Bali is not just about culture and temples, but also about the stunning beaches scattered across the island.
From soft white sand to dramatic high cliffs, every beach in Bali has its own charm.
In this article, we will discuss the names of popular beaches in Bali, the best destinations to visit, the beaches with the clearest water, the best places to enjoy the sunset, and complete recommendations for your vacation.
List of Popular Beaches in Bali that You Must Visit
Bali boasts dozens of stunning beaches, both well-known and lesser-known. Here are some popular beaches that are often used as tourist destinations:
- Kuta Beach: Famous for its waves and suitable for beginner surfers.
- Seminyak Beach: Quieter than Kuta, with beach clubs and beachfront restaurants.
- Sanur Beach: Ideal for watching the sunrise and enjoying a relaxing atmosphere.
- Jimbaran Beach: Famous for its grilled seafood by the beach.
- Nusa Dua Beach: Suitable for families, with calm waters and complete facilities.
- Padang Padang Beach: Small but exotic, popular with surfers.
- Dreamland Beach: White sand and big waves, a favorite spot of surfers.
- Melasti and Pandawa Beach: Famous for its cliff access road and dramatic views.
Where to Go in Bali? Recommendations for the Best Vacation Areas
When vacationing in Bali, selecting an area that suits the purpose of your vacation is crucial. Here are some favorite areas:
- Uluwatu & Bukit Peninsula - perfect for beach lovers, surfing, and sea cliff views.
- Ubud - the cultural and natural center of Bali, away from the beach but offering spiritual experiences and green nature.
- Canggu is a contemporary destination featuring a blend of beaches, aesthetically pleasing cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan - small islands with pristine beaches and the best snorkeling/diving spots.
- Amed & Tulamben - perfect for diving and enjoying black sand beaches with a local atmosphere.
By selecting the right area, your vacation will better align with your expectations and travel style.
Beaches in Bali with the Clearest Water
If you're looking for beaches with crystal-clear water, these locations are worth a visit:
1. Nusa Dua Beach
- Advantages: Famous for its clear water, white sand, and complete resort facilities.
- How to get there: About 30 to 40 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport via Ngurah Rai By Pass Road and Bali Mandara toll road. Easy access by rental car or motorbike.
2. Blue Lagoon Beach (Padangbai)
- Advantages: Popular snorkeling spot with crystal clear water and beautiful coral reefs.
- How to get there: About 1.5 to 2 hours from Denpasar via Ida Bagus Mantra Road towards Padangbai Harbor. Good access for private cars.
3. Bias Tugel Beach
- Excellence: A small hidden beach near Padangbai, with obvious water and a quiet atmosphere.
- How to get there: From Padangbai Harbor, continue walking for about 15 to 20 minutes along the downhill trail.
4. Crystal Bay (Nusa Penida)
- Advantages: Crystal clear water, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
- How to get there: Take a fast boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida (about 45 minutes), then continue by motorbike or car for 30 to 40 minutes to the west of the island.
5. Virgin Beach (Perasi)
- Pros: A hidden beach in Karangasem with a natural atmosphere and clear water.
- How to get there: About 2.5 hours from Denpasar. From Candidasa, take the direction to Perasi village, then continue through a small road downhill to the beach.
These beaches are perfect for those who want to swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy the panoramic view of the glass-clear sea.
Best Places to Enjoy Sunset on Bali Beach
Sunset in Bali is an experience not to be missed. Here are some beaches with the best sunset views:
1. Kuta Beach
- Excellence: Classic Balinese sunset with silhouettes of surfers on the horizon.
- How to get there: Only 15 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport via Jalan Raya Kuta. Plenty of public transportation and easy road access are available.
2. Tanah Lot Beach
- Excellence: The silhouette of the temple, set in the middle of the sea, makes the sunset view magical.
- How to get there: About 1.5 hours from Denpasar. Good road access via Jalan Raya Canggu or Jalan By Pass Tanah Lot.
3. Jimbaran Beach
- Pros: Enjoy the sunset while eating seafood by the beach.
- How to get there: 20 to 30 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport via Uluwatu Road. Many taxi or rental vehicle options.
4. Batu Belig and Petitenget Beach (Seminyak)
- Advantages: A quieter atmosphere than Kuta, perfect for dramatic sunset photos.
- How to get there: About 30 to 40 minutes from Denpasar via Sunset Road. Can be reached by motorcycle or online taxi.
5. Uluwatu Beach
- Excellence: A view of the sunset from the top of the cliff, complete with a Kecak Dance performance.
- How to get there: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour from Ngurah Rai Airport via Uluwatu Road. It is recommended to take a private vehicle or rent a motorbike.
The best time to come to Bali beach to enjoy the sunset is around 17:30 to 18:30 WITA.
Tips for a More Comfortable Bali Beach Vacation
To make your experience on Bali's beaches more enjoyable, consider the following tips:
- Use ocean-friendly sunblock (reef safe) to protect your skin and coral reefs.
- Avoid crowded hours if you want a quieter atmosphere, come early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Bring enough cash, especially when visiting more remote beaches.
- Wear comfortable footwear, especially for beaches with coral reefs.
- Keep clean, always bring your own trash bag.
If you want to enjoy a wide range of natural beauty, from white sands to stunning sunsets</a>, Bali has it all. <Whether you're an ocean lover, photographer, or just want to relax, Bali's beaches are ready to give you an unforgettable experience.
