These Best Beaches in Bali Should Be on Your List

From black sand shores to white sand beaches, Bali attracts millions of tourists to its coastlines annually. There is a Bali beach for everyone, whether you’ve come to sunbathe, swim, surf, snorkel, or dive. The key is knowing which beach to visit depending on the activity. To help you navigate the island’s many shores, here is our guide to the 10 best beaches in Bali. 

Virgin Beach

Starting from east of the island, Virgin Beach is one of the best beaches in Bali, aptly named for the way it has been mostly untouched. Located in the Karangasem regency, this beach is a 2 to 3-hour drive from the airport. Here, you will find pristine white sand where you can lounge around and sunbathe while looking out at a vast expanse of clear blue waters. The beach is surrounded by green cliffs and rock formations, giving you the feeling of seclusion and a sense of privacy.

Melasti Beach

Sitting at the base of a towering limestone cliff in Ungasan, South Kuta, Melasti is known as one of the best beaches in Bali to swim in. It’s also perfect for tanning and leisurely strolls, especially as the sun begins to set behind the cliffs. Melasti is considerably less crowded than other beaches in southern Bali, especially on the weekdays, making it a favourite for visitors looking for a more serene experience. 

Medewi Beach

If you’re seeking to escape the crowds, the beaches of West Bali offer plenty of respite. Medewi Beach, located in the lesser-travelled Jembrana Regency, is known as a haven for surfers with its mellow left-hand point break. The shore is lined with black sands and is popular among longboarders and surfers of all levels. Aside from surfing, the area also offers a glimpse into traditional Balinese life as you watch fishermen and villagers engaging in daily routines along the coast.

Sanur Beach

For the early risers and sunrise chasers, Sanur Beach should be on your list. Located on the island’s southeast coast, Sanur is a laid-back coastal area known for its calm waters and beachfront promenade lined with cafes. It’s the perfect beach for a relaxed time with family, ideal for strolling or running, cycling, and a leisurely swim in the shallow lagoons. The waters are gentle thanks to the beach’s reef, making it great for paddleboarding, too.

Thomas Beach

This beach is considered to be one of Bali’s hidden gems, nestled between Padang Padang and Uluwatu beaches. With soft white sands and turquoise waters, Thomas Beach can be accessed through a staircase of around 150 steps, at the end of which you will find a secluded haven. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, and surf its calm waves. There are local vendors or warungs around the beach serving fresh coconuts. You can also rent sunbeds for the day at an affordable price. 

Gunung Payung Beach

You can find Gunung Payung Beach in Kutuh Village in Bali’s southern coast, a 45-minute drive from the airport. This remains one of the best beaches in Bali for its soft white sands and the surrounding limestone cliffs. While the descent to the beach is lengthy, it’s worth it if you’re seeking a tranquil escape from the island’s more crowded shores. Head to this beach if you’re looking to kayak, sunbathe, swim, and gain some cultural experience at the Gunung Payung Cultural Park. The amphitheatre is home to the occasional traditional performances and is situated beneath the sacred Gunung Payung Temple. 

Suluban Beach

The name “Suluban” derives from the Balinese word which means “to pass under.” This refers to the journey you would need to take in order to get to the beach, going down narrow staircases and passing under unique cave systems. While not the beach to visit when you’re looking to lounge around or swim, Suluban’s point breaks attract surfers from all around the world. 

Blue Lagoon Beach

Another one of the best beaches in Bali is this small, tranquil cove is situated near Padangbai in East Bali, considered among island’s hidden gems. You can snorkel here right off the shore and swim along vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. The waters are calm, making it safe for families with children. Although the surrounding lush green cliffs may make Blue Lagoon feel secluded, there are easily accessible warungs for visitors who want to purchase food and drink. 

Crystal Bay, Nusa Penida

The greater Bali area encompasses the neighbouring island of Nusa Penida, which is a short boat ride away from Sanur Harbour. Here, you’ll find Crystal Bay, a picturesque beach known for crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, all framed by lush palm trees. It’s the one of the best beaches in Bali for those looking to snorkel or dive and explore Indonesia’s diverse marine life. Crystal Bay is a particularly famous destination during Mola Mola season between August to October, when the elusive sunfish can usually be spotted in the water. 

Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida

Arguably one of the most Instagrammable beaches in Bali, Kelingking Beach is located on Nusa Penida’s southwestern coast. This beach is renowned for the dramatic rock formation resembling a T-Rex jutting out from the shore. Many have visited this destination solely for a photo with the cliff as a background. Descending to the beach, though, is a different kind of beast.

It’s a steep descent down a narrow trail and requires vertical rock climbing at some points. For this reason, it’s not recommended for the faint-hearted or those arriving in inappropriate footwear. While the beach itself is stunning, strong currents and high waves have resulted in accidents and fatalities in recent years, so be very cautious during your visit. 

After a day of exploring the best beaches in Bali, make a stop at Merah Putih restaurant, located near Petitenget Beach in the Seminyak area. This luxury Indonesian restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience and takes you on a journey through local cuisine. With innovative food and drinks boasting a Balinese flare, this is the perfect place to end your day.

Book a table to secure your spot and don’t miss out on these special gift vouchers. 

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