Bali is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island is part of Indonesia and sits off the coast of Java. With stunning sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and bright blue waters, it's no wonder Bali is a paradise for beach lovers. Here's a guide to the best beaches in Bali and what makes each one special.
Kuta Beach
Kuta is Bali's most famous beach and the top destination for surfing. Located on the southwest coast, it features a long sandy stretch with consistent waves that are suitable for beginner and intermediate surfers. The white sand slopes gently into the sea, creating good conditions for riding the waves. As one of the first tourist beaches in Bali, Kuta is lined with hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars. It has a lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. The beach is very popular with backpackers and younger travelers.
Seminyak Beach
Seminyak sits just north of Kuta and is a luxurious alternative. The beach has the same stretch of white sand and good waves for surfing. However, it's lined with high-end resorts, beach clubs, boutiques, and fine dining restaurants. Seminyak attracts a more upscale crowd who come to enjoy the sophisticated vibe. At sunset, locals and visitors gather on the sand to watch the dramatic, colorful sunsets.
Nusa Dua Beach
For those seeking a more private beach experience in southern Bali, Nusa Dua is an excellent choice. Large resorts with open grass lawns front the beach, providing stunning views of the sand and surf. But there are no loud beach clubs or vendors here. The resorts have their own beach clubs offering food, drinks, loungers, and water sports equipment rentals. With very gentle waves, Nusa Dua is ideal for families with little kids. The beach has clear, shallow waters good for snorkeling.
Canggu Beach
On Bali's south coast, just north of Seminyak, Canggu Beach is becoming the new "it" destination. The hip surf town has a laid back, relaxed vibe with chic restaurants and cafes lining the streets. The beach has breaks suitable for all levels of surfers. Yoga studios, organic shops, and art galleries add to the town's cool, alternative feel. Canggu attracts a younger crowd, with many digital nomads basing themselves here for the cool vibe and great surfing.
Padang Padang Beach
Dramatic limestone cliffs and rock formations surround this stunning beach on Bali's Bukit Peninsula. Padang Padang Beach is one of Bali's most photogenic strands because of its truly exotic landscape. The clear turquoise water is protected by the cliffs and coral reefs, creating calm conditions perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Experienced surfers can catch waves at the northern end of the beach. Padang Padang's characteristic staircase leads from the cliff down to the sand.
Crystal Bay Beach
For a quiet, secluded beach escape, head to Crystal Bay on Nusa Penida, an island just off the southeast coast of Bali. This curved beach has soft white sand and clear azure waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. A steep staircase through a narrow crevice in the cliffs leads down to the sand. The beach is surrounded by soaring limestone cliffs covered in lush greenery. The stunning scenery feels like a hidden paradise. Crystal Bay offers a serene natural environment away from crowds.
Balangan Beach
On Bali's Bukit Peninsula, Balangan Beach is a tropical paradise famous for its beautiful rolling waves. Surfers of all levels come here to ride the fun, tubing waves which break left and right along the reef. Even with its reputation as one of Bali's best surf spots, Balangan feels secluded with its rugged coastline. Swaying palm trees and a vibrant grassy hilltop separate the sandy beach from the paved parking area. Balangan Beach presents the classic tropical beach landscape of Bali.
Dreamland Beach
Dreamland is another renowned surf spot on Bali's Bukit Peninsula. The crescent-shaped, sandy beach has epic breaks along its reef. Surfers can catch very long rides here when the swell is big. The blue ocean turns to turquoise near the shore, rimmed by the golden sand. Despite its popularity, the long stretch of beach never gets too crowded. The grim faced cliffs and natural rock formations give Dreamland a distinctive landscape. Surf outlets rent boards and offer lessons for all abilities.
Conclusion
Bali spoils beach lovers with its incredible array of stunning sandy stretches. From family-friendly beaches to party beaches, and hidden coves to legendary surf spots, the island provides an idyllic beach escape. For the best beaches in Bali, visit the southwestern coast where gentle waves and golden sand give way to dramatic limestone cliffs up north. The combination of natural beauty, water sports, seaside temples, beach clubs, and relaxing resorts make Bali's beaches truly unforgettable.
