Bali's beaches change a lot from one coast to the next. In the south, white-sand coves sit at the bottom of limestone cliffs. The west coast has darker sand and serious surf. Sanur and Nusa Dua, on the south-east side, have calm water protected by reefs, and the far east has black sand and some of the island's best snorkelling. Here's where to go for what.
Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula
The Bukit Peninsula, at Bali's southern tip, has the island's most dramatic beaches. Most are reached by steps down the cliffs, so pack light.
- Padang Padang: a small cove reached through a narrow gap in the rocks. It's popular, so go early.
- Bingin: steep steps down the cliff to surf, sunset and warungs built into the hillside.
- Suluban: tucked below the cliffs at Uluwatu and reached through a gap in the rocks. It's mostly a surfers' beach, best at low tide.
- Melasti: wide white sand, reached by a road cut through the limestone cliffs.
- Balangan: a long curve of sand with surf and a good sunset.
Finish the day at Uluwatu Temple for sunset and the kecak fire dance.
Canggu and Seminyak
The west coast is where Bali surfs. The sand is darker and the waves are bigger, and the sunsets are the main event.
- Batu Bolong: a popular spot for beginner surf lessons, and busy at sunset.
- Echo Beach: better suited to experienced surfers, with sunset dinners along the sand.
- Berawa and Seminyak: beach clubs, sunsets and a livelier crowd.
Currents along this coast can be strong. Swim between the flags where lifeguards are on duty.
Sanur and Nusa Dua: calm water
For easy swimming, head to the south-east. Sanur has calm water inside the reef, a long beachfront path and sunrise rather than sunset, and it's where the fast boats leave for Nusa Penida. Nusa Dua is a resort area with calm, clear water that suits families and anyone who wants a quiet swim.
Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida, a boat ride from Sanur, has some of Bali's most famous views.
- Kelingking Beach: the T-Rex shaped headland. The path down is steep and challenging, and the surf below is often too rough for swimming.
- Diamond Beach: on the east coast, with steps cut into the cliff down to the sand.
- Crystal Bay: good for a swim and snorkel when the water is calm.
East Bali: Amed
Amed, on the east coast, has black sand, calm mornings and good snorkelling and diving close to shore. The USAT Liberty wreck at nearby Tulamben is one of Bali's best-known dive sites.
Beach safety
- Rip currents are common on the west and south coasts. Swim between the red and yellow flags at patrolled beaches.
- Reef and rocks are exposed at low tide on many beaches, so reef shoes help.
- The sun is strong all year. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and plenty of water for cliff steps.
See them with us
Our hosted Bali trip takes in Canggu, a boat day to Nusa Penida and sunset at Uluwatu, with a small group and a host the whole way. Planning your own week? Start with our 7-day Bali itinerary.
