Best Beaches In Bali

Bali is known for its breathtaking beaches, with soft white sand, crystal clear waters and palm trees swaying in the breeze. The island has some of the best beaches in the world, each with its own distinct character and landscape. Here is a guide to the top 10 best beaches in Bali that you must visit on your next trip.

1. Seminyak Beach

Seminyak beach is one of the most famous beaches in Bali located in the busy area of Seminyak. This beautiful sandy beach is a popular spot for tourists to visit, offering a vibrant nightlife and atmosphere.

• Seminyak beach stretches for around 3.5 km length with smooth grey sand and is well maintained. It's one of the widest beaches in Bali, providing ample space for sunbathing and beach sports.
• The beach offers stunning sunset views in the evenings with the sun dipping into the ocean horizon with pink and purple hues filling the sky.
• Plenty of beach clubs, bars and restaurants provide refreshments and chilled out music by the beach. Head to Potato Head for creative cocktails and dinner with a view.
• You'll find top-end resorts and villas lining the coast, providing luxurious beachfront accommodation in Seminyak.
• Learn to surf at Seminyak - the waves here are suitable for beginner surfers wanting to catch their first wave. Surf schools offer boards and instructors.

2. Padang Padang Beach

Nestled on the Bukit Peninsula, Padang Padang Beach is a stunning hidden gem set amongst rocky cliffs and headlands. The secluded beach has soft white sand sheltered by huge overhanging rocks.

• You'll find this off-beaten track beach down a flight of stairs leading through a narrow entrance in the cliffs, adding to its secret beach appeal.
• The protected bay and clear blue waters provide excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions when the waves are calm.
• Surfers can enjoy rides on the left hand reef break, creating barrels near the entrance steps.
• Photogenic pandanus trees sprouting from the sand add to the tropical beach landscape.
• Small beach cafes are nearby providing refreshments, but overall the beach has a quiet and undiscovered vibe.
• Featured in the movie Eat Pray Love, the beautiful scenery at Padang Padang Beach was used as a filming location.

3. Nusa Dua Beach

Nusa Dua translates to "Two Islands" referring to the two small islets off the coastline. This well-maintained white sandy beach has very calm waters making it ideal for families. The beach fronts high-end beach resorts and hotels.

• With virtually no waves or currents, Nusa Dua Beach offers very safe swimming conditions for children. The water has very good visibility for snorkeling.
• Plenty of water sports equipment are available for rent, from jet skis to banana boats. There's also quality scuba diving in the clear waters.
• The wide beach has a long promenade great for sunrise or sunset walks. Beach restaurants line the boardwalk serving international cuisine.
• Nusa Dua has some of the most luxurious 5-star beach resorts in Bali like The Mulia and Grand Hyatt. The area hosts beach resorts, spas, golf courses and shopping malls.
• Close to the Nusa Dua beach area you'll also find the Bali National Golf Course, mangrove forest and a small fishing village called Tanjung Benoa.

4. Balangan Beach

This white sandy beach is located on Bali's Bukit Peninsula, flanked by grassy limestone cliffs. The relaxed vibes and great surfing waves draw travelers off the beaten track.

• With its secluded cove setting surrounded by cliffs, Balangan Beach has a private and undiscovered feel.
• Surfers will enjoy riding the left hand reef break which works best mid to high tide when off shore winds blow.
• After catching some waves, relax on the soft white sand lined by local warungs (local food stalls) and bars.
• Head down the stairs to access the beach through the low cliffs - vibrant green grass covers the landscapes.
• Photograph the picturesque views of the turquoise waters framed against the yellow sandstone cliffs.
• Stay until sunset to witness one of the most spectacular golden sunsets on the island with endless ocean views.

5. Kuta Beach

As one of Bali's first tourist beaches, Kuta Beach is the liveliest and most popular stretch of sand in Bali. Located near Bali's airport, the energetic atmosphere will keep you entertained for days.

• Kuta is the best area to stay for partying and nightlife - dance clubs blast electronic music into the night with drinks flowing.
• By day, Kuta Beach stretches for over 5km with white sand and rolling waves suitable for surfing and body boarding.
• Hawkers sell cheap souvenirs, cold drinks and snacks by the sun loungers as beachgoers soak up the sun and views of the waves.
• Kuta is very family friendly with shallow sea areas protected by lifeguards and plenty of cafes selling beach food like burgers and fries.
• Shop for bohemian fashion and accessories on Poppies Lane or at the Kuta Beachwalk shopping complex across the road from the sand.
• As one of the most developed beach areas in Bali, Kuta offers abundant accommodation from 5-star resorts to budget guesthouses.

FAQ

What is the best time of year to visit Bali's beaches?

The dry season from April to October is the best time to visit Bali's beaches when sunny days prevail with little rain. Sea conditions are calmest at this time of year.

Which beach in Bali has the whitest sand?

Seminyak Beach is blessed with the whitest and widest sandy beach in Bali. The smooth sand stretches for 3.5km and is well maintained by the local authorities.

Are there dangerous rip currents at Bali beaches?

Some of Bali's beaches like Kuta can develop strong rip currents during big wave conditions in the wet season. Always swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards are present for safety.

What should I wear to the beach in Bali?

Bali is a conservative island so avoid wearing anything too skimpy. Light shirts and shorts/sarongs are ideal beachwear. Topless sunbathing is prohibited by authorities.

Can I surf at all Bali's beaches?

Bali's best surfing beaches include Kuta, Seminyak, Padang Padang, Balangan and other exposed west coast beaches. Beginners should have lessons before surfing these breaks.

Conclusion

With serene black sand beaches, action-packed surf spots and luxurious getaways, Bali's diverse top 10 best beaches have something for everyone. Peaceful retreats, family fun, romantic dinners, jungle scenery and awesome waves all await. Pack your swimwear and experience the very best of beach life in magical Bali.