9 Best Beaches in Uluwatu You Need to Visit

Before heading to Bali, our friends recommended Uluwatu, saying it’s quieter than the well-known area of Canggu. So, we adjusted our itinerary and spent nearly a week in Uluwatu, and you know what? They were right!

Uluwatu charmed us completely, and we fell in love with the place. The roads are free of traffic jams, there are fewer people, and we love the beaches. Even as beginner surfers, we found the waves here much more beginner-friendly.

We loved it here so much that after a trip to Lombok, where we climbed Mt. Rinjani, an active volcano (one of the most incredible hikes in our life), we needed to return and enjoy Uluwatu beaches again.

So, if you’re a beach lover, this guide will help you decide which of the best beaches in Uluwatu is perfect for you. But maybe it’s all of them!

How to get around

Getting around Bali can be overwhelming, especially in Canguu and the airport area, where traffic jams frequently occur.

One of the best ways is to rent a motorbike. But if you are uncomfortable driving or traveling as a family, we highly recommend moving around with a private driver.

1. Padang Padang – Pantai Padang Padang

Padang Padang Beach was one of our favorite spots in Uluwatu. We kept coming back and enjoyed every visit to the fullest.

Padang Padang is tucked away in a small cove and is perfect for swimming and surfing. While it’s not exceptionally spacious or long like Dreamland Beach, we always found a spot for ourselves and loved the cozy feel of this beautiful beach.

The entrance to Padang Padang Beach is conveniently located along the main road, with parking available on the opposite side. After paying the entrance fee, you’ll head down 120 steps through cliff passages to reach the beach.

You can lay your towel anywhere, but avoid placing it under the sun umbrellas unless you’re prepared to pay an additional fee.

What makes this beach unique is the cliff that overhangs above the water. During low tide, you can walk underneath it, creating an incredible view and experience.

Beach Facilities

Once there, you’ll find a few surf rentals, food stalls, and simple restaurants with seating. You can buy snacks, grilled corn, and traditional Indonesian dishes here. While the prices aren’t the cheapest, they’re reasonable for a beach spot.

However, some fantastic restaurants are just a 2-3 minute drive away. We highly recommend trying Ulu Garden Restaurant!

Surfing at Padang Padang

As surf beginners, we found this spot the best we had tried in Bali. Instead of surfing the famous Padang Padang wave, we enjoyed the smaller, beginner-friendly Baby Padang Padang wave.

This wave breaks just in front of the beach, where you’ll often see plenty of surfers waiting in the water. While it can get crowded, we still enjoyed surfing here since there’s usually a spot (left break) with fewer people.

Baby Padang Padang is a gentle reef break that goes left and right. I enjoyed the left break because there were fewer people, and the ride lasted longer.

Getting back to the lineup was a bit trickier because you must paddle against waves if you ride left break. At the same time, the right break will take you close to a rip current. This rip current isn’t dangerous. It helps you return to the lineup faster without paddling against the waves.

Before going to surf, always check the surf forecast and tides. It’s essential because you can’t surf Baby Padang Padang during a low tide.

Best hotels near Padang Padang

Suarga Padang Padang – At Suarga, you can enjoy exceptional service from arrival to departure. Friendly staff, seamless check-in, and a stunningly comfortable room ensure a memorable stay.

Le Cliff Bali – This hotel offers beautiful views of the waves and reefs. The rooms are tidy, well-equipped, and comfortable.

2. Dreamland Beach

Dreamland Beach is one of the largest and most stunning beaches in Uluwatu. Dramatic cliffs surround the beach and offer fantastic views over the ocean.

The beach is only a 1-minute walk from the parking lot.

Clear and soft white sand stretches around 400 meters, so it rarely feels crowded. Therefore, you will undoubtedly have plenty of space around you. We recommend walking a bit further down the beach, where it’s quieter and there are fewer people.

The beach is suitable for swimming, but getting into the water can be challenging due to the large waves crashing on the shore. For us, it was a lot of fun! We felt like kids again, jumping into the waves and running away from them.

Near the entrance is a specific area where the waves are particularly powerful. Two large red flags indicate that swimming is prohibited in this section.

Since this beach faces west, it’s a fantastic spot to watch the sunset with a beer or coconut in hand.

Beach facilities

Dreamland Beach has one warung, and Klapa Beach Club towers above it. While soaking up the sun, you can enjoy food, snacks, or refreshing cold coconuts.

The beach club features a stunning infinity pool overlooking the sea, making it a perfect sunset spot. Its laid-back atmosphere is ideal for relaxing rather than partying.

If you’re tired of sitting on your beach towel, you can rent a sunbed for around 100,000 IDR and keep it all day.

Surfing at Dreamland Beach

Before visiting the beach, we discovered that surfing was possible there. We were looking forward to trying this new surf spot. Unfortunately, we didn’t surf here because the waves broke quite close to the shore, which looked dangerous.

Later, we saw how a big wave broke a beginner’s surfboard in half, and then he had to pay for it. It only strengthened our decision not to surf on this beach.

Perhaps such conditions were only during our visit and at other times the waves are smaller, but that does not change the fact that they break too close to the shore, which did not suit us.

If you try surfing here, you can rent the board on the beach. Dreamland is right and left hand beach break.

Best hotels near Dreamland Beach

Jumeirah Bali – This incredible luxury resort features spacious villas with private pools and beautiful outdoor areas. Guests can enjoy a variety of fun activities while the attentive staff goes the extra mile to provide excellent service.

The Elementum – Located in a peaceful area near beaches and restaurants, this hotel offers a warm welcome and friendly, attentive staff. The rooms feature an outdoor bathroom and a comfortable bed, with air conditioning positioned for optimal comfort.

3. Uluwatu Beach – Suluban Beach

Uluwatu Beach and Suluban Beach are pretty famous among travelers, and for a long time, this place is not a hidden gem. Therefore, don’t expect to enjoy this place alone or with just a few people. But this will not take the unique vibe of these beaches.

Access to these two beaches is interesting. They are located under a quite steep limestone cliff, which adds charm. To reach them, you’ll walk down narrow streets filled with people and surfers heading to the waves.

Several shops and warungs surround these streets and you can even find beach clubs here.

We took several wrong turns on the way down because it wasn’t always clear where we were supposed to go. It only takes a few minutes to walk through these streets, and don’t worry, you won’t get lost here. 

High and steep cliffs surround Uluwatu Beach. We visited during mid to high tide, so the beach was mostly underwater, and we couldn’t enjoy it as much as we’d hoped. Since this spot is a popular surfing area in Bali, there were tons of surfers around.

Since Suluban Beach is next door, we didn’t enjoy it either. We had to stand in the water even to see it.

The path to Suluban Beach, which leads through a short, low cave, was the highlight for us. It’s a fantastic way to reach the shore!

If you want to enjoy sunbathing and beach time, don’t make the same mistake as we did. Come at low tide, and you’ll be able to spread out a towel and lie on the beach.

Are big wave surfers fascinating you as they’re fascinating us? Then don’t go down to the beach and stay at some of the higher streets from where you can see all the surfers in the water.

Beach facilities

On the way to the beach, you’ll find plenty of warungs, cozy cafes, and popular beach clubs like the famous Single Fin Bali. You can grab a drink or some food with amazing ocean views—even from the pool! It’s the perfect spot to catch a beautiful sunset.

Surfing at Uluwatu/Suluban Beach

This place is a pure paradise for experienced surfers. You can find world-class waves here.

During the dry season, Suluban offers a great left-hand point break with waves ranging from 1 to 6 meters tall. The ideal time to surf here is from May to October, especially at low to mid tide.

Best hotels near Uluwatu Beach

Ria Uluwatu, Tropical Chic Hotel – This new hotel offers a fantastic location, great staff, and comfortable rooms. The breakfast is excellent. It’s perfect for couples or friends and is close to beach clubs, restaurants, and cafes.

Puri Uluwatu Villas – The hotel offers amazing style and architecture with stunning views. The pool is great, and it’s conveniently located near dining options. It has also direct beach access.

4. Green Bowl Beach

Green Bowl Beach is a hidden gem among Uluwatu Beaches. It looks like it was pulled straight from a postcard.

We visited this place early in the morning during low tide. It turned out to be a great decision, as we had the place nearly to ourselves—just one other tourist and a local woman insistently trying to sell us coconuts and snacks.

We don’t recommend coming here during high tide because it barely exists.

Green Bowl Beach is surrounded by majestic cliffs covered in lush bushes and trees, creating a wonderful environment for the local monkeys. There are a lot of them here! You’ll first need to ascend steep stairs to reach this beautiful beach.

Just a friendly reminder to be cautious, as these monkeys might be waiting for you along the way. They’re not looking for playtime; they’re more interested in your snacks, so keeping your food and valuables safely stored in your backpack or pockets is wise.

Green Bowl Beach is not ideal for swimming during low tide. There are many sharp stones, and the water is too shallow. Come during mid-tide to enjoy swimming.

This place is unique thanks to the small cave which is right under the cliff.

Inside the cave, you’ll find a shrine where people come to pray to the gods they worship. It’s a serene spot that adds a little bit of spiritual atmosphere.

Beach facilities

There are no toilets, showers or warungs on the beach. Just older women trying to sell you overpriced snacks and coconuts. If you refuse, they’ll be grumpy.

You can find toilets and two warungs with a few local dishes in the parking. However, there are no public showers or toilets on the beach.

Surfing at Green Bowl Beach

This is the perfect spot for skilled and experienced surfers. Waves can get quite big, fast, and steep. Therefore, don’t try your luck here if you’re a beginner or intermediate surfer.

Waves break to the right side. Surfing here is dangerous during a low tide because it’s a reef break, the water level in some places might be too shallow, and you can also get hit by hidden rocks.

5. Thomas Beach

Thomas Beach is one of Uluwatu’s quieter gems. It is less crowded than well-known beaches like Dreamland and Padang Padang. While it attracts fewer visitors, it still offers several warungs and sunbeds for a relaxing day by the sea.

You can leave your motorbike on a free parking right above the beach. Reaching the beach requires descending about 130 steps. The staircase could have been in better condition, so please be cautious.

At the entrance to the beach, you’ll find sunbeds, warungs, and even surfboards available for rent. Complete beginners can also book lessons with an instructor.

If you don’t need sunbeds and want to be surrounded by nature, we recommend walking to the right or left side of the beach.

The left side of the beach is only accessible for sunbathing during low tide. Compared to the other side, it has a different feel, with huge rocks surrounding you.

The right side of the beach has a lush green forest in the back, but it doesn’t provide enough shade to hide from the intense sun.

During our visit, there was a lot of seaweed on the beach, even though locals clean it regularly. So don’t be surprised when you step on it.

Thomas Beach faces west, which makes it a great spot for watching sunsets.

Beach Facilities

As I mentioned above, there are a few beach vendors and one warung. You can buy traditional Indonesian food, such as nasi goreng (fried rice), cold drinks, and fresh coconuts.

We bought stainless steel straws to help reduce pollution, and you can do the same! Plastic straws are everywhere, but reusable ones make a big difference.

There are no showers and public toilets. Some vendors offer paid toilets (10 000 IDR).

Surfing at Thomas Beach

Even though you can rent a surfboard and get an instructor, we didn’t see anyone surfing. It was because we came at the wrong time of day—low tide. Don’t make the same mistake, and plan your visit during mid to high tide if you want to ride some waves.

On Thomas Beach you can enjoy left hand break without the crowds.

6. Bingin Beach

Bingin Beach (Padai Bingin) is a wonderful 200-meter-long beach with clean white sand. Restaurants and hotels surround it on a beautiful cliff dotted with trees.

As I mentioned, this beach is right under a cliff. Therefore, coming here requires walking down many steps (around 190). But trust me, it’s worth it! It took us approximately 10 minutes from the parking area to get down to the beach.

We highly recommend visiting Bingin Beach during low tide, as there is enough space for everyone to lay down on a towel.

It gets too narrow during high tide, and it’s also more crowded because there is little space.

Regarding the best time to visit during the day, we suggest coming before sunset. This place turns out more magical in the late afternoon and evening than at any other time of the day.

Restaurants will prepare tables right on the sand with seating so you can enjoy delicious Balinese food directly on the beach while watching the sunset. The calm waves gently wash your feet, making a truly unique vibe you need to experience.

Swimming at Bingin Beach might be more complicated because the bottom is coral, not sandy. Be careful, or wear water shoes if you don’t want to cut your feet.

Beach facilities

As I mentioned, Bingin Beach is dotted with restaurants and cafes. Two of the top-rated restaurants are Kelly’s Warung and Bingis Bagus Seafood BBQ.

There are no public showers or toilets, but you can use some of the restaurant’s toilets if you purchase something.

You can rent sunbeds from 150 000 IDR for the whole day.

Surfing at Bingin Beach

Bingin Beach is the ideal spot for experienced surfers. If you’re just a beginner, we don’t recommend surfing here.

These waves are strong and produce the perfect left-hand barrel. This is no longer a hidden gem among surfers, so you can’t expect to be alone or just with a few surfers here.

Best hotels near Bingin Beach

Terra Cottages – The hotel is beautiful and well-equipped with all the essentials. The staff is exceptional—helpful, friendly, and attentive. With great food, a lovely pool, and comfortable rooms, it’s a place you would definitely want to return to.

Blue Ocean Bingin – The location offers stunning views and easy access to Bingin Beach, with surfing, beach bars, and cafes nearby. You can enjoy a swim and watch incredible sunsets from the balcony. The bed is comfortable, and all essentials are within close reach.

7. Nyang Nyang Beach

Nyang Nyang Beach is not as easily accessible as most of the mentioned beaches. Thanks to this, it is also less visited, and you will be able to enjoy a wonderful day on the beach where you will feel almost like you are on a deserted island in the middle of the ocean.

The road leading down to the beach was repaired, and it’s easily accessible by motorbike. But it still isn’t suitable for cars. The walk down takes around 15 minutes. The parking area is directly on the beach.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by beautiful ocean views and crashing waves. Nyang Nyang Beach is quite long compared to other Uluwatu Beaches, and it takes some time to walk to the end.

The best time to swim is during mid-tide when the water isn’t too shallow, and the waves are manageable.

At high tide, the waves can get large, while at low tide, the water becomes very shallow, forming only small pools where you can cool off but not really swim.

Beach Facilities

There are a few warungs, but none of them sell food; they sell cold drinks, beer, and coconuts. At the end of Nyang Nyang Beach, you’ll find a Bubble Hotel, a really unique place to stay.

You won’t find any public showers or toilets on the beach.

Surfing at Nyang Nyang

Nyang Nyang does have a few surfable waves. The main surf spot is to the right of the beach, near the entrance to a channel. It’s best enjoyed during high tide with a small swell. When conditions align, it creates a short but fun, punchy right-hander.

Best hotels near Nyang Nyang Beach

Bubble Hotel Nyang Nyang – An unforgettable experience with a remote, luxurious, and romantic atmosphere. The staff and service are outstanding, offering a true adventure in an exclusive beachside spot. This glamping experience, immersed in nature, is perfect for adventurous couples.

8. Melasti Beach

Melasti Beach, or Pantai Melasti, is one of the largest and most developed beaches in Uluwatu. It’s easily accessible by motorbike or car and provides parking almost right on the beach.

The soft white sand stretches for around 2 kilometers, and the water is one of the calmest of all the beaches. Therefore, it’s a perfect spot for families with kids or people who want to enjoy swimming without waves.

Since Melasti Beach is easily accessible, long, and beautiful, it’s one of the most popular and visited Uluwatu Beaches.

Thanks to its length, everyone can find their spot to relax without feeling crowded by other people.

Surfing at Melasti Beach

Surfing at Melasti Beach is possible, but almost no one comes here to surf. The wave is ideal for advanced surfers as it picks up a lot of swells, but not many people surf at this beach because of the poor wave quality.

Beach facilities

Public showers, toilets, and changing rooms are available for donation. If you’re craving food, you can walk along the beach and stumble upon several warungs. Beach clubs are also available for fun and delicious drinks.

We highly recommend visiting one of the most famous beach clubs in Bali – Sundays. It’s located at the western end of Melasti Beach and has a private entrance. I think you should certainly check it out.

Best hotels near Melasti Beach

Karma Kandara – The hotel has stunning views, excellent food, and a unique beachside painting workshop. The beach club is great, and while the lift is out of service, the shuttle bus works well. The poolside food is better than the beachside.

9. Balangan Beach

Balangan Beach is next to Dreamland Beach, the most northernly located of all Uluwatu Beaches.

Even though Balangan is going through development it’s still not so popular and visited, making it a perfect place to unwind and relax without the crowds.

The beach features soft white sand and offers fantastic surf opportunities for both beginners and experienced surfers.

If you want to enjoy swimming, we recommend going during high tide. The water is too shallow during low tide, and the coral bottom is exposed. Remember to bring water shoes to protect your feet.

One of the highlights of Balangan Beach is a cliff viewpoint located on the right side of the beach. It’s becoming more and more popular, and no wonder why.

Nika surprised me with an amazing date from this viewpoint. Like many others, we came here to watch the sunset, enjoy some snacks, and drink a beer. To secure the best spot, come earlier because this place can get crowded quickly.

Beach facilities

Several restaurants, warungs, and cafes are located on the beach. Sunbeds are also available for around 150,000 IDR per day. Public toilets and showers are unavailable, but many restaurants have customer toilets.

Surfing at Balangan Beach

Balangan is a left-hand reef break with multiple sections known for its long, consistent waves. The reef is relatively flat, so the waves usually don’t barrel. Because the waves are strong and big, this spot is more for experienced surfers than beginners.

There are a few surf rentals and schools on the beach.

Best hotels near Balangan Beach

Bombora Balangan Resort – Perfectly located with great surf views and a pool area ideal for sunset relaxation. The room are spotless, offering beautiful sea views. Helpful staff and a friendly owner.

La Joya Balangan Resort – The pool and restaurant are lovely, with large portions of delicious food and stunning sunset views. The room includes thoughtful amenities and is close to Balangan Beach

Best time to visit Bali

The best time to visit Bali mostly depends on your preferences. Each season has something to offer and shows a different side of the country.

Dry season

In general, the best time to visit is the dry season. Days are mostly sunny with clear skies, and there might be occasional rains. During peak months, it can get unbearably hot and humid. It’s also the most popular season, so expect higher prices and crowds.

Rainy season

The most intense rains come in December and January. Storms during the rest of the rainy season are usually short and intense. Because of this, you can have a good time even during the rainy season. But prepare for occasional floods.

Best beach clubs on Uluwatu

Bali is well-known for its incredible beach clubs. Travelers from all around the world want to enjoy the vibes that can be found only here. Uluwatu is no exception, and you can find one of the best beach clubs in Bali here.

Here is the list of the best beach clubs in Uluwatu:

1. Sundays
2. Ulu Cliff House
3. Savaya
4. Single Fin
5. Loca Sea House
6. One Eighty
7. Timbis Beach Club
8. El Kabron