Top beaches to visit in Bali for your next vacation

Traveloka Team
26 Mar 2025 - 7 min read

With its turquoise waters, powdery sands, and year-round tropical vibes, Bali is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Whether you’re seeking a quiet escape, thrilling surf, or Instagram-worthy sunsets, Bali's beaches offer something for every kind of traveller.

This guide showcases the best beaches in Bali, with handpicked recommendations for swimming, surfing, snorkelling, and more. Get ready to discover your next sun-drenched adventure!

Our pick for the best beach in Bali

Padang Padang Beach

If you're looking for the ultimate beach experience in Bali, Padang Padang Beach in Uluwatu takes the top spot. This picturesque cove boasts soft white sands and crystal-clear waters framed by dramatic limestone cliffs.

Accessible via a narrow staircase through a rocky crevice, Padang Padang feels like a hidden paradise, yet offers plenty of conveniences like beachfront cafés and sun lounger rentals. It’s also a famous spot for surfers and was even featured in the movie Eat, Pray, Love.

Location: Jalan Labuansait, Pecatu, Uluwatu
Facilities: Cafés, sun loungers, restrooms
Stay nearby: Check out Suarga Padang Padang (eco-conscious luxury) or Batu Kandik Homestay (affordable comfort).
Best time to visit: May to September for calm waters and dry weather.

Best beaches in Bali for swimming

Nusa Dua Beach

Nusa Dua Beach offers calm, shallow waters making it one of the safest spots for swimming in Bali, particularly for families. The beach's pristine sands and peaceful vibe are enhanced by its luxurious resorts and well-maintained facilities.

Location: Nusa Dua, South Bali
Facilities: Sun loungers, shade canopies, lifeguards
Stay nearby: The St. Regis Bali Resort or Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort for world-class beachfront luxury.
Best time to visit: Dry season between May and September for crystal-clear water conditions.

Jimbaran Bay

A classic favourite, Jimbaran Bay features safe waters ideal for swimming and a laid-back vibe. The beach is perfect for enjoying a sunset swim followed by fresh seafood at the famous beachfront restaurants.

Location: Jimbaran village, South Kuta
Facilities: Beachfront diners, restrooms
Stay nearby: Four Seasons Resort or Le Meridien Bali Jimbaran for comfort and style.
Best time to visit: Early mornings or during the dry season for the calmest waters.

Best beaches in Bali for surfing

Uluwatu Beach

Known as a surfer’s paradise, Uluwatu Beach brings consistent swells and stunning views. This iconic spot offers advanced breaks for seasoned surfers, while nearby cliffside warungs provide meals with unbeatable ocean panoramas.

Location: Uluwatu, Pecatu
Facilities: Warungs (local cafés), surfboard rentals
Stay nearby: Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort or the boutique-style PinkCoco Uluwatu.
Best time to visit: Dry season (May to September), when waves are at their peak.

Balangan Beach

Balangan Beach is another hotspot for surfers and also a fantastic place for photography enthusiasts. The waves here are challenging enough for intermediates yet welcoming for beginners during certain tides.

Location: South Kuta, Pecatu
Facilities: Surfboard rentals, small cafés
Stay nearby: La Joya Balangan Resort for a beachfront stay or cosy local guesthouses nearby.
Best time to visit: May to October provides the best surf conditions.

Best beaches in Bali for snorkelling

Blue Lagoon Beach

Located in Padang Bai, Blue Lagoon Beach is a snorkeller’s haven. This tranquil bay is brimming with vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life, including parrotfish and anemones just metres offshore.

Location: Padang Bai, East Bali
Facilities: Gear rentals, cafés
Stay nearby: OK Divers Resort & Spa for convenient access to snorkelling adventures.
Best time to visit: Early mornings from April to October for the clearest waters.

Amed Beach

Renowned for black volcanic sands and unparalleled underwater views, Amed Beach is ideal for snorkelling lovers. Highlights include a Japanese shipwreck just off the shore, adding an adventurous twist to your marine explorations.

Location: Karangasem, East Bali
Facilities: Rentals, cafés, scuba hubs
Stay nearby: The Griya Villas and Spa or Palm Garden Amed Beach & Spa Resort for easy reef exploration.
Best time to visit: May to September for better visibility and weather.

Best beaches in Bali for sunsets

Tanah Lot Beach

For magical sunsets paired with cultural beauty, Tanah Lot Beach is unmatched. Home to Bali’s famous offshore temple, this beach combines spirituality with breath-taking evening views of the glowing horizon.

Location: Tabanan, West Bali
Facilities: Local food stalls, shops
Stay nearby: Natya Hotel Tanah Lot for the perfect sunset retreat.
Best time to visit: Dry season evenings for crystal-clear sunsets.

Canggu Beach

A lively spot with a bohemian vibe, Canggu Beach is perfect for relaxed sunset watching. Enjoy the golden hues set against dramatic waves while sipping on a drink from a nearby beach club like La Brisa.

Location: North Kuta, Badung
Facilities: Beach clubs, cafés
Stay nearby: The Slow or Aston Canggu Beach Resort for close access to sunset views.
Best time to visit: Dry season evenings when the sky is at its most vibrant.

Best beaches in Bali for quiet escapes

Gunung Payung Secret Beach

Those craving solitude will love Gunung Payung Secret Beach, nestled away from the bustling tourist zones. Accessible after a hike down a rocky stairway, this tranquil spot rewards adventurers with clear waters and serene vibes.

Location: Kutuh, South Kuta
Facilities: Minimal amenities; pack your own supplies.
Stay nearby: The Ritz-Carlton Bali for luxury near rugged beauty.
Best time to visit: Weekdays during May to October for a less crowded experience.

Pasir Putih (Virgin Beach)

Tucked in a secluded spot east of Candidasa, Pasir Putih offers a genuine off-the-grid vibe. With pristine white sands and gentle waves, it’s the perfect setting to disconnect and unwind.

Location: Karangasem, East Bali
Facilities: Loungers, local eateries
Best time to visit: Early mornings for ultimate serenity.

Best beaches in Bali for unique black sand

Lovina Beach

With striking black volcanic sands, Lovina Beach in North Bali provides a calming, unique beach experience. This area is also famous for dolphin tours during early-morning boat rides.

Location: Buleleng, North Bali
Facilities: Dolphin tours, restaurants
Stay nearby: The Lovina Bali Resort or Puri Bagus Lovina for tranquil stays.
Best time to visit: Sunrise hours for dolphin spotting or late afternoons for relaxing.

Keramas Beach

Surrounded by lush rice paddies, polished black sands, and sweeping surf, Keramas Beach offers a mesmerising natural contrast perfect for those seeking a unique beach escape.

Location: Gianyar, East Bali
Facilities: Beachfront cafés, villas
Stay nearby: Komune Resort and Beach Club for luxury and adventure.
Best time to visit: May to September for dry, breezy vibes.

Take your Bali beach adventure to the next level

No matter your style of beach day—from adrenaline-fueled surfing to quiet, sun-kissed relaxation—Bali has something for every traveller. Start planning your getaway and ensure every moment is spectacular by booking your accommodation, flights, and activities with Traveloka.

Get closer to paradise today.

In This Article

• Our pick for the best beach in Bali
• Padang Padang Beach
• Best beaches in Bali for swimming
• Nusa Dua Beach
• Jimbaran Bay
• Best beaches in Bali for surfing
• Uluwatu Beach
• Balangan Beach
• Best beaches in Bali for snorkelling
• Blue Lagoon Beach
• Amed Beach
• Best beaches in Bali for sunsets
• Tanah Lot Beach
• Canggu Beach
• Best beaches in Bali for quiet escapes
• Gunung Payung Secret Beach
• Pasir Putih (Virgin Beach)
• Best beaches in Bali for unique black sand
• Lovina Beach
• Keramas Beach
• Take your Bali beach adventure to the next level
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