Best beaches in Bali

The beaches are the main attractiveness of Bali and not only there are many in the whole island, but also they are very varied between yes and each one offers different activities for the visitors. I tell you which are the best spas that you can visit in your trip.

Matías Rodríguez

Matías Rodríguez

9 min read

Best beaches in Bali

Personas cerca de la playa|© Khairul Leon

Although Bali is a multifaceted destination, with a wide cultural offer and many natural activities, the main attractiveness of the island is in its beaches. These spas, that are usually paradisiacal, of golden sand and bathed by turquoise waters, are very different among them for the environment that surrounds them and also for the aquatic activities that you will be able to do in each one of these places.

Among the best activities that you can make in Bali are to visit the beach of Nusa Lembongan, in Nusa Penida, to know the beach of Jimbaran, to cross the golden sands of Padang Padang, to contemplate the luxury that surrounds to the beach of Seminyak, to marvel with the tranquility of Legian and to cross Batu Bolong, a paradise for the surfers located in Canggu, very near the peninsula of Bukit.

1. Beaches of Nusa Lembongan

nusa lembongan|©victory one
nusa lembongan|©victory one

Nusa Lembongan, one of the three jewels that conform the archipelago of Nusa Penida, is presented like the perfect tourist destination for an exciting excursion of a day from Bali. To arrive to this paradisiacal island, that contains several beaches, you will be able to participate of an organized tour or to arrive by your account in a tour in boat of approximately two hours.

One of the gems that awaits the visitors is the Jungutbatu beach, characterized by its calm bays and crystalline waters. This idyllic corner presents itself as the perfect setting for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, as it is home to a marine diversity in line with the region's coral reefs and offers areas adapted for all levels of experience.

Another must-see site on Nusa Lembongan is the picturesque Mushroom Bay, so named for the mushroom-shaped corals that adorn its waters. This crescent of dazzling tropical beauty offers visitors an unforgettable visual spectacle. Its turquoise waters and lush surroundings create a perfect setting for basking in the sun, exploring marine life or simply relaxing on the beach in one of Bali's best spots.

Participate in an excursion to Nusa Penida

2. Jimbaran Beach

Jimbaran Beach|©www BALI .com
Jimbaran Beach|©www BALI .com

The serene Jimbaran Beach lies south of the airport, in the direction of Denpasar to Nusa Dua, unfolding a stretch of calm and luxurious coastline that has gained popularity among water sports enthusiasts such as windsurfing, body surfing and sailing. This coastline stretches along 4 kilometers of soft sand and is distinguished by its clean, calm waters. What makes Jimbaran even more attractive is the natural protection provided by a coral reef that softens the force of the waves.

Although Jimbaran is known for its gentle waters, those seeking more challenging currents can head to the surf breaks near the airport. These spots offer exciting challenges for surfers looking for more intense experiences. The diversity of options makes Jimbaran a versatile destination that caters to both relaxation seekers and adventurous thrill-seekers.

In addition to its natural features, Jimbaran is famous for its exquisite fresh seafood dishes. The beach is home to a wide variety of sophisticated restaurants and hotels that offer unparalleled dining experiences. Also, by its proximity, it is an ideal place to spend the afternoon before discovering the sunsets in Uluwatu, especially if you have planned to visit Bali in summer.

Join a sunset tour in Uluwatu

3. Beach of Padang Padang

Padang Padang Beach|©Elaine Peterson
Padang Padang Beach|©Elaine Peterson

The picturesque Padang Padang Beach, considered one of Bali's coastal jewels, captivates visitors with its white sand and turquoise waters. Strategically located near the Uluwatu road, this beach lies at the mouth of a serene stream, adding a unique dimension to its natural appeal. The access to this paradisiacal corner requires a walk that meanders through a temple, which adds a cultural dye to the experience.

Padang Padang is presented as one of the small hidden coves of Bali that does not disappoint. Its enchantment resides not only in the beauty of its surroundings, but also in the sensation of discovery when acceding to her. The beach offers a quiet refuge away from the hustle and bustle, where visitors can immerse themselves in the serenity of the waters and relax on the soft sand.

In addition to its crystal clear waters and silky sand, Padang Padang is known for its relaxed atmosphere and connection with nature. The presence of the temple on the way to the beach adds a significant cultural element, providing visitors with an experience that embraces both natural beauty and local spirituality. Also, this beach is famous because it has been one of the filming locations for the movie Eat, Pray, Love.

Join a Come, Reza, Ama Tour

4. Seminyak Beach

Seminyak Beach|©Marco Vannozzi
Seminyak Beach|©Marco Vannozzi

If you want to visit one of the most luxurious and exclusive places in Bali, you can't miss Seminyak Beach. With an extensive strip of white sand, this beach serves as scene for a beach experience that combines the luxury with the natural beauty. Along the coastline you will see jewelry stores, sophisticated restaurants and five-star hotels, creating an elegant atmosphere.

In addition to its exclusive atmosphere, Seminyak is famous for its sunsets. The warm and golden tones that tint the horizon at the end of the day constitute a spectacle that attracts tourists and locals alike, especially if you plan to visit Bali in December or during the months of the summer, which is when the skies are clear.

Also, Seminyak is very near the temple Tanah Lot, reason why you will be able to combine a visit to this religious building, which is one of the most important of Bali, with an afternoon of relaxation in the beach, to the wait of the sunset.

Join a tour for the temple of Tanah Lot

5. Beach of Sanur

Sanur beach|©Featherstone Drax
Sanur beach|©Featherstone Drax

As the most outstanding beaches for its natural landscape, the beach of Sanur is located in the south of Bali and is defined as an aquatic Eden and an exceptional destination for lovers of snorkeling and diving. This extensive family beach, bordered by palm trees, offers a perfect setting to explore the wonders of the Balinese seabed.

For those traveling with children, Sanur Beach presents itself as a perfect choice. Its calm waters and the serenity that prevails throughout the day on the beach legends make this place a family oasis. In addition, the coastline is dotted with hotels that blend harmoniously with the landscape, offering visitors accommodation options ranging from exclusive and luxurious to more economical options.

Another fascinating activity featured in the vicinity of Sanur is the Bali Kite Festival, held from May to September just two kilometers away. This colorful and vibrant event adds a cultural and festive tinge to the Sanur experience, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the sky filled with artistic kites and enjoy the joyful and boisterous atmosphere that characterizes this event.

In addition, if you want to live a unique experience, you will be able to cross the coast in a boat with crystal bottom, in an activity that is usually included in the list of the best cruises of Bali.

6. Beach of Kuta

Kuta beach|©Kalyan Neelamraju
Kuta beach|©Kalyan Neelamraju

The beach of Kuta, located in the peninsula of Bukit, is recognized like the epicenter of the nocturnal life and the amusement in Bali. Known as The Beach of the Party, Kuta is a coastal region that offers several kilometers of sand where the symmetrical waves of the Indian Ocean disappear in the distance. In this animated zone, where you will find the best nocturnal activities of Bali, you will be able to take a drink, to participate in a gastronomical excursion or to visit a discotheque.

The frenetic energy that characterizes Kuta turns it into a magnet for those that look for amusement and emotion in the Balinese coast, and also it is one of the favorite destinations of the young people, who generally choose this beach to spend Christmas in Bali or the festive days. Besides finding parties at all hours of the day, there also you will be able to make purchases and to practice a wide variety of aquatic sports, from the surf to the diving.

Nevertheless, besides its animated diurnal and nocturnal life, Kuta also offers options for those that look for relaxation and personal care. The beach is home to a multitude of spa centers, where you can enjoy rejuvenating treatments and sea breeze-based treatments.

Book a gastronomic tour

7. Legian Beach

Legian Beach|©madewap
Legian Beach|©madewap

Legian, Kuta's peaceful neighbor, presents itself as a haven of tranquility compared to its lively counterpart. The serenity that characterizes Legian is largely due to the absence of the bustling road along the shore, allowing visitors to take refuge in the silence that emanates from this small coastal gem.

The lack of tourist crowds compared to other beaches contributes to the local calm. There you can enjoy quality facilities and various options for water sports, from surfing to diving. At the beach stalls, you can also rent equipment and hire expert local guides who will accompany you on a tour of the coastal waters.

The offer is varied, and the relaxed atmosphere will invite you to explore the waters with total tranquility, already be from a comfortable lounger in the beach or from the deck of some of the best cruises of Bali that cross the zone.

Likewise, to experience the richness of this beach, also you will be able to witness the sunset in Legian, a very traditional activity in the island and that usually is part of the best tours of Bali.

8. Beach of Soka

Soka beach Bali|©Bali Blog
Soka beach Bali|©Bali Blog

In spite of its modest size, the beach of Soka stands as a hidden jewel in the region of Denpasar. Its particular enchantment resides in its singularity: it is a rocky beach with sand of dark tonality, a marked contrast with the characteristic beaches of the island. In addition, its small size gives Soka an intimate and peaceful atmosphere that distinguishes it from other Balinese coasts.

The serenity of the beach of Soka is palpable in each corner of this coastal refuge. Its location, far from the urban bustle, turns it into one of the favorite places of the tourists who look for tranquility and, in addition, it is in the proximities of the picturesque town from where the cruises leave towards the island of Java, which offers him, also, a picturesque and functional dye to this beach.

The palette of colors of Soka, with its rocks and dark sand, creates a visually impressive stamp that has its origin in the mouth of the volcano located in the summit of Monte Batur. A strange combination of tectonic movements and seismic rearrangements turned this corner of Bali into one of the only beaches of volcanic sand of the region.

It reserves a tour for the Monte Batur

9. Beach of Gili Trawangan

Gili trawangan.|©Angelo Barra
Gili trawangan.|©Angelo Barra

Gili Trawangan, known as one of the most beautiful islands of Indonesia, dazzles visitors with the beauty of its beaches, especially at its eastern end. This paradisiacal corner is also an ideal place for snorkeling and diving lovers, since its waters offer easy access to transparent sectors where a wide variety of marine life can be spotted, such as colorful fish, coral reefs, sea turtles, parrot fish and manta rays.

The beach of Gili Trawangan not only delights with its underwater wonders, but also transforms at sunset. As the sun sets, the coastline fills with lively street stalls offering the opportunity to enjoy local food and drinks with music playing in the background. The atmosphere of Gili Trawangan is also a captivating mixture of bohemian style with luxurious dyes, which creates an atmosphere that attracts travelers from all the corners of the world.

This beach, that usually is protagonist of the best tours of complete day from Bali, also offers an interesting gastronomical experience in front of the sea, that you will be able to live in the restaurant Scallywags. Situated practically above the waves, this world-famous spot offers a perfect combination of culinary delights and unmissable views, allowing diners to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Gili Trawangan at dinnertime.

10. Batu Bolong Beach

Batu Bolong: surf's up!|©Woody Wade
Batu Bolong: surf's up!|©Woody Wade

Batu Bolong stands out as a paradise for surf lovers and a place that combines the essence of Balinese culture with tempting gastronomic options. Recognized as the best-known area of Canggu, this beach attracts surfers from all over the world thanks to its ideal waves for the practice of this sport.

In addition to its surfing appeal, Batu Bolong is home to the Buddhist complex of Pura Batu Mejan, distinguished by its bizarre pagoda-style temple. This sanctuary adds a spiritual tinge to the coastal environment, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore Bali's cultural and religious richness amidst the natural beauty of the beach.

The experience in Batu Bolong will not be complete without indulging in its incredible coffee, and for that, Monsieur Spoon and Betelnut Café are obligatory stops. These establishments, known for their excellence in the art of coffee, will offer you the opportunity to enjoy an aromatic cup in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere of Canggu.

Book a surf lesson in Canggu