4 of the best beaches in Bali
The best beach for diving
Because most of the beaches on the island of Bali have such incredible surf and waves, this does not make them ideal for diving. However, if you travel to the east of the island to Padangbai, you will find three paradisiacal white sand beaches and calm, transparent waters. This sleepy fishing village doesn’t attract as many visitors, which means the beaches are usually quiet and peaceful. Bloo Lagoon Beach, located near the Bloo Lagoon eco-resort just over the hill to the left, has some of the best snorkeling, with calm, clear water, scattered rocks and coral. Among the marine life, you can expect to see Napolean Wrasse, reef sharks, stonefish, moray eels, rays, squid, octopus, and blue ribbon eels. There is also a beautiful, secluded white sand beach up the hill to the right of town, which is lined with palm trees and is the closest thing to a tropical island paradise.
Best beach for people watching
If you are looking for a beautiful crowded beach, with lots of bars and restaurants and activities, then Seminyak is the beach for you. While the long, sandy beach isn’t as idyllic as some of the others on the island, it’s great for people-watching and attracts hundreds of tourists looking for fun in the sun. Seminyak Beach is an extension of Kuta Beach and is a long stretch of flat, hard-packed sand with waves perfect for learning to surf or trying out a boogie board. You can lie on a lounger with a Bintang or, if you’re feeling a bit more energetic, play a game of bat and ball. Seminyak Beach has one of the best sunset views, so if you can afford the price, grab a cocktail and watch the sun go down from Ku De Ta, Bali’s world-famous bar.
The best beach for maximum relaxation
Few backpackers have heard of this beach, but Balangan, in the south of the island, beyond Jimbaran, is one of the best places to relax and forget your worries. This sandy beach is lined with palm trees and is also a great spot for experienced surfers, with crystal clear waves gliding over the coral reef. You can relax on a lounger in front of one of the beach huts with a banana smoothie and a view of the waves, or take a dip in one of the many natural rock pools. As the tide goes out, you can take a walk around the reef to get a closer look at the surfers in action. Balangan is a tranquil tropical beach that will make you feel like you are a million miles from reality.
The best beach for experienced surfers
Uluwatu, on the southern tip of Bali, is famous for its temple perched dramatically on the cliffs. Tourists flock to Uluwatu to see the band of monkeys that run around the temple complex and to witness the traditional dance at sunset. But Uluwatu is also Bali’s most famous spot for experienced surfers and offers perfect waves during the high season when the swell is good. Pantai Suluban is protected by sheer cliffs, so on a windy day it’s perfect if you want to avoid getting sand in your eyes. Located on the cliffs, there are several warungs serving traditional Indonesian food like Nasi Goreng and banana pancakes, as well as a couple of ding repair shops and shops selling surf gear. Sit back and take in the amazing views with a spot for lunch or walk down the steep steps to the pebbly beach where you’ll find cool caves and rock pools.