Set along the Bali’s southern peninsula, Uluwatu is known for its dramatic cliffs, world-class waves, and some of the best beaches on the island. Beach lovers and surf enthusiasts flock to the alluring destination. From the movie-famous Padang Padang Beach to the surfing hotspot Suluban Beach, here are the best beaches in Uluwatu!
Uluwatu’s picture-perfect waves travel thousands of miles to reach the renowned island. It’s important to be aware that the waters around Bali often feature strong currents and intense tide shifts. Consequently, not every beach is suitable for swimming. Some beaches, like Padang Padang, are better than others for swimming. Whether you’re looking to surf, swim, or just relax, Uluwatu has a beach for every type of traveler. Make sure to have to small cash for parking and beach entrance fees. The fees varies, but entry fees are generally around 15,000 IDR or $1 USD per person.
Want more information on Uluwatu and Bali? Read the Ultimate Uluwatu Travel Guide and 12 Things I Wish I’d Known Before My First Trip to Bali.
Padang Padang Beach
Movie-Famous Beach Best for Swimming & Beginner Surfers
The popular Padang Padang Beach is famous for its appearance in the move Eat, Pray, Love. The protected cove and soft sand make it a great spot for swimming and novice surfers. I fully expected this small beach to be overhyped, but it turned out to be one of my favorite beaches in Uluwatu!
Thomas Beach
Less Crowded Beach for Relaxing & Swimming
Travelers looking for a lesser known (but still beautiful) Bali beach should head to Thomas Beach. The once-hidden-gem is located at the end of a steep set of stairs not far from the popular breakfast spot, Suka Expresso. Thomas Beach is a long sandy beach with clear water that’s great for swimming and surfing. If you’re looking for a less crowded beach in Uluwatu, this is your spot. Rent a sun lounger and sip on a fresh coconut as you bask in the sun.
dreamland Beach
Popular Beach for Sunset Watching, Surfing & Swimming
Framed by Uluwatu’s impressive limestone cliffs, Dreamland Beach is one of the best beaches in Uluwatu. The easily accessible beach (no steep stairs or hiking required) is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunset watching. Dreamland Beach faces due west for a beautiful uninterrupted view of the sunset that draws locals and visitors alike. The conditions here are generally good for swimming, but be careful as the rip tides can be powerful!. There are plenty of sun loungers for rent to relax and enjoy the views.
Suluban Beach
Unique Beach Best for Surfing
Tucked between an impressive array of rocks and caves, Suluban Beach is popular with surfers. The unique beach is surrounded by restaurants built into the cliffside making it a great spot to watch Uluwatu’s famous surf breaks. Climb down between the rocks to see the stunning beach before heading up to one of the overlooking cafes and watch the surfers catch the rolling waves while a enjoying a latté and fresh fruit bowl. Suluban Beach is a surfer’s paradise and an iconic spot to watch Uluwatu’s famous waves.
Bingin Beach
Photogenic Beach for Surfing & Sunsets
The photogenic Bingin Beach features impressive boulders and is a great surfing and sunset-watching spot. After exploring the sandy beach and giant boulders, head to one of the beach bars to enjoy the sunset—Kelly’s Warung is a popular spot. While the water is beautiful at Bingin Beach, the surf can be rough so swimming here is not always recommended. There are plenty of cafes and accommodations located just above the beach if you’re looking for a stay on the water.
Green Bowl Beach
Secluded Hidden Gem Beach
Green Bowl Beach is a gem hidden along Bali’s south coast. While the tiny picturesque beach is not always suitable for swimming (no lifeguards and strong currents), it feels like you’re off the grid. To reach the secluded spot, hike down a long steep set of stairs. Once you’re there, enjoy the incredible views, bask in the sun, and explore the two sea caves.
Melasti Beach
Good for Swimming & Relaxing
Located at the southernmost tip of Bali, Melasti is one of the island’s top-rated beaches. Backed by staggering limestone cliffs, the beautiful beach is home to several upscale beach clubs, most notably Palmilla Bali Beach Club and White Rock Beach Club.
Balangan Beach
Famous Cliff Viewpoint
The popular Balangan Beach is known for its iconic cliff viewpoint overlooking the long sandy shore. Like most of Uluwatu’s beaches, this is another great surfing spot for all levels. At high tide, Balangan is a good spot for beginners to learn how to surf. When you’re done surfing, there are plenty of cafes, warungs, and sun loungers to enjoy.
Nyang Nyang Beach
remote & Raw Beauty
At just under a mile long, Nyang Nyang Beach is one of the longest stretches of sand on the Bukit peninsula. The remote beach has an alluring sense of raw beauty. Park at the top of the cliff and walk down or ride your scooter down the steep path to the bottom. Relax in the sand and swim in the cool water as you watch surfers catch the reef breaks. Make sure to bring towels, food, and water here. At low tide, you can walk to the neighboring Nunggalan Beach and see the shipwreck stuck in the sand.
The Rugged & Beautiful Nyang Nyang Beach
