nyang is all the seashell art hanging from the trees as you can see below.

Nyang Nyang isn’t only a beautiful stretch of sand, it’s also popular with surfers. Uncrowded rides of up to 150 meters can be had when conditions are good. But keep in mind that the wave is best suited for advanced surfers.

Remember to check the tide to pick the ideal time to visit Nyang Nyang, high tide is best for swimming.

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7. Nunggalan Beach

Best beach in Uluwatu to get away from the crowds

I love coming to Nunggalan Beach when I feel like escaping the Bali mayhem, it is one of Uluwatu’s most secluded and unspoiled beaches.

Reaching Nunggalan Beach is part of the adventure, as it requires a relatively strenuous descent on foot. You must hike down a steep and sometimes challenging trail for about 20-30 minutes. The effort, however, is richly rewarded.

The clear turquoise waters are inviting for swimming, although caution is advised due to the potential for strong currents and waves. The beach is also home to a notable shipwreck that sits close to the shore, which has become a popular photo op.

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8. Green Bowl Beach

One of the most unique beaches in Uluwatu

Green Bowl Beach is a small white-sand cove also located on the southern coast, next to the abandoned Bali Cliff Resort. It is known as one of the best surf spots on the island and is not suitable for beginners.

Access to the beach is from a long stairway through the jungle. So, unfortunately, this beach is not accessible for people with mobility issues either. Be aware of the monkeys, they will try to steal anything they can get their hands on if you get too close.

Next, to the parking area, there are three warungs selling the usual cold drinks, snacks and coconuts. If you’re in bad shape like me you’ll probably collapse at one of their tables after climbing back up all those stairs in the scorching heat.

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9. Melasti Beach

Best beach in Uluwatu to spend the whole day

Melasti Beach, located on the southernmost point in Bali, has recently become one of my favorite beaches on the island. It is definitely one of the top 3 best beaches in Uluwatu. The sand is clean, the water is crystal clear and there are several areas without reef which makes it the perfect spot for swimming, especially at high tide.

A couple of small warungs serve the usual noodles and cold drinks and you can rent the usual sun loungers and umbrellas. Remember to bargain, they quoted me 50k per hour but I ended up paying 100k half the day!

There is also a large paved area with toilets, though I did not check those out. At the moment both entrance and parking at Melasti are free.

If you’re staying on the Bukit you can easily rent a motorbike/scooter and drive here yourself. Melasti and Green Bowl Beach are located within just 10 minutes of each other, so you should check out both while you are there!

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10. Pandawa Beach

Best beach in Uluwatu for families

Pandawa Beach, located on the Bukit Peninsula in Uluwatu, Bali, is a haven known for its striking blue waters, soft white sand, and serene atmosphere that captivates both locals and tourists alike.

Pandawa was once considered a secret beach, hidden at the bottom of large limestone cliffs. However, in recent years, the way has been opened up, and the beach is now easily accessible via a paved road that cuts through the towering cliffs, revealing panoramic views of the Indian Ocean as you descend.

Upon arrival, you are greeted by impressive carved statues set into the cliffs, depicting characters from the Mahabharata epic, which adds a cultural touch to the beach’s entrance.

The gentle, rolling waves make it one of the best beaches in Uluwatu for swimming. Local vendors offer these water sports equipment for rent, alongside parasols and sun loungers for those looking to unwind by the sea.

With its relatively calm waters and wide stretches of sand, Pandawa Beach is family-friendly and suitable for visitors of all ages. It’s also a popular spot for paragliding, offering an exhilarating way to take in the breathtaking coastal views.

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11. Dreamland Beach

Best beach in Uluwatu for swimming

Dreamland Beach, once a hidden and near-deserted stretch of sand in the Uluwatu area, has transformed over the years into one of the island’s most well-known tourist destinations.

Originally discovered by surfers back in the 1970s, Dreamland Beach was initially prized for its perfect waves and untouched natural beauty. The beach’s name itself alludes to the idyllic paradise it once was.

In recent years, Dreamland has seen significant development, with the establishment of the Pecatu Graha and New Kuta Beach resort complex, which includes a golf course, hotels, and residential areas.

This development has made the beach more accessible and has brought with it an influx of amenities. However, it has also altered the original laid-back vibe. So while Dreamland is one of the best beaches in Uluwatu, I rarely go there anymore.

Tips for visiting Uluwatu beaches

Visiting the beaches in Uluwatu can be an unforgettable experience. There are just a few things you should keep in mind:

1. Watch the tides: Most of the beaches in Uluwatu are best enjoyed at mid-tide when more sand is exposed while the water is still deep enough to swim. At low tide, you have to walk across the reef to get to the water. So check tide schedules before you go.
2. Wear proper footwear: Some beaches in Uluwatu are accessible via steps or rocky paths, so wear hiking sandals or shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces if you’re not a pro flip-flop wearer like myself.
3. Bring sun protection: The sun can be intense in Bali, even more so than you’d think. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the harsh UV rays.
4. Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated in the tropical heat, especially if you plan to spend the whole day at the beach. To avoid adding to the plastic waste issue, bring a filtered water bottle.
5. Respect the temples: Uluwatu is known for its seaside temples, so dress modestly and follow local customs when visiting these sacred sites. Also, watch out for the daily offerings often placed on the beach and warung entrances.
6. Be cautious of strong currents: The ocean in Uluwatu can have strong currents, so be careful when swimming. Even when it looks calm you can be swept away from shore.
7. Keep valuables safe: Petty theft can happen, as in any tourist destination. So always keep an eye on your belongings. When going swimming, I usually leave my stuff at one of the warungs and buy something from them before or after. I was almost robbed once on Selong Belanak in Lombok.
8. Explore hidden gems: The most popular beaches in Uluwatu, such as Padang Padang and Bingin, get super crowded. So don’t be afraid to explore off the beaten track.
9. Water toys: If you’re planning to surf and don’t have your own board, you can easily rent one on the beach. Some of the beaches also rent our snorkeling gear and canoes.
10. Take your trash: Always clean up after yourself to maintain the pristine nature of the beaches. Some beaches may not have trash bins, so be prepared to take your rubbish with you back to your accommodation.
11. Cash is king: Bring cash as most of the beach warungs, stalls and entrance fees do not accept credit cards.
12. Stay safe: Keep an eye out for natural hazards such as sharp coral, sea urchins, or jellyfish. I have even encountered sea snakes at Padang Padang several times.
13. Enjoy the sunset: Uluwatu beaches offer some of the most stunning sunsets. Plan to stay in the evening to witness the spectacular colors over the Indian Ocean. Some of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen have been at Balangan Beach.

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