Best beaches in Bali

Although Bali is a multifaceted destination, with a wide range of cultural and natural activities, the island's main attraction lies in its beaches. These resorts, which are usually paradisiacal, with golden sand and turquoise waters, are very different from each other because of the environment that surrounds them and also because of the water activities that you can do in each of these places.

Some of the best things to do in Bali include visiting Nusa Lembongan beach in Nusa Penida, visiting Jimbaran beach, walking the golden sands of Padang Padang, taking in the luxury that surrounds Seminyak beach, marvelling at the tranquillity of Legian and exploring Batu Bolong, a surfer's paradise located in Canggu, just off the Bukit peninsula.

One of the three jewels of the Nusa Penida archipelago, Nusa Lembongan is the perfect destination for an exciting day trip from Bali. To reach this island paradise, which contains several beaches, you can either join an organised tour or arrive on your own on a boat trip of approximately two hours.

One of the gems awaiting visitors is Jungutbatu Beach, characterised by calm bays and crystal clear waters. This idyllic spot is the perfect setting for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, as it is home to a marine diversity in keeping with the region's coral reefs and offers areas suitable for all levels of experience.

Another must-see site on Nusa Lembongan is the picturesque Mushroom Bay, so named for the mushroom-shaped corals that adorn its waters. This crescent of dazzling tropical beauty offers visitors an unforgettable visual spectacle. Its turquoise waters and lush surroundings create a perfect setting for basking in the sun, exploring the marine life or simply relaxing on the beach in one of Bali's best spots.

The serene Jimbaran Beach lies south of the airport, in the direction of Denpasar to Nusa Dua, unfolding a stretch of tranquil and luxurious coastline that has gained popularity among water sports enthusiasts such as windsurfing, body surfing and sailing. This coastline stretches along 4 kilometres of soft sand and is distinguished by its clean and calm waters. What makes Jimbaran even more attractive is the natural protection provided by a coral reef that softens the force of the waves.

Although Jimbaran is known for its gentle waters, those looking for more challenging currents can head to the surf breaks near the airport. These spots offer exciting challenges for surfers looking for more intense experiences. The diversity of options makes Jimbaran a versatile destination that caters to both relaxation seekers and adventurous thrill seekers.

In addition to its natural features, Jimbaran is famous for its exquisite fresh seafood dishes. The beach is home to a wide variety of sophisticated restaurants and hotels that offer unparalleled dining experiences. It is also an ideal place to spend the afternoon before discovering the sunsets at Uluwatu, especially if you plan to visit Bali in the summer.

The picturesque Padang Padang Beach, considered one of Bali's coastal gems, captivates visitors with its white sand and turquoise waters. Strategically located just off Uluwatu Road, this beach sits at the mouth of a serene stream, adding a unique dimension to its natural appeal. Access to this paradise-like nook requires a walk that winds through a temple, adding a cultural tinge to the experience.

Padang Padang presents itself as one of Bali's hidden little coves that does not disappoint. Its charm lies not only in the beauty of its surroundings, but also in the sense of discovery that comes with accessing it. The beach offers a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle, where visitors can soak in the serene waters and relax on the soft sand.

In addition to its crystal clear waters and silky sand, Padang Padang is known for its relaxed atmosphere and connection with nature. The presence of the temple on the way to the beach adds a significant cultural element, providing visitors with an experience that embraces both natural beauty and local spirituality. The beach is also famous for having been one of the filming locations for the movie Eat, Pray, Love.

If you want to visit one of the most luxurious and exclusive places in Bali, you can't miss Seminyak Beach. With a long stretch of white sand, this beach serves as the setting for a beach experience that combines luxury with natural beauty. Along the coastline, you'll see jewellery shops, sophisticated restaurants and five-star hotels lining the shore, creating an elegant ambience.

In addition to its exclusive ambience, Seminyak is famous for its sunsets. The warm, golden hues that colour the horizon at the end of the day are a spectacle that attracts tourists and locals alike, especially if you plan to visit Bali in December or during the summer months when the skies are clear.

Seminyak is also very close to the Tanah Lot temple, so you can combine a visit to this religious building, which is one of the most important in Bali, with a relaxing afternoon on the beach waiting for the sun to set.

Like most beaches noted for its natural scenery, Sanur beach is located in the south of Bali and is defined as an aquatic Eden and an exceptional destination for snorkellers and scuba divers. This long, palm-fringed, family-friendly beach offers the perfect setting for exploring the wonders of the Balinese seabed.

For those travelling with children, Sanur Beach presents itself as a perfect choice. Its calm waters and the serenity that prevails throughout the day on the beach legends make this place a family oasis. Moreover, the coastline is dotted with hotels that blend harmoniously with the landscape, offering visitors accommodation options ranging from exclusive and luxurious to budget-friendly options.

Another fascinating activity that takes place in the vicinity of Sanur is the Bali Kite Festival, which is held from May to September just two kilometres away. This colourful and vibrant event adds a cultural and festive tinge to the Sanur experience, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the sky filled with artistic kites and enjoy the joyous and boisterous atmosphere that characterises this event.

For a unique experience, you can also cruise the coastline on a glass-bottom boat, an activity that is often listed as one of the best cruises in Bali.

Kuta beach, located on the Bukit peninsula, is recognised as the epicentre of nightlife and fun in Bali. Known as The Party Beach, Kuta is a coastal region offering several kilometres of sand where the symmetrical waves of the Indian Ocean disappear into the distance. In this lively area, where you'll find some of Bali's best nightlife, you can have a drink, take part in a gastronomic excursion or visit a nightclub.

Kuta's frenetic energy makes it a magnet for those looking for fun and excitement on the Balinese coast, and it's also a favourite destination for young people, who often choose this beach for Christmas in Bali or the holidays. As well as parties at all hours of the day, there's shopping and a wide range of water sports from surfing to scuba diving.

However, in addition to its lively day and nightlife, Kuta also offers options for those seeking relaxation and pampering. The beach is home to a multitude of spa centres, where you can enjoy rejuvenating treatments and sea breeze treatments.

Legian, Kuta's peaceful neighbour, presents itself as a haven of tranquillity in comparison to its bustling counterpart. The serenity that characterises Legian is largely due to the absence of the bustling road along the shore, allowing visitors to retreat into the silence that emanates from this little coastal gem.

The lack of tourist crowds compared to other beaches contributes to the local calm. There you can enjoy quality facilities and a variety of water sports options, from surfing to scuba diving. You can also hire equipment at the beach stalls and hire expert local guides to accompany you on a tour of the coastal waters.

There's plenty on offer, and the laid-back atmosphere invites you to explore the waters at your leisure, either from a comfortable sun lounger on the beach or from the deck of some of Bali's best cruise ships that ply the area.

To experience the richness of this beach, you can also watch the sunset at Legian, a very traditional activity on the island and often part of the best Bali tours.

Despite its modest size, Soka beach stands as a hidden gem in the Denpasar region. Its particular charm lies in its uniqueness: it is a rocky beach with dark-coloured sand, a stark contrast to the island's characteristic beaches. In addition, its small size gives Soka an intimate and peaceful atmosphere that distinguishes it from other Balinese coasts.

The serenity of Soka Beach is palpable in every corner of this coastal retreat. Its location away from the hustle and bustle of the city makes it a favourite spot for tourists seeking peace and quiet, and its proximity to the picturesque village from where cruise ships depart for the island of Java also lends a quaint and functional tinge to the beach.

The colour palette of Soka, with its rocks and dark sand, creates a visually stunning scene that originates from the mouth of the volcano at the top of Mount Batur. A strange combination of tectonic movements and seismic rearrangements made this corner of Bali one of the only volcanic sand beaches in the region.

Gili Trawangan, known as one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia, dazzles visitors with the beauty of its beaches, especially at its eastern end. This paradisiacal spot is also an ideal place for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, as its waters offer easy access to transparent areas where a wide variety of marine life such as colourful fish, coral reefs, sea turtles, parrot fish and manta rays can be spotted.

The beach of Gili Trawangan not only delights with its underwater wonders, but also transforms at sunset. As the sun sets, the coastline fills with lively street stalls offering the opportunity to enjoy local food and drinks with music playing in the background. Gili Trawangan's atmosphere is also a captivating blend of bohemian style with luxurious tones, creating an ambience that attracts travellers from all corners of the world.

This beach, which is often featured on the best full day tours from Bali, also offers an interesting beachfront dining experience at Scallywags Restaurant. Situated practically above the waves, this world-famous spot offers a perfect combination of culinary delights and unmissable views, allowing diners to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Gili Trawangan at dinnertime.

Batu Bolong stands out as a surfers' paradise and a place that combines the essence of Balinese culture with tantalising dining options. Recognised as the most popular area in Canggu, this beach attracts surfers from all over the world thanks to its ideal waves for surfing.

In addition to its surfing appeal, Batu Bolong is home to the Buddhist complex of Pura Batu Mejan, distinguished by its bizarre pagoda-style temple. This shrine adds a spiritual tinge to the coastal setting, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore Bali's rich cultural and religious heritage amidst the natural beauty of the beach.

The Batu Bolong experience is not complete without indulging in the incredible coffee, and for that, Monsieur Spoon and Betelnut Café are must-visit stops. These establishments, known for their excellence in the art of coffee, will offer you the opportunity to enjoy an aromatic cup in a relaxed and cosy atmosphere in Canggu.