The best Bali beaches are not always the obvious ones, sometimes it’s best to get the experts to point you in the right direction.
I don’t think anything compares to sitting back with the ones you love with a drink in hand watching a sunset… unless of course, I’m sitting back with a drink in hand watching a Bali Sunset.
If you are anything like me you are probably sick and tired of going traveling only to find the tourist beaches are so overcrowded but they also look nothing as they do in photos.
Well if you’re searching for the best Bali beaches you can stop looking.
We know where the best beaches in Bali are and we know how to get to them!
You won’t find Kuta beach or any other well-known tourist hotspots. Whether you are looking for some surfing lessons, snorkeling, a quiet escape, or somewhere just to get your tan perfected we have just the beaches for your needs.
Bali Beaches
Pandang Bai and Blue Lagoon
Most people pass through Pandang Bai as a means to catch a boat to Lombok,
A cute little village complete with fantastic snorkeling and diving charters.
You could say Pandang Bai is targeted towards backpackers due to the simplistic accommodation.
In saying that you will find most people that do stay here usually extend their stay by at least a few more days.
At Pandang Bai, you will find Blue Lagoon beach, a small cove-style beach that is fantastic to snorkel.
To Find the Beach by Foot
walk left of the main beach for around 2-3 minutes.
when you find a small car park with several stalls and a sign you have found the entrance.
once there you will find 2 restaurants complete with showers, chairs and snorkeling equipment.
Location
Karangasem, East Bali
Balangan Beach
Balangan Beach is a white sandy beach stretching 200 meters with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
It also has one of the most beautiful sunsets in Bali that every person visiting this beach can’t help but fall in love with.
Located in Pecatu, southern Bali on the Uluwatu peninsula, Bangalan beach is known as one of the best surfing spots in Bali.
You will find a mixture of both local and foreign surfers soaking up the sun’s rays and catching waves.
The perfect spot for relaxing on a white sandy beach whilst enjoying the tropical atmosphere.
Just 25 minutes from Denpasar airport and 20 minutes from the Uluwatu temple, Bangalan beach is definitely one beach not to be missed on your travels.
Location
Pecatu, Jimbaran
Suluban Beach
Another beach adorned by surfers is the unmistakable Suluban beach.
Several bars and restaurants nestled on the mountain above the beach make it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Though not 100% practical for kids or general water play, Suluban beach has its very own ‘cave’ just waiting to be discovered by the magical minds of children expecting to find pirate treasures.
Location
Uluwatu, South Bali
Green Bowl Beach
One of the stand-out best beaches in Bali has be Green Bowl beach.
If you plan on just quickly dropping in to check out Green Bowl beach on your way to somewhere else I would suggest you plan a few extra hours, whilst one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali you will find yourself losing track of time very easily.
Access to the beach is made by quite a large set of stairs, though there are many steps to the beach they are also quite manageable so don’t let that discern you.
Aim your trip to Green Bowl beach around low tide, at high tide the water is against the rocks which essentially means if you get there at high tide you will not be able to access the beach.
There are rocks deeper in the water so if you do plan on wading I suggest you bring a pair of shoes.
Location
Ungasan, South Bali
Karma Beach
Karma beach is known as one of the greatest spots in Bali to go snorkeling, although there are a number of sea urchins to be wary of it is one of the most relaxing and tranquil beaches you will ever go to.
With the Karma Kandara resort just meters from the beach you can also plan your visit to indulge in a spa treatment.
Karma beach is a private beach however you can pay to access it via a gondola or to trek the 300 steps to the gorgeous sands.
The price of food and drinks happens to be fairly steep however the food is of good quality and delicious.
Location
Ungasan, South Bali
Padang Padang
Great for swimming!!!
Padang Padang Beach is a hidden treasure noted for its breathtaking beauty and tranquil settings. This peaceful and private beach is reached through a staircase that goes down through the cliffs, making it a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience. Lounging on the beach, swimming in the turquoise waves, and exploring the neighboring caves and cliffs are among the most popular activities at Padang Padang Beach.
Lounging on the beach, swimming in the turquoise waves, and exploring the neighboring caves and cliffs are among the most popular activities at Padang Padang Beach.
There is a small fee at the entrance but nothing to steer you away from one of the best beaches you will set foot on.
Complete with a bathroom and outdoor shower Padang Padang beach has everything when it comes to finding the perfect beach day.
With a number of small natural rock pools to discover and plenty of fish found throughout the waters, the beach is a fantastic place to bring your family including younger children or just to relax with your partner.
Location
Pecatu, South Kuta
Sundays Beach
Sundays Beach is a private beach accessed through Sundays Beach Club.
Professionally run with extremely knowledgeable staff, Sunday’s Beach Club offers delicious food and beverages so you can enjoy your day to the fullest whilst basking in the sun.
If you’re looking to disconnect from the world this is definitely one place to do so, with limited access via Cable car or a lot of steps, Sundays Beach Club really does make you feel like you are stranded on your own tropical oasis.
You do need to pay 600,000IDR at the entrance for 2 x towels and entry/cable car, as steep as this may seem you are then credited 300,000IDR back to use on food and drink.
Whether you’re looking for a nice little spot for snorkeling or just somewhere to laze around in a beanbag all day, Sundays Beach should be near the top of everyone’s list.
Location
Ungasan, South Bali
Dream Beach
If you’re looking for a beach that is perfect to escape to with your loved one then Dream beach should definitely be worth considering.
There is a reason they named this ‘Dream Beach” and it is also the same reason it is one of the best Bali beaches.
… This beach is absolutely stunning!
Swimming is an option here however there are large waves at times and people have been known to need rescuing.
There are strong currents in spots so please if you do not know your water safety avoid swimming in dangerous waters.
The restaurant offers shower facilities at 50,000IDR for guests
Location
Nusa Lembongan, South East Bali
Amed Beach
If you’re looking at spotting sea turtles then Amed beach might be the place to go.
Mount Agung can be seen overpowering the landscape.
Coral, fish, and sea turtles can all be seen as you snorkel through crystal-clear waters.
One of the best Bali beaches to watch both the sunrise and sunset.
In my opinion, if you are looking for somewhere to go snorkeling you cannot go past Amed Beach.
Amed beach is one of the best Bali beaches for snorkeling.
Location
Karangasem, East Bali
Gunung Payung Beach (Pantai Gunung Payung)
If you’re looking for a beach that is not too crowded, this could very well be the right choice!
The last time I went there were only a few tourists surfing and sunbathing.
The sand and the water are spectacular.
The stairs to the beach are a bit of a pain therefore not so many people go there.
Gunung Payung Beach really is as beautiful as it gets making it one of the best Bali beaches.
P.S. I also suggest if you are physically able to (seek out the Gunung Payung Temple while you are there).
Location
South Coast of Bali
Seminyak Beach, Seminyak
A Stylish and Vibrant Setting: Seminyak Beach is a stylish and bustling environment noted for its expensive beach clubs and fine dining establishments. This famous beach is ideal for soaking up the rays, sipping a beverage, and watching the world go by. Lounging on a sunbed, taking a surf lesson, and browsing Seminyak’s boutiques and shops are among the most popular activities to do at Seminyak Beach.
Location
Kuta Beach, Kuta
A Surfing Mecca: Kuta Beach is a popular surfing destination for beginners and intermediate surfers. This active beach is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a plethora of bars and clubs to keep you entertained until the wee hours of the morning. Surfing, sunbathing, and shopping at the many street vendors and marketplaces are among the most popular activities in Kuta Beach.
Location
Nusa Dua Beach, Nusa Dua
A Luxury Getaway: Nusa Dua Beach is a beautiful getaway noted for its expensive resorts, calm waves, and white sand. This tranquil and secluded beach is ideal for relaxing and escaping the noise and bustle of Bali’s busier beaches. Lounging on the beach, snorkeling in the pristine waters, and getting a spa treatment at one of the surrounding resorts are among the most popular things to do at Nusa Dua Beach.
Location
New Kuta Beach, Pecatu
A Surfer’s Dream: New Kuta Beach (formerly Dreamland Beach) is a surfer’s paradise, with huge waves and great surf conditions. This lovely beach is popular for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. Surfing, sunbathing, and relaxing with a cold drink at one of the adjacent beach clubs are among the most popular activities at Dreamland Beach.
Location
Summary
These are just a few of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, Indonesia. Bali has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking for a stylish and active environment, a surfing hotspot, a sumptuous hideaway, a hidden treasure, or a surfer’s paradise. Why not add one of these beaches to your list of “things to do in Bali Indonesia”?
A seasoned traveller and Bali enthusiast with a wealth of experience and knowledge about the island. With a passion for exploring and discovering Bali’s hidden gems, Ben has a keen eye for details and a deep understanding of Bali’s culture, history, and unique features. With years of travel experience under his belt, he has explored almost every corner of the island and can provide invaluable insights and recommendations to make your trip unforgettable. From the best beaches to the tastiest local cuisine,he’s has got you covered.