- Nomadic Siddhu
15 Most Beautiful and Serene Beaches in Bali
Being the most popular touristic destination in Indonesia, Bali has one of the best beaches in the world. Many come to Bali maybe for the culture, arts, temples, diving, surfing or even the food, but one thing for sure it is also for the beaches.
Travellers visit Bali for its long stretches of white sand beach, the crystal clear sea for swimming, strong waves for surfing, and black volcanic sands for sunbathing.
There are many beach types in Bali, from those with big rocks created by corals or lava to those covered wholly with white or black sand. Depending on what you want to do at the beach, whether you are a swimmer or not, or with kids, you may well choose from these beautiful beaches below. Look out for the high tide when swimming!
Have a look at my list of the most beautiful and serene Bali beaches to find one that suits you the best.
1. Kelingking Beach
Located on the southwestern coast of Nusa Penida Island in Bali, Kelingking beach is a secluded stretch of white sand bordered by T-rex shaped steep cliffs. The scenic beauty is offset by the 400m steep climb and strong undercurrents, making this a sparsely populated beach. The only security from fatal falls are bamboo fences, so physical fitness is a must while coming here.
This beach is replete with a plethora of points that give panoramic views of the whole place. Make sure to explore some of them and be amazed by the mesmerizing views that they have to offer of the blue ocean and the white sandy terrain. The ever-flowing cool breeze increases the charm of this beach and makes it a must-visit.
Kelingking Beach is a wonderful place hidden amidst limestone cliffs and beautiful blue water. This place is worth exploring because the beauty of it is simply mesmerizing and the picturesque views of the ocean you will see from here will leave you simply awestruck.
How to Reach
Kelingking Beach is situated at Nusa Penida Island which is easily accessible from Bali. You will have to take a speedboat which runs at regular intervals from Bali to reach this island. Once on this island, you can hire a moped that will take you to Kelingking Beach in 30 minutes.
Address : Bunga Mekar, Nusa Penida, Klungkung, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : Carpark: IDR 10,000
2. Angel's Billabong
Angel’s Billabong is a spectacular rock formation near Pasih Uug (Broken Beach), on the southwestern end of Nusa Penida Island. Both spots offer views of beautiful cliffs and pristine coastlines. There’s a pathway leading to a naturally formed rock lagoon, offering a scenic seascape and pleasant swimming spot on the island.
It’s a good idea to explore Broken Beach first, where you can enjoy a view of natural limestone arches over the blue waters. A trail (with signposts) will lead you to Angel’s Billabong from the beach. You can enjoy a dip in the rock pools or swim around the entire lagoon if you’re feeling adventurous.
You’ll most likely have this natural infinity pool all to yourself on your visit, but swim only during low tide. It’s also a good idea to wear reef shoes as the seaweed-covered rocks can get rather slippery. If it’s high tide, the spectacular scene of waves crashing against the jagged rocks is still viewable from the top.
How to reach
Angel’s Billabong is around 17 km southwest of Toya Pakeh, one of Nusa Penida’s main harbour towns. The best way to get to this natural landmark is by rented scooter, which you can find at many rental shops in the town centre.
Address : Sakti, Nusapenida, Klungkung, Bali
Timings : All day
Entry Fee : Carpark: IDR 10,000
3. Kuta Beach
Kuta beach heralded the era of tourism in Bali. A few minutes away from the Bali airport, Kuta attracts hundreds of visitors to its golden sands and surf waves making it one of the busiest and liveliest beaches the country has to offer. A plethora of cheap options for accommodation, food and beach clubs make this ideal for young travellers seeking a fun beach holiday.
Kuta Beach is popular for its jaw-dropping sunsets and vibrant nightlife. It is quite deservedly one of the best-known tourist areas of Bali. It is a fun destination that can cater to a mixed bag of travellers. It is continually developing and adding to its popularity. Kuta Beach is clean, well-maintained and safe, despite all the aggressive beach vendors.
This may not be the island’s best in terms of natural beauty (although it’s still pretty incredible), but Kuta Beach is world-famous, and with good reason. Today it is one of the liveliest spots on the island, offering countless fun activities – from surfing to eating and shopping, from dawn to late at night.
How to reach
Kuta Beach is very close to Denpasar Airport. A taxi ride to the beach will take 15 minutes from the airport. There are pre-paid taxis available at the airport and metered taxis available right outside. Alternatively, you can also catch a bemo (a public van) outside the airport to Kuta Beach.
Kuta is also well connected by bus routes to almost all areas of Bali. Once in Kuta, you might find it difficult to navigate the traffic, as the region has very small lanes. The best option is to commute on foot or to rent motorbikes.
Address: Jl. Raya Kuta, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali
Timings : 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Entry Fee : Free
4. Pandawa Beach
Nestled in the southern corner of Bali, Pandawa beach, also called 'the secret beach', is a 1 km stretch of stunning shoreline flanked by precipitous hills on either side. Inaccessible until recently, the newly carved entrance invites you into a spot of untouched beauty, allowing you to sunbathe and witness a beautiful sunrise here.
Named after the five Balinese Hindu heroes of the Pandawa Lima, Pandawa Beach is a quietude place. This beach is a cheerful and lively place always bustling with people located in the south of Bali. There are a number of water activities which you can indulge in to add fun to your trip.
A number of food stalls serving scrumptious Balinese cuisines are also located in and around the beach. Make sure to treat your taste buds with palatable seafood. The gigantic waves and the white sand will entice you to visit this place and it would definitely be a delightful experience.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to reach Pandawa Beach is Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali which is well connected with all the major cities in the world. Pandawa Beach is located at a distance of 18 km from the airport. This distance can be easily covered by hiring a cab.
By Road: A number of cabs and rental cars are available that will take you to Pandawa Beach from any part of Bali. You can even rent scooters and drive to Pandawa Beach.
Address : Gang Kutuh, Badung, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : Adults: IDR 8,000,Children: IDR 4,000
5. Gili Trawangan
Located just off the north-eastern coast of Lombok and to Bali' west, Gili Trawangan is a part of the Gili Island archipelago comprising Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air and more than 20 other smaller islands. It is also the most developed and tourist-friendly among them. The largest of the Gili Islands, because of its tourism-centric infrastructure and fantastic marine biology, it has blossomed into the ideal place to go freediving, scuba diving, and snorkelling.
Gili Trawangan is also known for its raucous parties that feature techno beats that rave on into the wee hours of the night. Beaches in Gili Trawangan do not have proper names as such but instead, are popular by the directions. While some beaches have accommodation facilities and lounge bars, others are a natural treasure of seaweed and soft corals.
How to Reach
Gili Trawangan is just 45 minutes away from Bali and can be reached via aeroplanes as well as ferry rides.
Address : Gili Indah, North Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : No Fee
6. Nusa Dua Beach
Often described as an 'All Inclusive' beach, Nusa Dua has everything one could ask for - shopping complexes, high-end hotels, museums, even an 18-hole golf course! The pristine white sand and blue waters provide an awe-inspiring scene to rejuvenate your senses, and the additional facilities of spas and water-sports make this an ideal location for both the honeymooning couples and travelling families.
Nusa Dua Beach is a clean and serene beach with blue water and silvery sand in Bali. The beauty of this place will leave enchanted and the various water activities will add the required amount of adventure in your trip. You will also be able to explore the rich marine life including colourful Corals and fishes that habitat under the sea. The rustling of the waves crashing on the shore along with the sweet salty fragrance lingering in the air makes Nusa Dua Beach an ideal retreat.
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport to reach Nusa Dua Beach is Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali which is well connected with all the major cities in the world. The distance between the two is around 12 km which can easily be covered by hiring a cab or a taxi.
By Road: Nusa Dua Beach is located 40 km south of Denpasar, the provincial capital of Bali. You can even reach Nusa Dua Beach from Kuta area which is around 20 km away and Jimbaran which is around 15 km away by hailing a cab or taxi. Public transport is not very regular in this area, but some bemos from Tegal terminal in Denpasar do run that will drop you here. You can even rent a scooter and find your own way to reach the beach.
Address : Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua, Denpasar, Bali,
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : No Entry Fee
7. Broken Beach
Broken Beach is a scenic coastal formation on the southwestern edge of Nusa Penida. The spot is marked by a hilly rock arch, which is the star landmark of the area. Also known by its local name, Pasih Uug, it's a great spot for travel photographers and anyone who wants to enjoy stunning panoramic views.
You can watch the waves crashing in from the Indian Ocean and, if you’re lucky, you may spot silhouettes of giant mantas near the surface of the deep blue water. The adjacent area is also home to grey long-tailed macaques.
How to Reach
The journey to Broken Beach is an overland adventure through Nusa Penida’s rugged limestone terrain. Most of the pathways are rocky and unpaved. The majority of people rent a motorbike to reach the beach, and it’ll still take around 2 hours to reach this corner from the main harbour area in Nusa Penida’s north-western tip. Once you get to Broken Beach, you’ll be rewarded by a truly sweeping seascape.
You can combine your trip to Broken Beach to see more unique coastal features, such as the beautiful Angel's Billabong. There are local vendors selling drinks and light refreshments. Some sell beer, so you can sit back on a cliff edge with a cold one to take in the view.
Address : Sakti, Nusa Penida, Klungkung, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : 5,000 IDR per person, and 5,000 IDR for parking
8. Lovina Beach
Bali might be known as Indonesia’s party island, but not all of its beaches have that notorious wild vibe. At Lovina Beach in north-western Bali, you’ll find a much more laidback atmosphere where people can lay back and enjoy the feeling of sand in their toes and sun on their skin instead. It’s quieter than most tourist hotspots, but that is exactly Lovina Beach’s charm. The exquisite beach consists of seven small villages like Pemaron, Anturan, Kalibukbuk (the liveliest village of the lot), Temukus, and Kaliasem along its 10 kilometre stretch. Instead of Bali’s usual white sand beaches, you’re treated here with narrow, black sand beaches which have calm waters ideal for swimming and relaxing in the waves.
Lovina Beach is most popular for dolphin watching, snorkelling, and enjoying the calm of traditional Indonesian life. Dolphin sightings are an everyday affair, and you’ll certainly find yourself encouraged by everyone from shopkeepers to hotel staff, to give it a shot. Lovina Beach has its options of bars and cafes for the partying, but for the most part, it’s a great little nook to spend time with friends, family, and loved ones in a quiet getaway.
The ideal time to visit Lovina Beach is from April to September when you’ll find fewer crowds, meaning a more budget holiday. The beach weather is still pleasant as this is the time right after the high season before the monsoon rains kick in.
How to Reach
Lovina Beach is located 9 kilometres (20 minutes) from Singaraja. It is easily accessible by road with fairly limited traffic in this part of Bali. If you are travelling from Singaraja, you can take a bus from Sangket Terminal to Kalibukbuk for around IDR 15,000. If you are travelling from south Bali, you can take a bus from Denpasar to Singaraja and continue on to Kalibukbuk, although this trip will take a greater part of the day. There are buses that travel daily from here to Kuta and Ubud for around IDR 125,000 which will take around 3 hours.
From the airport, a taxi will cost around IDR 450,000 to Lovina Beach. While travelling within Lovina Beach, it’s best to hire a motorcycle for the day. This will cost around IDR 50,000 to IDR 90,000, but the roads are quite fun with much lesser crowds than south Bali.
Address : Lovina Beach, Anturan, Buleleng Regency, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : 5000 IDR per person
9. Jimbaran Beach
Coral reefs, sun-loungers and luxury hotels - Jimbaran beach has everything to offer for a beach-lover. A strip of land connecting mainland Bali with the Bukit peninsula, the beach is a mellow resting place offering tranquillity and peace, with a variety of dining options to have a scrumptious meal while the watching the glorious sunset here.
Jimbaran Beach is a serene and tranquil beach located in South Bali. Spread prolifically over an area of 4 km, Jimbaran Beach is a perfect place to relax and spend some peaceful and quality time with your loved ones. The lush green coconut groves in the beach provide perfect shade under which you can sit and enjoy the mesmerizing waves of the ocean. The melodious sound of the ocean will please your ears and instil a feeling of happiness in you. This beach is beautiful and picture-perfect in every possible way, the perfect place to get away from the monotony of life and be close to nature.
How to Reach
Beach is close to 33 kilometres from Denpasar. Located in a strategic area and very close to other well-known tourist destinations such as Tanjung Benoa beach and Nusa Dua beach. You can reach the beach either by choosing local transport or by renting a scooter.
Address : Jimbaran, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : No entry fee. Need to pay for vehicle parking
10. Tanjung Benoa
Famous for the striking beaches and thrilling water sports, Tanjung Benoa is a peninsula located in the Kuta South District of Bali. This stunning site beckons adventure enthusiasts with water activities like diving, banana boating, fly fishing, snorkelling, parasailing, rolling donuts and sea walking. The primary beaches on the eastern side of Tanjung Benoa are accessible to the general public within the stretch of first 3 kms.
What used to be a fishing village in the olden days, Tanjung Benoa transformed into a popular beach destination with it picturesque surroundings in the recent years. Dotted along the beach are magnificent hotels, villas and resorts. The magical white sand with the backdrop of the vast expanse of the tranquil ocean makes the well-maintained beaches of Tanjung Benoa picturesque for visitors.
Reaching Tanjung Benoa early in the morning is the best idea because the sun is not too harsh at that time and the beach is less crowded. Thus, one can enjoy the glamour of nature being its splendid best in the early hours of the day.
How to Reach
If you are coming directly from the airport, the Tanjung Benoa is merely a 15-minutes ride away in a privately hired cab. However, if you have opted for accommodation in and around Nusa Dua area, all you need to step out and walk to the beaches which are barely a few steps away from the area.
Address : Tanjung Benoa Beach, Benoa, Badung Regency, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : No entry fee.
11. Seminyak Beach
Also called the 'Spa and boutique shopping capital of Bali', Seminyak beach offers a more upscale experience than its immediate neighbours Kuta and Legian. With a quiet and laid-back atmosphere, this beach has some of the best fine-dining restaurants in Bali in addition to the luxury resorts and villas, making your stay here absolutely pleasurable.
Seminyak Beach is one of the poshest and stylish beaches in Bali. This beach is extremely clean and prices to be a great retreat. This beach is visited by a large number of people who come here to relax and enjoy. The white sandy terrain, shimmering blue water and verdant palm trees make the beach look serene and picturesque. The beauty of this beach during the sunset when the sky is filled with myriad shades of colours is inexpressible.
At Seminyak Beach, you can even indulge in a number of water activities and also horseback ride to enjoy the beautiful ocean. This is a great place to refresh yourself and enjoy the sandy terrain and salty water. The time you will spend on this beach will always be memorable.
The best time to visit Seminyak Beach is between the months of April and September. The weather during this time period is cool and pleasing.
How to Reach
Seminyak Beach is located in close proximity to Kuta and Legian. A number of cabs and rental cars are easily available that will take you here. You can even rent a scooter to reach Seminyak Beach.
Address : Jalan Caplak Tanduk, Badung, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : No entry fee. 5000 IDR for parking
12. Padang Padang Beach
One of the many surfing spots Bali has to offer, Padang Padang beach on the Bukit peninsula features a long stretch of white sand ideal for building sand castles and sunbathing, while the blue waters draw pro surfers. Lined with cafes and shops, the beach gained fame for being the backdrop to Julia Robert's Eat, Pray, Love
Located on the north-western coast of the Bukit Peninsula Island, Padang Padang Beach is an ideal retreat from the city. Known locally as Pantai Labuan Sait, this beach is hidden and has to be reached by passing through a unique hollow rock entrance. Always bustling with people, Padang Padang beach has a lively and pleasant environment that will make you feel happy. Padang Padang beach is a perfect place to relax and enjoy some peace.
The best time to visit Padang Padang beach is between the months of May and September. This beach will provide you solace from the heat waves of Bali, and treat you with pleasant and windy weather during this time period.
How to Reach
Located at a distance of almost 44 km from Denpasar city. It can be easily reached by a means of local transport, taxi or renting a scooter.
Address : Jalan Labuansait, Badung, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : IDR 10,000
13. Melasti Beach
Situated near the sacred temple of Tanah, Melasti is an alluring Bali beach which is known for its fascinating sunset views. Being one of the lesser-known beaches, Melasti is an ideal getaway for people who are looking for a peaceful escape from the worldly crowd.
In addition to this, it is also a perfect spot for photo fanatics and nature buffs. If you wish to get a closer look at its local rituals, don’t forget to be a part of its Melasti Ceremony.
Get your adrenaline pumping by trying underwater sports like snorkelling., Go for an evening dinner at Warungs., Head for a morning workout by the beachside Relish the magnificent view of Melasti Beach Waterfall.
How to Reach
Melasti Beach is located in the southern part of Bali and can be easily accessed. The beach is around an hour’s drive from Canggu. If one is staying in Uluwatu, Melasti beach is just five minutes away from Green Bowl Beach and the Abandoned Plane. The easiest way to get around is by hiring a private taxi or a scooter through the city.
Address : Jalan Padma Utara Legian, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : 5000 IDR for parking
14. Atuh Beach
Atuh Beach is a remarkable beach with the stunning scenic landscapes making it close to heaven on earth. Atuh Beach is located in Nusa Penida, Klungkung regency. Boasting one of the most outstanding views you can ever imagine. Here you will find the shimmering azure waters contrasted against rugged mountain peaks, and stretches of white sands laid out perfectly in the curved beach.
Atuh Beach is abundant with rock shelters and is overlooked by a cliff. But the stunning coral reefs are what bring Atuh to life, especially during low tide when at their full glory.
The best time to visit the beach is during sunrise, where the ocean looks truly serene with beauty. By 8:00 AM even the vendors open up their shops so one can also pick up some trinkets or grab a delicious bite to eat. The views of nature and the beach is amazing, so don't leave without clicking some beautiful snaps.
How to Reach
To reach the beach, one has to reach the island of Nusa Penida and one can catch a ferry or boat to the island. The journey takes about 30-45 minutes to reach depending upon the weather conditions. In Nusa Penida, the roads are bumpy and rocky which are dotted by potholes which add some hurdles in the journey.
Address : Jalan Pejukutan, Klungkung, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : Carpark: IDR 10,000
15. Legian Beach
The undisputed nightlife hub in Bali, Legian beach promises to have you grooving the night away at its numerous bars and nightclubs scattered across the sandy shores. Midway between Kuta and Seminyak, Legian offers you the best of both worlds in a surf paradise which is not crowded and still provides a premium leisure experience.
Translating to “sweet and pleasant” from Balinese, Legian Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy swimming and surfing. A number of quaint food stalls and cafes are located in and around the beach which play groovy music. The perfect way to enjoy the time spent here is to buy a bottle of beer and sit near the sea enjoying the picturesque beauty of this place.
If you love partying, this tranquil place turns into a hub of crazy parties during the night. All the colourful lights, electric music and crazy dancing will definitely make your night a memorable one. Visit Legian Beach not only for its scenic beauty but also because it provides with the best of both worlds.
July and August are the best months to hit this beach.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to reach Legian Beach is Ngurah Rai International Airport which is located at a distance of 9 km. Rental cabs are easily available from the airport that will whisk you off to your desired destination.
By Road: Kuta and Seminyak are located in close proximity to the beach. From here you can either choose to hail a cab, have a lazy stroll or hire a scooter and drive to Legian Beach.
Address : Jalan Melasti, Legian, Bali
Timings : All Day
Entry Fee : No Entry Fee