The Top 10 Best Beaches in Bali

Hey there travelers and welcome to my post where we will check out my top 10 best beaches in Bali this year. Bali, the Island of the Gods, is a tropical paradise renowned for its vibrant culture, lush landscapes and breathtaking beaches. This idyllic Indonesian island is home to an array of stunning beaches, each with its unique charm and attractions.

So whether you are someone who want to sit on the sand, or take a dip in the ocean or just want to sit near it and sit on a cocktail or two, then Bali has everything you could need on the one little island.

Best Beaches In Bali Map

Use this map to identify the locations of the beaches listed below:

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10 Best Beaches in Bali

As above, Bali has a beach for every need, plan or interest. So let’s have a look at my 10 best options below with something for everyone.

Check out my: Bali Travel Guide

1. Kuta Beach

Water sports, shopping, dining, nightlife

If you’re looking for the best beach in Bali, our first option here is probably the most well known and famous on the island with something for absolutely everyone here. Famed for its lively atmosphere, Kuta Beach is a popular choice for those seeking a vibrant beach scene with the long stretch of golden sand lined with beach clubs, bars, and restaurants, making it the perfect spot for sunbathing and socializing. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a buzzing hub of nightlife, with fire dancers, live music, and parties that last until dawn.

For the sports minded, Kuta Beach offers a variety of water sports and activities for adventure-seekers. Surfing is a popular pastime here, with surf schools and board rentals available for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Other activities include jet-skiing, parasailing and banana boat rides.

Kuta Beach is also home to the iconic Kuta Beachwalk, a shopping and entertainment complex that houses a wide range of fashion boutiques, restaurants and bars. Here, visitors can indulge in some retail therapy or catch a movie at the cinema after a day of sunbathing and beach fun.

Author note: On my last trip to Bali in August 2022, Kuta beach was in the midst of a massive rebuild and most of the town was a construction zone. Please comment below if you have been there more recently and let me know how it is looking.

Check out my: 10 Free Things To Do In Bali

2. Seminyak Beach

Shopping, dining, nightlife

Our next beach, Seminyak, is on of the famous beaches in Bali and definitely one for those who are more interested on what goes on near it rather than on it and offers a more upscale experience with its trendy boutiques, chic cafes and luxury resorts. This beach – which really is quite nice – is ideal for those looking to lounge in style, indulge in exquisite cuisine or enjoy a pampering spa treatment. The area also boasts an impressive array of art galleries, showcasing the works of local and international artists as well.

Beachfront dining options such as Ku De Ta and Potato Head Beach Club offer stunning ocean views and delectable dishes in a sophisticated setting whilst the rest of the area offers a diverse selection of restaurants offering cuisines from around the world.

And if you want to party, head into the main street after hours to visit the many bars and nightclubs in the area.

Check out these: 10 Best Beach Clubs in Bali

3. Nusa Dua Beach

Water sports, shopping, dining, culture

For a more family-friendly beach destination, or for those who want to spend some time on the actual beach, Nusa Dua is a top choice. With calm, crystal-clear waters, this beach offers excellent conditions for swimming and snorkeling. The white sand beaches are immaculately maintained and the surrounding area boasts a plethora of luxury resorts, fine dining options, and a world-class golf course.

Nusa Dua is also known for its water sports activities, with numerous operators offering everything from jet-skiing and flyboarding to scuba diving and sea walking. Families can also enjoy a visit to the nearby Water Blow, a natural phenomenon where waves crash against the rocky cliffs, creating impressive water plumes.

And off the beach, the Nusa Dua area is home to several cultural and historical attractions including the Museum Pasifika, which showcases art from the Asia-Pacific region and the Puja Mandala, a unique complex that houses five different religious sites in one location.

When it comes to dining, Nusa Dua offers a variety of options ranging from local Indonesian cuisine to international favorites. Many of the luxury resorts in the area feature fine dining restaurants with stunning ocean views, perfect for a romantic meal or special occasion.

Check out my: Top 10 All-Inclusive Resorts in Bali

4. Sanur Beach

Water sports, shopping, dining, culture

Sanur Beach is a serene haven away from the hustle and bustle of near-by Kuta and Seminyak with calm waters and shallow lagoons that make it perfect for a relaxing swim or a leisurely walk along the beach. The area is also rich in history, with nearby temples and traditional markets to explore.

Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty of options at Sanur Beach including windsurfing, kite surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. The calm waters also make it an ideal spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, with numerous dive shops offering courses and trips to nearby dive sites.

And as with Nusa Dua above, once you leave the beach you can then enjoy a stroll along the Sanur Beach Promenade, a picturesque walkway lined with cafes, restaurants and art galleries. The promenade also hosts a lively night marke, where visitors can sample local street food and purchase handmade souvenirs.

And finally, Sanur is home to several noteworthy cultural attractions, such as the Le Mayeur Museum which showcases the works of Belgian painter Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur and the Blanjong Temple, which features a historical pillar inscribed with ancient Balinese script.

Check out these: 10 Best Bali Wedding Destinations

5. Jimbaran Beach

Water sports, dining, culture

Jimbaran Beach is another more famous for activities out of the water and is renowned for its fresh seafood dining experiences, with a string of restaurants lining the shore. Dine with your toes in the sand as you feast on delicious grilled fish, prawns and other seafood delights. The calm waters, golden sands, and stunning sunsets make for a perfect romantic getaway.

In addition to its seafood offerings, Jimbaran is also home to several luxury resorts and spas, providing a tranquil retreat for those looking to relax and rejuvenate. The nearby Uluwatu Temple, one of Bali’s most sacred sea temples, offers a fascinating insight into the island’s spiritual culture as well.

If you do want to venture into the water however, you can of course partake in a variety of water sports here including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling. The nearby Bukit Peninsula also offers excellent surfing opportunities for those seeking a more adventurous pursuit too.

Book your trip to Bali here!

6. Uluwatu Beach

Water sports, shopping, dining, culture

Uluwatu Beach is a surfer’s paradise, with its powerful waves and dramatic cliffside setting. Home to the famous Uluwatu Temple, this beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

Aside from surfing, Uluwatu Beach is also an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life waiting to be explored. The nearby Suluban Beach, also known as Blue Point Beach, is another popular spot for surfers and offers a unique cave-like entrance to the beach.

Visitors to Uluwatu can choose from a range of accommodation options from budget guesthouses to luxurious clifftop villas with stunning ocean views. Dining options in the area include both local warungs and fine dining restaurants, ensuring a culinary experience to suit every taste as well.

Check out these: 10 Best Surf Beaches in Bali

7. Padang Padang Beach

Water sports

Located near Uluwatu, Padang Padang Beach is a hidden gem known for its turquoise waters, powdery sand and secluded atmosphere. This beach is perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat, with opportunities for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. Its picturesque setting has also made it a popular location for film and television shoots, including the Hollywood movie “Eat, Pray, Love.”

To access Padang Padang Beach, visitors must descend a steep staircase and pass through a narrow cave, adding to the beach’s sense of adventure and seclusion. The surrounding cliffs provide natural shade, making it a comfortable spot for a day of relaxation.

Surfers will also enjoy Padang Padang’s challenging waves, which are known for their barreling left-hand breaks. For a more leisurely water activity, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking can be enjoyed in the calmer waters near the shore.

8. Lovina Beach

Water sports, dining, culture

Located on Bali’s north coast, Lovina Beach is famous for its black volcanic sand and tranquil atmosphere. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling and dolphin-watching tours, which are a popular attraction in the area. The laid-back vibe of Lovina makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful escape from the busier tourist hotspots.

Lovina’s main attraction is undoubtedly its resident pod of dolphins, which can be spotted on early morning boat tours. In addition to dolphin-watching, visitors can explore the nearby hot springs and waterfalls or take a traditional outrigger fishing trip with local fishermen.

The town of Lovina itself offers a range of dining options, from casual warungs serving local cuisine to international restaurants. Accommodation in the area includes guesthouses, homestays and mid-range hotels, providing a comfortable base for exploring the region.

9. Amed Beach

Water sports, dining, culture

Amed Beach, situated on the east coast of Bali, is a haven for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The black sand beach offers an impressive underwater world including vibrant coral gardens and a variety of marine life. Amed is also home to the Japanese Shipwreck, a popular dive site that attracts divers of all levels.

In addition to diving and snorkeling, visitors to Amed can take part in traditional fishing trips, learn to cook local dishes at a cooking class, or explore the nearby Tirta Gangga Water Palace. The surrounding hills also provide excellent opportunities for trekking and enjoying panoramic views of the coastline.

Accommodation in Amed ranges from budget-friendly guesthouses to boutique hotels and private villas, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Dining options in the area include local warungs and seafood restaurants, with many establishments offering freshly caught fish and traditional Indonesian dishes.

10. Bias Tugal Beach

Water sports, dining, culture

Bias Tugal, also known as Pantai Kecil or “Little Beach,” is a secluded paradise located near the port town of Padang Bai. The beach is accessible only by a short hike down a rocky path, ensuring its serenity and seclusion. The pristine white sand, clear blue waters, and swaying palm trees make Bias Tugal the epitome of a tropical paradise. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing away from the tourist crowds.

While the beach itself offers little in the way of facilities or amenities, the nearby town of Padang Bai provides a range of dining options, shops, and accommodation. Visitors can also catch a fast boat from Padang Bai to the neighboring islands of Lombok and the Gili Islands, making Bias Tugal a convenient stopover for island-hopping adventures.

For those looking to explore the area further, the nearby Blue Lagoon and Secret Beach offer additional secluded spots for swimming and snorkeling. The local village of Padang Bai also provides opportunities to experience authentic Balinese culture and traditions.

Conclusion

There you have it, my 10 best beaches on Bali to lay on this year. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual,  let me know of your experiences here.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul