Bali’s Best Beaches: Your Guide to Paradise

Let’s be honest: beaches in Bali are one of the big reasons you choose the island as your holiday destination. And what’s fantastic about Bali beaches is the variety of it. You can find the cove-like beach in Bukit Peninsula with world-class breaks aimed at surfers, as well as the kid-friendly beach in Sanur, which is perfect for swimming.

In this Bali beach guide, we’ll take you on a journey to some of the best beaches on the island. Prepare your sunglasses, pack your bikinis and sunscreen, and let’s beach hop!

Iconic Beaches You Must Visit

Thanks to the distinctive characters of each of these three beaches, they have now become sort of iconic in Bali. From the dramatic cliff formations to the surfer’s paradise and the family-friendly area where kids can play, these beaches are why Bali is a great beach destination.

1. Diamond Beach

Even just standing at the top of the cliff, you can’t deny how breathtakingly beautiful Diamond Beach in Nusa Penida is. With the turquoise water as far as the eye can see, combined with the white limestone and vegetation, it’s a marvelous sight.

If you have the energy (and guts!), go down to the beach through the stairways carved on the rocks. It also gives you a perfect backdrop to snap some Insta-worthy photos.

2. Dreamland Beach

Surfing and sunbathing are two things that make Dreamland Beach among the favorite beaches in Bali. With easy access to the beach from the parking, you can instantly lay out your beach sarong once you find a spot, plop yourself down, and soak in the Bali sun.

Dreamland is also one of the surf spots in Bali, with surfers trying to conquer its reef breaks. Once the sun lowers, head to one of the beachside cafes or beach clubs nearby to witness the glorious Bali sunset.

3. Melasti

Melasti Beach instantly became a favorite among beachgoers, thanks to its three iconic entrances, which resemble the Balinese gates often seen in temples. The beach area is not big, but it’s always packed with families and people looking to relax.

The crystal-clear water is certainly inviting to swim, and you’ll see kids and adults have the time of their lives in the water. Stay until sunset, as the view from here is quite spectacular.

Hidden Gems Waiting to Be Discovered

Popular beaches are fun to visit, but you know what can be exciting? Find some lesser-known and hidden gems of a beach. Thankfully, Bali still has plenty of beaches to discover, like the beaches we’re about to show you.

1. Nyang Nyang Beach

Nyang Nyang Beach has become one of the best-kept-secret beaches in Bali for years. One of the reasons is the secluded nature of the beach, which people need to really look to find. But once you walk through the steep hike, you’ll be rewarded with one of Uluwatu’s most stunning beaches.

If you come on the weekdays, chances are you’ll only find a few people there. Take that chance to explore the beach and get yourself lost in the quietness of the place.

2. Bias Tugel Beach

Padangbai is more famous for its harbor, but do you know that a beach called Bias Tugel is hidden just less than 2 kilometers from this busy marina in Bali? Known as the “Little Beach” due to its small size, just don’t underestimate its beauty.

And more than just a place to sit down and relax, there are other things you can do at Bias Tugel. Put your fins and goggles on to start snorkeling and explore the underwater paradise with different marine species.

3. Kedungu Beach

It may sound hard to find a lesser-known beach along the southeastern coast of Bali. But Kedungu Beach, with its black sand, has been a favorite among photographers. The waves are suitable for beginner surfers and have fewer crowds than those in Canggu.

What’s unique about Kedungu is the rice fields surrounding the beach. They give a contrasting view, yet they blend seamlessly, giving you the best of both worlds of what Bali is famous for.

Best Activities for Your Beach Adventure

Most of the guides about the beaches in Bali mention sunset views. However, the beach on the island is a multi-faceted place where it is possible to do various activities. While you’re in Bali, give yourself a favor by trying some of these must-things to do.

1. Surfing and Water Sports

It’s an open secret that in Bali, some of the beaches are iconic as surfing spots. If you’re an advanced surfer, Padang Padang and Suluban in the Uluwatu area are your perfect playground. If you’re a novice, Kuta, Legian, and Canggu are the ideal spots to learn how to navigate the waves.

But surfing isn’t the only thing you can do. Pump your adrenaline with parasailing in Tanjung Benoa. Beaches in Amed are perfect for seeing the underwater life through snorkeling.

2. Beachfront Dining and Nightlife

Popular beach clubs in Canggu, like Finns and Potato Head or Ku De Ta in Seminyak, are your way to a fun night in Bali. With many beach clubs in Bali having daily DJ performances and events, you will never run out of plans to dance the night away on the island.

Beyond the nightlife, wine and dining are other things you can do by the beach. You can try everything from the fine dining restaurant serving the freshest seafood to the casual warungs by the beach in Jimbaran Bay.

3. Relaxation and Wellness

There’s another side of beaches in Bali that most guides often overlook: beachfront wellness. Though wellness is mainly associated with Ubud, the beach areas in Sanur and Nusa Dua offer stunning views of the ocean while having a massage or yoga.

But you know what’s the simplest thing to do? Just go to the beach and sit down. Listen to that podcast or pick up a book while waiting for the sunset. It’s free and easy, yet you still get to soak in the beach vibe and the sun.

Conclusion: Start Your Bali Beach Adventure Today!

Even if your sole purpose of going to Bali is to explore the beach, you’ll find how different the beaches are from one area to another. Uluwatu, with its towering limestone; Nusa Penida, with its turquoise water and unique rock formations; or Seminyak, with its famous beach bars in Bali, there is much to discover.

Have you found your absolute favorite beach (or beaches) in Bali? Share it with us! If you’re still unsure about which ones to go to, start planning your trip by using this guide as your beach directory. Happy exploring!