10 Beaches in Uluwatu You’ll Fall in Love With

White cliffs turn warm in the late afternoon light. You hear the waves hit the rocks below, and the sound carries through the caves. Uluwatu feels slower. You notice the pace of things and settle into it.

For many first-timers, Uluwatu begins as a simple idea—beaches that still feel wild but easy enough to reach for a swim, a drink, or a long walk at sunset.

We spent a few days here and saw that every beach feels different. Some are good for slow afternoons and easy swims. Others draw surfers waiting for the right wave.

This guide lists the 10 best beaches in Uluwatu for swimming, surfing, sunsets, and quiet spots. It helps you plan your itinerary, choose which beaches to visit, and know what to expect at each one.

We moved around by scooter and local rides. We checked the tide times. We walked the steps. We stayed long enough to see which places were worth the effort.

Some beaches are quiet and easy. Some feel more rugged. Some work well for families. Others are better when you want space. A few invite you to slow down, sit, and enjoy a cold drink after a swim.

The best time to visit is the dry season, from April to October. Expect less rain and lower humidity. April, May, September, and October give you fewer crowds and a relaxed pace.

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Uluwatu Beach Map & Easy Comparison Guide

1. Suluban Beach — Surf Cave and Sunset Vibe

Suluban Beach, also known as Blue Point or Uluwatu Beach, is one of the most iconic beaches in Uluwatu, famous for its surf, sea caves, and beautiful sunsets.

When my sister and I first visited, we walked down the narrow stairs past small cafes and surf shops until the cliffs opened into a bright cave.

The sound of the waves bounced off the rocks as we stepped through shallow water to a small sandy spot. Watching the surfers ride the waves from inside the cave was something I’ll always remember.

• Who it’s for: Advanced surfers, photographers, sunset seekers
• Best time to visit: Late afternoon to sunset
• Access: Long staircase through caves and narrow rock paths
• Entrance fee: Free
• Parking: Around 3,000–5,000 IDR for motorbikes or 15,000 IDR for cars near Single Fin
• Lifeguard: None
• Facilities: Warungs, surfboard rentals, cliff cafés, toilets

What Can You Do There?
Watch skilled surfers glide over the reef breaks, then explore the sea caves that reveal themselves at low tide. When the light softens, make your way to Single Fin for a cold drink and one of Uluwatu’s best sunset views.

Practical Tips & Safety
The descent is steep and slippery, so wear shoes with grip. Visit at low tide for cave access, but avoid swimming unless experienced—currents are strong.

Nearby Eats & Where to Stay
Grab a smoothie bowl or beer at Single Fin. Stay at Blue Point Bay Villas for the easy access to the cliffs.

2. Padang Padang Beach — Family Favorite

Padang Padang Beach, also known as Labuan Sait, is known for its soft sand and turquoise water. It’s a small, protected cove surrounded by cliffs, perfect for swimming, learning to surf, or spending a slow day in the sun.

If you come to Padang Padang hoping to find the bar where Julia Roberts and Javier Bardem met in Eat Pray Love, you’ll be disappointed—it was built just for the movie.

But the real beach is actually even better, though, with soft sand, clear water, and easy access for everyone.

If you are a first timer, you might be surprised how unique the entrance is —you will slip through a narrow rock gap and climb down stone steps before the beach suddenly appears below you.

The cliffs rise high around a semicircular cove, and the water sparkles bright blue under the sun. It’s small and lively, but once you wade in, the noise fades, and all you hear is the sound of waves breaking against the reef.

• Who it’s for: Advanced surfers, photographers, sunset seekers
• Best time to visit: Late afternoon to sunset
• Access: Long staircase through caves and narrow rock paths
• Entrance fee: 15,000 IDR for foreign adults and 10,000 IDR for foreign children, with lower rates for local visitors.
• Parking: Around 2,000–5,000 IDR for motorbikes
• Lifeguard: None
• Facilities: Warungs, surfboard rentals, cliff cafés, toilets

What Can You Do There?
Swim in calm, clear water, try a surf lesson, or relax under the shady cliffs. It’s a great spot to enjoy with friends or family.

Practical Tips & Safety
Arrive early before the crowds, especially on weekends. Watch out for monkeys near the entrance—they’re bold and quick with snacks and sunglasses. Bring small cash for entrance and parking fees.

Nearby Eats & Where to Stay
Grab fresh coconuts or satay from the warungs near the stairs. Stay at a nearby Padang Padang guesthouse to reach the beach on foot.

3. Balangan Beach — Cliff Views and Easy Surf

Balangan Beach is one of the most scenic beaches in Uluwatu, known for its long golden shore and the cliff viewpoint that overlooks the ocean.

It’s a mix of calm and adventure, where beginners can learn to surf at high tide while others simply stretch out under the sun or watch the waves roll in from above.

The first time I came to Balangan, it was just before sunset. The beach was quiet, with a few surfers catching the last waves of the day and locals sipping coconuts near the cliff’s edge.

The view from the top was unreal—soft light, endless ocean, and the sound of waves echoing off the rocks. It’s one of those beaches that feels both relaxed and alive at the same time.

• Who it’s for: Surfers, couples, relaxed travelers
• Best time to visit: Late afternoon to sunset
• Access: Easy walk down short stairs from the parking area
• Entrance fee: Free
• Parking: Around 3,000–5,000 IDR for motorbikes
• Lifeguard: Occasionally present
• Facilities: Warungs, beach bars, umbrellas, surfboard rentals

What Can You Do There?
Learn to surf at high tide, walk along the cliffs for photos, or grab a drink at a warung while watching the sunset.

Practical Tips & Safety
Bring small cash for parking and drinks. The reef can be sharp at low tide, so wear water shoes if you plan to walk far out. Come before sunset to enjoy the viewpoint without the crowds.

Nearby Eats & Where to Stay
Try one of the beach warungs for grilled fish and fresh coconuts. Stay at La Joya Biu-Biu Resort for quick beach access and sunset views.

4. Bingin Beach — Surf, Sunsets, and Laid-Back Charm

Bingin Beach is one of the most photogenic beaches in Uluwatu, famous for its golden light, rustic surf scene, and relaxed energy.

Set at the bottom of a cliff, it’s the kind of place that feels tucked away from everything, where barefoot surfers and travelers gather at small warungs to watch the sun melt into the sea.

The first time I came here, I followed the narrow village path that winds down to the beach, passing simple homestays and surfboards leaning against walls.

The walk down opens into a small stretch of sand surrounded by boulders and the sound of waves hitting the reef. The air smells like salt and grilled fish, and everything moves a little slower here.

• Who it’s for: Surfers, couples, slow travelers
• Best time to visit: Afternoon to sunset
• Access: Steep stairs from the village above
• Entrance fee: Free
• Parking: around IDR 2,000–5,000
• Lifeguard: None
• Facilities: Warungs, cafes, surf rentals, guesthouses

What Can You Do There?
Watch local and visiting surfers take on the reef breaks, explore the tide pools at low tide, or settle in at The Cashew Tree or Lucky Fish Lounge for a cold drink and ocean view.

Practical Tips & Safety
Wear sandals with grip for the steep path. Swimming is best at high tide on the left side, as reefs can be sharp. Bring small cash for food and parking.

Nearby Eats & Where to Stay
Bingin’s once-famous Kelly’s Warung has closed, but the beach still has plenty of great spots to eat and stay. You can check out this list. If you’re looking for a place to stay, check out The Bingin Green View by Bukit Vista—a cozy option close to the beach.

Important Note: Bingin Beach is currently undergoing major improvements, with old structures being cleared to make way for a safer, more sustainable coastal area. Access is limited for now, and the road down can be challenging, so it’s best to wait for the new path and facilities to be completed before planning your visit.

5. Dreamland Beach — Wide Shore, Easy Waves, Sunset Magic

Dreamland Beach is one of the most accessible and popular beaches in Uluwatu, known for its long stretch of white sand, gentle waves, and epic west-facing sunset. Whether you’re learning to surf, settling in with a sun lounger, or simply looking for a social beach experience, Dreamland delivers.

On our first visit, we arrived just as the light softened in the late afternoon. The wide open beach felt inviting, with families playing in the sand, surfers paddling out, and the cliffs framing the scene like a natural amphitheater.

We found a spot under a rented beach umbrella and watched the sun dip behind the ocean—while sipping a fresh coconut and listening to distant waves.

• Who it’s for: Beginners, families, sunset seekers
• Best time to visit: Morning to sunset
• Access: Easy drive down with minimal steps
• Entrance fee: Free
• Parking: Scooter 5,000 IDR, car ~10–20,000 IDR
• Lifeguard: Not always present; waves can be strong
• Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, warungs, restrooms 

What Can You Do There?
Catch your first surf lesson in gentle waves, stroll the long shoreline as the sky turns pink, or rent a beach chair and watch the sunset with a drink in hand.

Practical Tips & Safety
Midday sun can be intense, so arrive early or stay until sunset for cooler light. While the waves here are beginner-friendly, rip currents can occur—stay close to shore if you’re not confident. Bring cash for parking and rentals.

Nearby Eats & Where to Stay
Explore the warungs near the beach entrance for grilled fish or fresh smoothies. For stays, look into beachside guesthouses or resorts in the Pecatu area for easy access.

6. Green Bowl Beach — Quiet Escape

Green Bowl Beach is one of the most peaceful beaches in Uluwatu, tucked away on Bali’s southern coast. Hidden beneath a cliff, it’s known for its calm atmosphere, bright turquoise water, and caves glowing green with moss.

Getting there takes effort, but the reward is an untouched slice of coast where you can sit in silence and listen to the waves.

The first time I went, I remember stopping at the top of the hill and seeing the ocean spread out endlessly below. The stairs seemed never-ending, but every turn brought a better view of the water.

When you finally reach the sand, you will find yourself almost alone—just a few others reading or watching the sea from the shade of the caves.

• Who it’s for: Travelers who crave quiet moments. Perfect for journaling, reading, or simply sitting still and watching the ocean.
• Best time to visit: Morning or low tide
• Access: 300+ steep steps down the cliff
• Entrance fee: 5,000 IDR per person
• Parking: 2,000–5,000 IDR near the small market
• Lifeguard: None
• Facilities: None. The beach is more secluded and natural.

What Can You Do There?
Take in the ocean views from the cliff, explore the sea caves at low tide, or relax on the sand in complete quiet. The surf offshore is strong and better suited for advanced surfers.

Practical Tips & Safety
Bring enough water and wear proper shoes for the steep climb. The waves can be rough, so avoid swimming during high tide. A navigation app helps, as the road signs are limited.

Nearby Eats & Where to Stay
You’ll find small warungs near the parking area, but no vendors on the beach. Stay near Ungasan or Nusa Dua if you want a quiet base close by.

7. Nyang Nyang Beach — Remote and Wildly Beautiful

Nyang Nyang Beach is one of the most untouched beaches in Uluwatu, known for its long stretch of white sand, turquoise water, and rugged cliffs. It’s quiet, vast, and feels worlds away from Bali’s busier coastlines—a place for those who crave solitude and raw natural beauty.

Visitors often say the walk down is part of the experience. The steep, uneven path winds through farmland and jungle before opening up to a view that stops you in your tracks.

When you finally reach the bottom, you’re met with soft sand, rolling waves, and almost complete silence, just the sound of the ocean and wind.

• Who it’s for: Nature lovers, photographers, reflection seekers
• Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon
• Access: Steep and uneven road or footpath; not stroller-friendly
• Entrance fee: Small donation (around 5,000 IDR)
• Parking: 2,000–5,000 IDR near the top
• Lifeguard: None
• Facilities: None—bring your own food and water

What Can You Do There?
Walk along the long sandy stretch, take photos of the cliffs and shipwreck, or simply sit and enjoy the calm. Surfers can catch waves offshore, but swimming can be risky due to strong currents.

Practical Tips & Safety
Wear sturdy shoes for the trek and bring enough water for the climb back. There are no vendors, so pack snacks and essentials. Visit during low tide to explore the connecting path to Nunggalan Beach.

Nearby Eats & Where to Stay
No food stalls are on the beach itself, but you’ll find small warungs near the parking area. Stay in Pecatu or Uluwatu for easy access without losing the quiet vibe.

8. Thomas Beach — Quiet Sands and Easy Swims

Thomas Beach is a calm, open stretch of sand that feels worlds away from Uluwatu’s busier spots. It’s one of those beaches where time slows down — soft waves, plenty of space, and an easygoing vibe.

Hidden between Padang Padang and Suluban, it offers clear water, smooth sand, and fewer crowds, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing with a drink in hand.

Thomas Beach is one of the most peaceful beaches in Uluwatu, known for its long stretch of soft white sand, calm turquoise water, and relaxed atmosphere.

Unlike the more crowded spots nearby, Thomas still feels like a local secret where you can spread out, swim safely, and stay all afternoon.

Reaching it takes a short walk down about 170 steps, but once you step onto the sand, it’s worth every bit of effort. From the top, the view is stunning—wide open ocean framed by cliffs and coconut trees.

Down below, the beach is open and breezy, perfect for lounging, swimming, or simply doing nothing at all.

• Who it’s for: Beach lovers, swimmers, and groups looking to relax
• Best time to visit: Morning to mid-afternoon
• Access: 172-step staircase from the parking area
• Entrance fee: Free
• Parking: Around 2,000–5,000 IDR
• Lifeguard: None
• Facilities: Warungs, sunbeds, umbrellas, massages

What Can You Do There?
Swim in the calm waters, rent a sunbed, and enjoy a coconut under the shade. During low tide, explore the small caves and tide pools along the shore. It’s also a great place to get a beachside massage or play a casual volleyball game with friends.

Practical Tips & Safety
Bring water and sun protection, as shade can be limited during midday. Go early to enjoy the beach before day-trippers arrive, and wear sturdy shoes for the stairs.

Nearby Eats & Where to Stay
A few small warungs at the back of the beach offer drinks and snacks. For more choices, head up to the main road above the cliffs. You can also stay at Thomas Beach Apartment for easy access to nearby beaches.

9. Melasti Beach — Cliffs and Day-Club Vibes

If you love beach clubs and scenic views, Melasti is the perfect spot. It’s home to some of Bali’s most stylish clubs, including Palmilla Bali Beach Club and White Rock Beach Club, where you can relax, swim, and enjoy the ocean from a sunbed.

The name “Melasti” comes from the traditional Hindu cleansing ceremony held here every year, giving this beach a deeper cultural charm. Swimming is best when the tide is calm, but the waves can get strong, so it’s safest to stay near the shore.

Whether you come for sunrise photos, a lazy beach day, or sunset cocktails by the cliffs, Melasti always feels special.

• Who it’s for: Beach club lovers, families, and photographers
• Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for softer light
• Access: Easy paved road leading down between cliffs
• Entrance fee: Around 5,000 IDR per adult
• Parking: Available near the beach
• Lifeguard: Sometimes present
• Facilities: Beach clubs, restaurants, restrooms, sunbeds, showers

What Can You Do There?
Take a dip in the clear blue water, enjoy a day-pass at one of the beach clubs, or walk along the dramatic cliffs for panoramic views. It’s also a favorite spot for drone shots and pre-wedding photos.

Practical Tips & Safety
Bring cash for entrance and parking, and check the tide before swimming. If you prefer a quieter experience, come early before the day-club crowd arrives.

Nearby Eats & Where to Stay
You’ll find great food and cocktails at Palmilla and White Rock Beach Clubs. For nearby stays, explore resorts and villas along Ungasan for easy access to Melasti and other Uluwatu beaches.

10. Karma Beach — Luxe Escape with Funicular Access

If you want a quiet and fancy beach day, Karma Kandara Beach is a great choice. It sits below the cliffs of the resort, and even the way down feels special.

You take a short glass lift that slides along the cliff, opening up to clear blue water and soft white sand. It’s calm, private, and feels like your own secret spot by the sea.

At the bottom, Karma Beach Club has a relaxed but stylish vibe. You can rest on a cabana, eat wood-fired pizza or fresh seafood, and enjoy a cold drink while soft music plays.

The water stays clear and gentle at low tide, perfect for swimming or paddling before you sit back and watch the sunset over the ocean.

• Who it’s for: Couples, people who want to experience a luxurious beach, and a relaxed place.
• Best time to visit: Morning to afternoon at low tide
• Access: Private funicular from Karma Kandara Resort
• Entrance fee: Minimum spend of 750,000 IDR per person applies to most seating areas at Karma Beach Club
• Parking: Available at Karma Kandara
• Lifeguard: Present
• Facilities: Beach club, restaurant, bar, cabanas, spa, restrooms

What Can You Do There?
Enjoy a swim in the clear lagoon, unwind in a cabana, or book a beachfront massage at the spa. Stay for sunset drinks as the music shifts from relaxed daytime beats to a more upbeat evening vibe.

Practical Tips & Safety
Book your day pass early, especially during weekends and holidays. Bring reef shoes for exploring at low tide, and check tide times to plan your swim.

Nearby Eats & Where to Stay
The Karma Kandara Resort offers fine dining at Di Mare Restaurant and stylish villas overlooking the ocean. If you want to stay nearby, check other cliffside resorts in Ungasan for easy access to Melasti and Pandawa too.

Best 1-Day Uluwatu Beach Itineraries

Surf Day

Start your morning riding the waves at Padang Padang, where beginners and pros share the lineup. Refuel with a laid-back lunch at Bingin Beach, surrounded by surf cafés and ocean views. End the day at Suluban (Blue Point), watching the pros carve waves below as the sun sets over the cliffs.

Slow-Travel Day

Begin with a peaceful walk down to Green Bowl Beach, where quiet caves and turquoise water set a calm tone. Spend midday at Melasti, taking photos along the cliffs or relaxing at a beach club. Close the day at Nyang Nyang, where the open sand and glowing sky make the long walk worth it.

Family-Friendly Day

Start at Pandawa Beach, perfect for kids to explore the tidal pools. Head to Dreamland for easy swimming and lunch by the shore. Wrap up at Balangan Beach, where you can watch the sunset from the cliff viewpoint.

The Best Uluwatu Beach for Every Type of Traveler

Whether you’re chasing waves, quiet moments, or a touch of luxury, Uluwatu has a beach for you. Surfers will love Suluban, Bingin, and Balangan for their world-class breaks and sunset views.

Families and beginner swimmers will feel at home on the calm shores of Padang Padang, Dreamland, and Thomas Beach. If you crave solitude and raw beauty, Green Bowl, Nyang Nyang, and Melasti offer peaceful escapes with dramatic scenery.

For something more refined, Karma Beach delivers pure indulgence with its private funicular and beach club comforts.

Uluwatu is a place you’ll want to return to, where peace, beauty, and a sense of calm fill every moment.

Ready for your next stop? Explore The Ultimate Guide to Munduk Bali: Things To Do & Itinerary and discover a different side of the island.

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