Discover Bali’s Most Stunning Beaches
Bali is blessed with a plethora of beautiful beaches, offering diverse experiences for visitors. While white sand might not be as common, the island’s volcanic history results in breathtaking tan and gray beaches that serve as perfect locations for relaxation.
The best beaches for swimming in Bali tend to be on the Bukit Peninsula, while the premier surfing spots are located along the southwest coast. However, Bali also boasts numerous idyllic coves perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying stunning sunsets.
Kuta Beach and Seminyak Beach
Best beach for sunsets
Tourism in Bali began at Kuta Beach, which continues to attract beach lovers with its exceptional surf breaks and legendary sunsets. The vibrant atmosphere includes wandering hawkers selling refreshing drinks and snacks. Here, you can rent surfboards, lounge chairs, and umbrellas, or simply relax on the soft sand as the sun dips below the horizon.
Kuta Beach seamlessly transitions into Legian and then Seminyak. Due to limited road access, Seminyak tends to be less crowded compared to Kuta, providing a more serene environment. However, caution is necessary as water conditions can be unpredictable, especially at the northern end.
Jungutbatu Beach
Best beach for day-trippers
Jungutbatu Beach, with its lovely arc of white sand and clear blue waters, offers stunning views of the Gunung Agung volcano. The seawall walkway is ideal for leisurely sunset strolls, surrounded by bobbing boats that enhance the picturesque setting.
Although the beach accommodates some boat traffic, it remains a great spot for basking in the sun, despite previous issues with seaweed odor fading as tourism increases in the area.
Jimbaran Beach
Best beach for foodies
Jimbaran Beach features a clean 4km arc of sand and a variety of dining options. The bay, protected by a coral reef, ensures calmer waters, making it perfect for swimming and bodysurfing.
As the sun sets, seafood restaurants set up tables on the beach, providing a unique dining experience where you can savor barbecued fish while enjoying breathtaking views of planes landing at Ngurah Rai International Airport.
Labuan Sait Beach
Best beach for surfing
Known for its incredible surf, Labuan Sait Beach is a small cove close to Ulu Watu. This beach attracts experienced surfers seeking the famous Padang Padang reef break, known as the Bali pipeline for its impressive hollow tubes. While surfers flock here for thrilling waves, Labuan Sait also boasts a lively atmosphere during Saturday night beach parties.
Yeh Leh Beach
Best beach for absolute wild solitude
Yeh Leh Beach is a hidden gem stretching nearly 10km along the eastern coast from Pekutatan. This wild beach, featuring scattered boulders and gray volcanic sand, remains largely undeveloped, allowing visitors to roam for miles while enjoying scenic sea views and exploring beach breaks.
Sanur Beach
Best beach for strolling or jogging
Sanur Beach curves southwest for over 5km, providing a paved promenade perfect for families and joggers. The beach environment is clean and tranquil, ideal for those seeking serenity away from the busier tourist areas. Offshore reefs contribute to gentle waves, perfect for a family-friendly beach experience while admiring beautifully adorned jukung outrigger fishing boats lining the shore.
Pemuteran Beach
Best beach for snorkeling
Although Pemuteran Beach has gray-brown sand, its idyllic setting surrounded by lush green hills and blue waters makes it stunning, especially during sunset. This beach is known for its accessible snorkeling and diving opportunities, with equipment readily available for rental. Snorkelers can enjoy vibrant coral formations and colorful fish just steps from the shore.
Blue Lagoon Beach
Best beach for secluded sunbathing
Located about a quarter-mile walk from Padangbai, Blue Lagoon Beach is a tranquil cove catching the early sun. Its 60m stretch of sand, devoid of direct road access, offers a peaceful retreat away from crowds. It’s the perfect spot for sunbathing and soaking up the natural beauty of Bali.
Amed Beach
Best beach for diving
Amed Beach, located on Bali’s quieter north coast, offers a tranquil escape from the party scene. The picturesque setting features the majestic Agung volcano as a backdrop, paired with gentle waves lapping against vibrant reefs. Amed is renowned as Bali’s dive hotspot, particularly for the USAT Liberty shipwreck, attracting scuba divers and snorkelers alike to its diverse marine life.
Green Bowl Beach
Best beach for watching wild surf
Green Bowl Beach, situated on the southern edge of the Bukit Peninsula, can be accessed via a steep descent of 300 steps. This beautiful destination is typically uncrowded during weekdays, making it an ideal escape. Moreover, the beach is known for its thrilling surf and pristine environment, complemented by interesting caves and vibrant marine life.
Pantai Lebih
Best beach for a break from Ubud
Pantai Lebih is located approximately 30 minutes from Ubud, featuring glittering mica-infused sand. The beach is known for its relaxing atmosphere, complete with fishing boats lining the shore and enticing smells of barbecued fish wafting from beachside cafes, making it an excellent lunch spot.
Balangan Beach
Best beach for pure tropical beach bumming
Offering a glimpse of Bali’s Wild West charm, Balangan Beach features a long strand bordered by rocky cliffs and dotted with sun umbrellas. It provides a laid-back atmosphere with local cafes and bars, making it a favorite among beach bums seeking relaxation and a taste of the island’s natural beauty.