Let’s be honest — not all Bali beaches live up to the hype. Some are packed, others are rough, and a few are just straight-up overrated. But when you know where to go, you’ll find soft sand, swimmable water, scenic cliffs, and enough variety to keep everyone happy.
This guide breaks down the best beaches in Bali by what they’re actually good for — whether you’re here to swim, surf, snorkel, chase sunsets, or just find a quiet patch of sand away from the crowds. No fluff, no filters, just the beaches that are actually worth your time.
Map of Best Beaches in Bali
Best Beaches in Bali for Swimming
Bali isn’t exactly known for calm waters — a lot of the coastline is better suited to surfers than swimmers. But there are a few beaches where the waves chill out, the currents are manageable, and you can actually enjoy a swim without getting tossed around. These are the best beaches in Bali for swimming:
Sanur Beach – South Bali
Sanur Beach doesn’t get the hype that beaches in Canggu or Uluwatu do, but it’s incredibly good for swimming — especially if you’re not into waves. The shallow water is protected by a long reef, which keeps everything calm and almost lagoon-like at low tide.
It’s great for kids, older travelers, or anyone who just wants a safe, easy swim. The beach path runs for several kilometers and makes for a solid morning walk before jumping in.
📍 Location: Pantai Sanur
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 2,000 (parking)
Virgin Beach – Karangasem, East Bali
Virgin Beach lives up to the name — soft white sand, clean water, and way fewer crowds than the southern hotspots. It’s one of the best beaches in Bali if you’re after something low-key but still swimmable, with sunbeds, warungs, and even kayak rentals available.
It’s a bit of a drive (about 20 minutes from Sidemen ) and you’ll head down a winding hill before reaching the beach. But the view is worth it. You can also stop here during our East Bali Day Tour, especially if you’re looking to relax after visiting temples and viewpoints inland.
📍 Location: Jl. Raya Bukit Asah
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 20,000
Pandawa Beach – South Bali
Pandawa is easily one of the best beaches in Bali for swimming — calm, clear water, soft white sand, and plenty of space to stretch out. It’s clean, scenic, and usually quiet in the morning before the tour buses roll in.
The limestone cliffs give it a unique look, and the beach is easy to access with on-site parking. If you want some shade or a bite to eat, Roosterfish Beach Club nearby is one of the more laid-back, family-friendly options in the area.
📍 Location: Pantai Pandawa
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 15,000
Crystal Bay – Nusa Penida
Crystal Bay is one of the few beaches on Nusa Penida that’s actually easy to swim at — no cliff hikes, no crashing waves, just a gentle sandy bay with clear water and minimal current on most days.
It’s not ideal for kids (it gets deep quickly), but if you’re a confident swimmer, it’s a great spot to cool off between sightseeing stops.
It’s also one of the popular stops on our Nusa Penida Day Tour, which gives you time to unwind, grab a coconut, or jump in for a quick swim before heading back to the harbor.
📍 Location: Crystal Bay Beach
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Bias Tugel Beach – Padang Bai
Nar the Padang Bai Harbour, Bias Tugel is a small bay with bright water and decent conditions for swimming. It’s a bit of a walk down (about 10 minutes), but that means fewer people and a quieter vibe. The waves are usually manageable, though they can pick up with the tide, so check conditions before diving in.
There are a few beach warungs for drinks and snacks, and the sand is soft enough to lounge on all day. It feels like one of those “secret beaches” but still has just enough infrastructure to make it practical.
📍 Location: Padangbai, Manggis, Karangasem
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 10,000
Best Beaches in Bali for Sunsets
Sunsets in Bali are kind of a big deal. Every evening, people head west to find a good patch of sand, a cold drink, and a clear horizon. Some spots are crowded, others are hidden — but these are the best beaches in Bali to catch the sunset, whether you want a front-row seat with your feet in the sand or a quiet cliff view.
Jimbaran Beach – South Bali
Jimbaran Beach is one of the few places in Bali where you can eat fresh seafood right on the sand while the sun sets over the ocean. The beach stretches wide and flat, so there’s plenty of space, and the light tends to linger longer over the bay.
It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable — a good swim in the morning, and a calm, colorful sunset in the evening. Come just before dusk, grab a table at one of the warungs, and you’re sorted.
📍 Location: Jimbaran, South Kuta
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Seminyak Beach – South Bali
If you’re after sunset with a bit of Bali beach energy, Seminyak Beach delivers. The beach is huge, the horizon is wide open, and the beach clubs (like Ku De Ta and Potato Head) turn it into an event every evening.
It’s not one of the quietest sunset beaches in Bali, but it’s one of the most iconic — especially if you want drinks, music, and crowds clapping when the sun dips.
📍 Location: Pantai Seminyak
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 2,000 (parking)
Echo Beach – Canggu
Echo Beach is a little grittier than Seminyak, but still one of the best beaches in Bali for sunsets. The waves crash harder, the crowd is a bit more local-surfer-meets-digital-nomad, and the view is just as solid.
Make your way to La Brisa Beach Club (home to the La Brisa Sunday Market) to grab a sunset dinner and some cocktails to end the daylight and maybe transition into the nightlife.
📍 Location: Jl. Munduk Kedungu, Pererenan
🎟️ Entrance fee: Free (park in La Brisa)
Amed Beach – East Bali
Amed is usually known for sunrise and diving, but parts of the coastline — especially around Amed Beach— curve just enough to catch the sunset. You don’t get the sun dropping into the ocean, but you do get golden light behind Mount Agung, which makes for some seriously dramatic views.
It’s become enough of a thing that there’s even a spot called Sunset Point — a cliffside lookout with bean bags and cold drinks, and yes, it gets busy every evening. If you’re staying overnight in Amed, it’s absolutely worth heading up there to watch the light fade behind the volcano.
📍 Location: Pantai Amed
🎟️ Entrance fee: Free
Best Beaches in Bali for Sunrises
Bali might be more famous for its sunsets, but if you’re an early riser, you’ll be rewarded. These are some of the best beaches in Bali to watch the sunrise — whether you want still water, volcanic coastline, or just a peaceful start to your day.
Sunrise Beach – Sanur
Sunrise Beach (Pantai Matahari Terbit) in Sanur Bali is the definitely most popular sunrise beach in Bali, and it lives up to the hype. You’ve got a long stretch of calm, walkable shoreline, reef protection, and clear views of the sun coming up over the water.
The light hits the fishing boats (jukung) just right, it’s easy to reach, safe, and well-kept — which is why it’s one of the best beaches in Bali if you want a no-stress, iconic sunrise.
📍 Location: Sanur Kaja, Denpasar Selatan
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Nusa Dua Beach – South Bali
Calm, manicured, and lined with upscale resorts, Nusa Dua Beach makes sunrise feel almost too easy. The tide sits low early in the morning, creating reflective pools and soft light across the sand.
It might not be dramatic, but for convenience and beauty combined, it’s one of the best beaches in Bali for a quiet, easy sunrise.
📍 Location: Pantai Nusa Dua
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Keramas Beach – Gianyar
Most people hit Keramas Beach for the surf, but it also delivers seriously underrated sunrises. The black sand, strong waves, and wide ocean horizon make it a moody but photogenic morning spot.
It’s not the prettiest Bali beach on this list, but if you want something more rugged, it earns its spot among the best beaches in Bali to watch the sunrise.
📍 Location: Pantai Keramas St No.80551, Keramas
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 2,000 (parking)
Best Beaches in Bali for Surfing
If you’re coming to Bali with a board — or at least the fantasy of riding a wave — you’re spoiled for choice. From heavy reef breaks in Uluwatu to mellow longboard spots on the west coast, here are some of the best beaches in Bali for surfing, whether you’re a seasoned ripper or just figuring out which foot goes forward.
👉 See Also: Best Beaches in Uluwatu
Uluwatu Beach – Uluwatu
This is Bali’s surf capital. Uluwatu Beach has several reef breaks, best accessed through a cave that opens right onto the surf lineup. It’s consistent, powerful, and offers multiple peaks depending on tide and swell — Racetracks, Temples, The Peak.
The wave isn’t for beginners, but it’s a rite of passage for experienced surfers. After your session, grab a cold Bintang and watch the sunset from Single Fin above the cliffs. It doesn’t get more classic than this.
📍 Location: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Medewi Beach – West Bali
Medewi is a longboarder’s dream. The left-hand point break here peels forever over a cobblestone bottom, making it one of the longest rides in Bali. The wave is mellow, smooth, and forgiving — great for intermediates or anyone who just wants to cruise.
It’s far from the Canggu–Uluwatu scene, so the vibe is slower and the lineup’s less crowded. You’ll see locals, old-school expats, and the occasional surf camp crowd.
📍 Location: Jl. Pantai Medewi, Medewi
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 2,000 (parking)
Padang Padang Beach – Uluwatu
Padang Padang Beach is legendary. The main break is a hollow left that barrels hard over shallow reef — advanced surfers only. But there’s also a smaller wave closer to shore, often used for surf lessons or mellow sessions when the tide is right.
The beach itself is beautiful (and often crowded), with a narrow staircase entrance and a mix of surfers, sunbathers, and Instagram influencers. Even if you’re not surfing, it’s worth the visit.
📍 Location: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 15,000
Balian Beach – West Bali
Balian Beach is part surf break, part hidden gem. The wave is powerful but more forgiving than Uluwatu — a mix of lefts and rights that work well on mid to high tide. It breaks over sand and stone, making it a little safer than reef-heavy spots.
The black sand, misty hills, and laid-back village make Balian feel like a time capsule. It’s not on most tourists’ radars, but for surfers who want solid waves and zero scene, it’s one of the best surf beaches in Bali.
📍 Location: Lalanglinggah, Selemadeg Barat
🎟️ Entrance fee: Free
Batu Bolong Beach – Canggu
Batu Bolong Beach is Bali’s unofficial beginner surf HQ. The wave breaks slow and soft over a sandy bottom, making it ideal for learning the basics. You’ll find surf schools and rentals everywhere, boards stacked like firewood, and more whitewash than open face — which is exactly what most first-timers want.
Yes, it’s crowded. And yes, the lineup can be chaotic. But if you’re just trying to stand up for the first time (or rent a foam board for a few hours), this is where you go. It’s one of the best beaches in Bali for beginners, no question. Plus, you’ll be right beside the famous Old Man’s Canggu.
📍 Location: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong, Canggu
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Kuta Beach – South Bali
Kuta gets a bad rap, but for beginner surfers, it’s actually one of the easiest places to start. The beach break stretches for kilometers, the bottom is sandy, and there’s always a wave to catch. It’s not stylish, but it’s practical.
Surf schools are cheap, boards are everywhere, and there’s enough whitewash to get you standing without wiping out on coral. If you’re staying nearby and just want to try surfing without overthinking it, Kuta still works.
📍 Location: Kuta, Badung Regency
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Best Beaches in Bali for Snorkelling
Bali’s not the Maldives, but it still has some solid snorkelling if you know where to go. The water clarity varies by location and tide, but these are the best beaches in Bali for snorkelling — whether you want coral gardens, calm bays, or just a quick dip with a mask and fins.
Blue Lagoon – Padang Bai
Blue Lagoon Beach is a small beach just north of Padang Bai Harbour, and despite its size, it packs a punch for snorkelling. Coral starts close to shore, and the bay is shallow, making it ideal for beginners. Expect parrotfish, angelfish, and sometimes turtles if you’re lucky.
Water clarity depends on tide and weather, but when it’s good, it’s great. Avoid ferry peak times — the area gets boat traffic noise during midday.
📍 Location: FGC7+38M, Padangbai, Manggis
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 2,000–5,000 (parking)
Gamat Bay – Nusa Penida
Gamat Bay is less developed than Crystal Bay and harder to reach, but the underwater life here is better. Expect vibrant coral, reef drop-offs, and a solid mix of fish. The current can be tricky, though, so most people come here as part of a guided snorkelling trip by boat.
It’s not ideal for beginners swimming from shore — but if you’re doing a snorkel tour around the island, Gamat Bay is one of the best stops you’ll make.
📍 Location: 7FX9+HM5, Sea, Kec. Nusa Penida
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Menjangan Island – North Bali
Okay, this one’s not technically a “beach” you can walk to — you’ll need to take a boat from Pemuteran. But Menjangan Island is often ranked among the best snorkelling spots in Bali, with crystal-clear water, vibrant reefs, and vertical coral walls you won’t find anywhere else on the island.
It’s a bit of a mission to get here (Northwest Bali), but if snorkelling is the priority, this is where you want to go.
📍 Location: Sumber Klampok, Gerokgak, Buleleng Regency
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 200,000
Most Scenic Beaches in Bali
Bali has no shortage of scenic beaches, but not all of them are great for swimming — and that’s fine. Some are better for the views than the water. If you’re just here for the photo, the drone shot, or to feel like you’ve stepped into a travel brochure, these are the best beaches in Bali for those Instagram shots.
Diamond Beach – Nusa Penida
Diamond Beach isn’t just scenic — it’s absurdly beautiful. You get jagged limestone cliffs, neon-blue water, and a white sand cove that looks like it was photoshopped. The dramatic viewpoint at the top of the staircase is the real showstopper — it’s where everyone takes that “I’m in Bali” shot you’ve probably seen a hundred times.
The stairs carved into the cliffside are steep but manageable, and while the beach isn’t great for swimming (strong waves, no lifeguards), it’s perfect for soaking up the view and snapping photos. Easily one of the most scenic beaches in Bali, especially early in the morning before the crowds roll in.
📍 Location: Pejukutan, Nusa Penida
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 45,000, IDR 5,000 (parking)
Melasti Beach – Ungasan
Melasti has it all — dramatic limestone cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and wide sandy shores that look even better from above. It’s well-maintained, easy to access, and sits close to the southernmost point of Bali, which adds to its open, panoramic feel.
The winding road that cuts through the cliffs is a photo spot in its own right, and the whole area is a favorite for drone shots, wedding shoots, and general Instagram glory. Come early or close to sunset for the best light (and fewer people).
📍 Location: Jl. Melasti Ungasan
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 10,000
Jemeluk Bay – Amed, East Bali
Jemeluk Bay is the best snorkelling spot in Amed, and one of the easiest snorkel-from-the-shore experiences in Bali. The coral reef starts just a few meters out, and the water is usually calm in the morning. Visibility is decent on most days, especially around 8–10am before the wind picks up.
You’ll see reef fish, an underwater temple garden, and maybe even a turtle if you’re lucky. No boat needed, no fees — just rent gear from a local shop, walk in, and go. It’s about as low-effort as snorkelling gets.
📍 Location: Amed St, Bunutan, Abang
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Hidden Gem Beaches in Bali
Not every beach in Bali is packed with tourists and smoothie bowls. If you’re willing to go a bit off the map — or down a few too many stairs — you’ll find quiet coves, dramatic backdrops, and stretches of sand with barely anyone on them. These are the best hidden gem beaches in Bali, for when you want a beach day without the chaos.
Nunggalan Beach – Uluwatu
Nunggalan Beach is one of those Bali beaches people think they’ve discovered — and honestly, it still feels that way. Tucked below a forested cliff near a small temple, it takes a short 15-minute hike to reach, but you’re rewarded with a long stretch of golden sand, towering cliffs, and almost no one else around.
There’s even an old shipwreck rusting into the sand, which adds to the post-apocalyptic charm. No vendors, no beach clubs — just raw coastline and the sound of waves. One of the few hidden beaches in Bali that’s still genuinely off the radar, even though it’s not far from Uluwatu’s main roads.
📍 Location: Jl. Batu Nunggalan, Pecatu
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Mejan Beach – West Bali
Mejan Beach (a very common name) is one of the few true hidden gem beaches left in Bali — and it’s just a 5-minute drive from Balian Beach. You’ll pass through rice fields and cow pastures before the road ends at a small temple perched on a cliff. From there, it’s a short walk down to a massive black sand beach that feels completely untouched.
There are no signs, no stalls, and no crowds — just a wide, empty coastline with a cliff at one end and the open sea stretching out in front of you. If you’re already in Balian, it’s absolutely worth the detour.
📍 Location: GWFJ+RP4, Jalan Pantai Mejan
🎟️ Entrance fee: Free
Nyang Nyang Beach – Uluwatu
Nyang Nyang is one of the longest and emptiest beaches on the Bukit, and getting there is half the reason it stays that way. You’ll need to hike down a steep set of stairs through thick greenery, which keeps the flip-flop crowd away. But once you reach the bottom, you’re rewarded with a wild stretch of white sand, backed by cliffs and barely a soul in sight.
There’s nothing fancy here just raw coastline and the sound of waves. It’s not great for swimming, but if you want a beach that actually feels hidden, Nyang Nyang delivers among the best beaches in Bali.
📍 Location: Jl. Raya Uluwatu Pecatu
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Lovina Beach – North Bali
Okay, this one’s not exactly a hidden gem — but it feels like one because hardly anyone makes it this far north. Lovina Bali is a laid-back beach town with black volcanic sand, calm water, and long empty stretches of coastline that stay quiet even during high season.
If you’re heading up here for a Lovina dolphin watching tour (which is what most people come for), carve out some time to actually enjoy the beach. It’s peaceful, the sunsets are underrated, and the vibe is nothing like the south — slower, quieter, and way less built up. For a chilled-out beach day with barely anyone around, Lovina is a solid detour.
📍 Location: Pantai Lovina
🎟️ Entrance fee: IDR 5,000 (parking)
Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Bali
If you’re traveling with kids (or just want an easy beach day with no surprises), these are the safest bets. Calm water, easy access, food nearby, and enough space to spread out — these are the best beaches in Bali for families with kids, without overthinking it.
- Sanur Beach – Shallow water, reef protection, and a beachfront path that’s stroller-friendly. Perfect for toddlers and early morning swims.
- Nusa Dua Beach – Flat, calm, and spotless. Ideal for younger kids, nervous swimmers, and families staying in nearby resorts.
- Jimbaran Bay – Soft waves, wide sand, and seafood warungs right on the beach. Safe, relaxed, and close to the airport.
- Pandawa Beach – Calm water, plenty of space, and facilities nearby. One of the few South Bali beaches that’s scenic and practical for families.
How to Get to the Best Beaches in Bali
Getting to the best beaches in Bali isn’t always as easy as jumping in a Grab. Some are well-connected, others involve steep stairs, dirt roads, or crossing half the island. Here’s what you need to know:
- Hire a private car and driver if you want to beach-hop without dealing with parking, navigation, or scooter drama. It’s the easiest way to hit multiple beaches in one day — especially in Uluwatu or Nusa Penida. Book a private driver here.
- Scooters are fine if you’re confident and don’t mind heat, traffic, or tight parking. Just be careful — Bali’s roads aren’t beginner-friendly, and some beach access points are steep or remote. Read my scooter guide here.
- Nusa Penida beaches require a fast boat from Sanur, and most beaches there involve a hike once you arrive. If you’re doing a day trip, we strongly recommend booking a private driver in advance to save time. Here’s the tour we run.
- Walkable beaches like Sanur, Kuta, and Seminyak are easy if you’re staying nearby. Just check your hotel’s access before assuming you can step onto the sand in seconds.
Final Thoughts
No matter what kind of trip you’re planning — yoga retreat, surf trip, honeymoon, or just a quick escape from your desk job — visiting a beach in Bali is non-negotiable. Even if you’re based inland in Ubud, it’s worth taking a day to head south, east, or across to the Nusa islands and spend some time by the ocean.
There’s something about Bali’s beaches — whether it’s the salty breeze, the crash of waves, or just lying in the sand doing absolutely nothing — that resets your brain in the best way possible. You don’t need to surf, snorkel, or even swim. Just being there is enough. It’s the kind of calm you came to Bali for.
So yes, pack your towel, skip a temple for a day, and go find your spot in the sand. You won’t regret it.
FAQs about Bali Beaches
What is the nicest beach in Bali?
Nusa Dua Beach often tops the list for its clean white sand, calm water, and well-maintained surroundings. It’s ideal for swimming, walking, and relaxing without the chaos.
Which side of Bali has the best beaches?
The south coast has the widest variety — from the calm waters of Nusa Dua and Jimbaran to the surf breaks of Uluwatu and Canggu. If you’re after dramatic cliffs and scenic views, head to the Bukit Peninsula.
Where are the best white sand beaches in Bali?
Top picks include Sanur, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Pandawa, and Balangan. These beaches offer soft white sand and are generally easy to acces
Which beach in Bali has the clearest water?
Blue Lagoon near Padang Bai is known for its crystal-clear water and is great for snorkelling. Nusa Dua also has clear, calm water thanks to its protective reef.
What is the most Instagrammable beach in Bali?
Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida is the most photographed, thanks to its T-Rex-shaped cliff and dramatic viewpoint. Diamond Beach and Melasti Beach also rank high for scenic shots.
What is the best swimming beach in Bali?
Sanur and Nusa Dua are the safest for swimming — both have calm, shallow water protected by reefs. Jimbaran Bay is another good option with gentle waves.
Are all beaches in Bali black sand?
No — Bali has both black and white sand beaches. The black sand comes from volcanic activity and is mostly found in the east and north (like Amed and Lovina). The south coast and Bukit Peninsula have the classic white sand beaches.
Which beach is best for families in Bali?
Sanur, Nusa Dua, and Jimbaran are the most family-friendly — calm water, clean sand, and easy access to food and facilities. Pandawa is also a solid pick with plenty of space.
What is the calmest beach in Bali?
Nusa Dua is the calmest overall, thanks to its offshore reef. Sanur is also very mellow, especially in the mornings before the tide goes out.
Where is the best beach to learn surfing in Bali?
Kuta Beach is the go-to for beginners — soft sand, forgiving waves, and tons of surf schools. Seminyak and Batu Bolong in Canggu are also beginner-friendly.
Comments
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