10 Best Beaches in Uluwatu (Updated January 2025)

New year, same favorites! Having been based in Bali for over ten years, we at The Shivanna have seen the dynamic changes in beach trends across Bali. And one of the best beaches that stood the test of time is definitely the beaches in Uluwatu.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy the waves, lounging in the sand, or experiencing its beauty from aboard The Shivanna, our insider guide will break down some of the best beaches in Uluwatu to visit in 2025 based on our guests’ experiences and our local crews!

Padang Padang Beach

Tucked away amidst soaring cliffs of limestone, Padang Padang Beach, is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Uluwatu. Locally known as Labuan Sait Beach, this beach emanates an intimate and secluded atmosphere impossible not to fall in love with. Just ask Julia Robert’s character in the hit movie “Eat, Pray, Love”! 

A movie-famous cove with dramatic limestone entrance, white sandy shores, and crystal-clear waters. Known locally as "Labuan Sait." 

Best Time to Visit Padang Padang Beach

The months of January through March are still within the wet season window. However, this makes for a less crowded Padang Padang Beach and exciting waves for expert surfers. 

Insider Tips for Padang Padang Beach

Be prepared for a 10-minute hike going in and out of the beach on a steep staircase (over 100 steps). It might sound daunting if you’re travelling with kids, but with careful planning, you can make it a family adventure to remember.

Surf Conditions in Padang Padang Beach

For advanced surfers, there are plenty of reef breaks with barrels that can reach up to 50 metres on a good day, making it an iconic venue for international surf competitions. Beginners can try their expertise around Baby Padang spots. You can join a surf school in Padang PAdang to polish up your skills before heading to bigger waves.

The best weather conditions are around May - September. Find out more in this comprehensive guide for surfers!

Where to Eat near Padang Padang Beach

Local street vendors will offer you fresh coconuts, grilled corn, and more. You can stop by Dugong Restaurant, Bar & Lounge for a hearty meal before a day of activities or visit the iconic Milk & Madu branch.

Additional Fees for Padang Padang Beach

Where is Padang Padang Beach?

Jl. Labuan Sait, Pecatu, Uluwatu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, or you can click on the location button below.

Bingin Beach

Several of our guests who are avid surfers claim that Bingin Beach is one of their favorite beaches to visit. Hence, one of the best beaches in Uluwatu. Just like Padang Padang beach, you need to go down a steep, carved staircase. But don’t worry, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean along the way.

And if you’re not here for the waves, definitely stay for the sun and sand. A day at Bingin Beach is definitely worth it.

Best Time to Visit Bingin Beach

Sunrise (5:30-7 AM): Best for photographers and surfers

Low tide: Reveals wide sandy beach perfect for sunbathing

Insider Tips for Bingin Beach

Stay on the marked paths when descending. Consider booking accommodations on the cliff for easier beach access!

Surf Conditions at Bingin Beach

The waves at Bingin Beach attract experienced surfers from around the world, creating a vibrant surfing community around this area. There are several surf spots in Bingin Beach that you can visit to polish up on your surfing skills. However, these may be for a more advanced surfer.

Where to Eat near Bingin Beach

Lucky Fish Lounge is nestled right on the coast of Bingin Beach so you can simply stop by after a day of fun in the sun for some freshly grilled fish. There are also local street vendors with treats like grilled corn, lumpia, and more.

Additional Fees

Where is Bingin Beach?

Jl. Pantai Bingin, Pecatu, Uluwatu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, or you can click on the location button below.

Dreamland Beach

Living up to its name, Dreamland Beach, also known as New Kuta Beach, is a well-developed destination perfect for families and beachgoers seeking convenience.  The beach is loved for its 100m stretch of soft white sand and calm waters, making it one of the best beaches in Uluwatu for swimming with astonishing sunset views.

Best Time to Visit Dreamland Beach

Morning (8-10 AM): Swimming in azure waters and suntanning in the warm sands.

Sunset (5-6.30 PM): Catch the brilliant blazing skies as surfers come home from the swells of the day.

Insider Tips for Dreamland Beach

Dreamland Beach is situated in the heart of the Pecatu complex, nestled amid world-class resorts and lush golf courses for family-friendly fun.

Surf Conditions at Dreamland Beach

Dreamland Beach is one of the first beaches in Uluwatu renowned for its surfability. For optimal surfing conditions, the dry season (April - October) is the best time to visit Dreamland for a surfing experience.

Where to Eat Near Dreamland Beach

From cozy warungs, local vendors, to trendy beach clubs like Klappa Beach Club within walking distance for before or after a moment of fun in the waves, Dreamland offers a variety of culinary delights. 

Additional Fees 

Where is Dreamland Beach?Jl. Pantai New Kuta, Pecatu, Uluwatu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, or you can click on the location button below.

Balangan Beach

The viral picturesque cliff of Balangan Beach has become one of our guests’ favorite destinations! Seeing the dramatic edges of the island as a 200m stretch of sand in between is quite a wonder.

Best Time to Visit Balangan Beach

Balangan Beach is best visited year round. Dry season (April - September) is best for sunnier days, although you can expect a higher tourist density. Wet season means rain, but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying some of the best waves on the island!

Insider Tips for Balangan Beach

Don’t miss out on Instagrammable moments like these! Snap a picture from the eastern cliffs that overlook the coves.

Weekdays are usually less crowded. Come at 5 PM, just in time before sunset-chasers flock the shore to capture the beautiful golden hour.

Surfing Conditions at Balangan Beach

Balangan Beach is a favorite among left-hander enthusiasts. With steep walls, the waves at this beach are recommended for intermediate to experienced surfers as you require a good amount of speed.

Where to Eat Near Balangan Beach

Bella Bali offers tasty and affordable comfort food, but the views that come with it are absolutely priceless! If you’re craving smoothie bowls and brunch essentials, you can walk a little further to Jimmy Beach cafe.

Additional Fees

Where is Balangan Beach?Jl. Pantai Balangan, Pecatu, Uluwatu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, or you can click on the location button below.

Suluban Beach

The name “Suluban” translates to crouching or passing under something, very fitting for its access through a cave-like opening in the cliffs. Blessed with its enchanting beauty and terrific surf breaks, Suluban Beach makes it to every list of the best beaches in Uluwatu.

Due to its secluded location, the beach retains a serene and less crowded yet vibrant atmosphere. If you’re wondering if Suluban beach is good for swimming, we don’t recommend it. For a more comprehensive guide on the best beaches in Uluwatu for swimming, check out this guide to help you!

Best Time to Visit Suluban Beach

Low tides are the best time to visit this cave formation. Not only will you enjoy more sandy spaces, you can also marvel at the exposed rocky reefs.

Insider Tips for Suluban Beach

Suluban Beach is all about secret coves and hidden paths, and the low tide is the best way to explore. Our guests have discovered a few themselves, and each visit has them discovering new paths! Just make sure to return before the tide comes in.

Surfing conditions at Suluban Beach

Suluban Beach has considerably massive waves, making it another favorite beach to visit among our local surf enthusiasts.

Where to eat near Suluban Beach.

Consider bringing your own food if you’re spending the day in the sand because there are no local vendors like in most beaches. There are more eateries by the cliffs before entering the beach area.

Additional Fees 

Where is Suluban Beach?

Jl. Pantai Suluban, Pecatu, Uluwatu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, or you can click on the location button below.

Green Bowl Beach

Green Bowl Beach is named after the green algae-covered rocks visible during low tide, adding to the allure of this white-sand beach. It’s quite the sight when you see it from afar, so if you’re thinking about renting our private charter around Uluwatu, we’ll definitely recommend adding this spot to your list.

A true hidden paradise, Green Bowl Beach demands a bit of adventure to reach, but the effort is rewarded with unspoiled beauty. There is no doubt that this pristine beach deserves to be on our list of best beaches in Uluwatu.

Best time to visit Green Bowl Beach

Dry season: During the low tide, there is better water visibility, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling!

Low tide: It’s best to visit Green Bowl beach during the low tide as the paths are much easier to explore on foot.

Insider tips for Green Bowl Beach

Just like some of the aforementioned beaches on this list, Green Bowl Beach also comes with a small hike down the cliff to get to the beach area. We’ ve advised our guests to also be aware of cheeky monkeys surrounding the top of the cliff, so keep your belongings close.

Surfing conditions at Green Bowl Beach

Green Bowl beach offers some of the strongest currents, making it require a higher level of expertise from surfers. We recommend more intermediate to advanced surfers to conquer the swells. The best surfing conditions in Green Bowl Beach during the dry season where the weather is relatively calmer, and consider an early morning surf for the best wind conditions.

Where to eat near Green Bowl Beach?

Due to its highly secluded nature, you won’t find many dining options or local vendors for a quick bite on the beach. Most proper eateries are a scooter ride away, while you can get water and some chips from local vendors before beginning your descent on the stairs.

You can find several beach clubs along the way to Green Bowl Beach, such as Sunday’s Beach Club for an exquisite view and exclusive entrance to the beach. Enjoy classic brunch menus, tasty cocktails, and more. 

Additional Fees 

Where is Green Bowl Beach?

Jl. Pura Green Bowl, Ungasan, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, or click on the location button below.

Nyang Nyang Beach

For most of our guests, Nyang Nyang Beach is hands-down one of the best beaches because it has something to offer everyone!

Nyang Nyang Beach is less crowded, most popular among experienced surfers, making it an idyllic spot for beachcombing, sunbathing, and nature photography. Walk through its cliffside openings and beach coves to hide from the sun!

And for the adrenaline junkies, Nyang Nyang beach is one of the perfect places to soar with paragliding experience, soaring over the fantastic waves! 

Best Time to Visit Nyang Nyang Beach

Early morning: Early mornings are the perfect time to enjoy Nyang Nyang Beach as the sun isn’t too high yet and you get to secure the perfect spot in the sand.

Sunset: As an east-facing beach, the unobstructed sunset views are perfect in this beach, making it one of the best sunset spots in Uluwatu. 

(read here for more sunset spots near Nyang Nyang beach!)

Insider tips for Nyang Nyang Beach

While locals consider Nyang Nyang beach as one stretch of warm white sand, some call the easternmost end as Nunggalan Beach. Technically, you can enter the beach from both entrances. However, we recommend our guests to enter through the western side with a scooter, with a toll booth. You can park your vehicle before walking down the steep incline to the beach.

From the Nunggalan Beach entrance, although relatively easier, you’ll need to trek through hidden trails and rolling fields before finding an off-beat path that leads to the beach. If you plan to stop by this beach too, you can opt to walk along the shore during the low tide from one beach to the next. And don’t forget to snap a pic at the iconic shipwreck at Nunggalan Beach!

Surfing Conditions at Nyang Nyang Beach

Nyang Nyang Beach is another surfers’ paradise, with rocky reefs that make great swells for the more experienced swimmers. 

Where to Eat in Nyang Nyang Beach

You’ll find plenty of warungs atop the cliffs and several local vendors down on the sand for some refreshing bottled waters and snacks for before and after your hike. If you’re looking for something more hearty, Utilis Bali Bar offers cool Bintang bears to cool down in the sun with a side of tasty skewers.

Additional Fees 

Where is Nyang Nyang Beach?

Nyang Nyang Beach is located at Jl. Batu Nunggul, Pecatu, Uluwatu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, or you can click on the location button below.

Thomas Beach

Thomas Beach, nestled between Padang Padang Beach and Suluban Beach, is one of the best beaches in Uluwatu as it offers a slice of secluded paradise. It is the perfect spot for those seeking a more laid-back and less touristy experience.

To indulge in this private beach experience amid the 200-meter stretch of silky white sand, you need to go through quite a bit of a steep walk down. But rest assured, it will be worth every step. With no cliffs blocking your views, this is one of our guests’ favorite beaches to visit!

Best time to visit Thomas Beach

Morning: Thomas Beach is one of the best beaches in Uluwatu for swimming if you arrive early, preferably before 11 AM. Bring the little ones over to witness the vibrant sea life in the tide pools and explore the exposed reefs during the morning low tide.

Insider tips for Thomas Beach

Like most beaches in Uluwatu, be prepared for a steep descent down cliffside steps so be sure to wear something comfortable. Also, consider leaving right after snapping a few sunset pictures as there is little to no light at this secluded spot, so it’s better to leave before it gets too dark.

Surfing Conditions at Thomas Beach

Thomas Beach offers a sandy floor perfect for beginner surfers with left-hand surf breaks.  Since Thomas Beach is situated between two popular surf areas, this beach often gets overlooked, making it the perfect place with fewer crowds. Surf schools are aplenty so you won’t have to worry about your surfing skills.

Where to eat at Thomas Beach?

There are plenty of beachside warungs that offer simple meals like fried rice and tasty noodles to fuel up after a day of fun in the sun. 

Additional Fees 

Where is Thomas Beach?

Thomas Beach is located at Jl. Labuan Sait, Pecatu, Uluwatu, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, or you can click on the location button below.

Melasti Beach

As one of the most well-developed beaches in Uluwatu, Melasti Beach offers unparalleled coastal experience, complete with various points of interests, clean facilities, and unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean.

With plenty of beach clubs and local establishments along the coast, you can definitely bring your family and your little ones to swim in the calm waters, safe from undercurrents and rocky reefs.

Best time to visit Melasti Beach

Dry season: Especially in Melasti Beach, the best time to visit is definitely during the dry season (April - October). Guaranteed sunny days and clear skies, perfect for swimming, suntanning, and more.

Morning: Mornings are perfect for finding your spot with fewer visitors. 

Insider tips

While you can’t directly see the sun set on the horizon, you can still see the sky turn a shade of brilliant orange. There’s now also a large outdoor amphitheatre built for a special sunset kecak performance. Get your tickets online here!

Surfing conditions

Melasti Beach is not known for its surf qualities. You are better off surfing on the beach next door, Green Bowl Beach.

Where to eat

You can find a variety of beachside restaurants and hotel eateries along the shores! Plus, you can expect hip beach clubs such as White Rock Beach Club and Uma Beach house should you wish to add a touch of sophistication to your beachside day.

Additional Fees 

Considering the popularity of Melasti Beach, many visitors often visit for various activities aside from surfing and swimming, including photoshoots, group activities and more. There are several additional fees regarding these extra activities, and you can even rent properties should you wish to take unforgettable pictures.

For a complete breakdown of the local fees, check out this website.

Where is Melasti Beach?

Melasti Beach is located at Jl. Melasti, Ungasan, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, or you can click on the location button below.

Pandawa Beach

An all time favorite of our guests, Pandawa Beach continues to become a favorite among paradise seekers. It’s become one of our most popular destinations too!

With a majestic cliff entrance and several notable statues carved into the white stones, Pandawa Beach offers golden sands and spectacular views.

Best time to visit

Dry season: Dry season is the best time to plan a visit to Pandawa Beach! Aside from surfing and swimming, Pandawa is also one of the best places for a more thrilling adventure like paragliding! And during the dry season, you’ll have better visibility and calmer winds.

Insider tips

Always bring cash with you when you visit the beaches in Uluwatu in case you wish to purchase some water or snacks from the local vendors! There might be local merchants that will try to sell you bracelets or priced up massages, so be on the lookout for those, too.

Surfing conditions

Pandawa has one of the strongest waves in Uluwatu with its powerful lefts and challenging rights. It is recommended to surfers with intermediate to expert skills!

Where to eat

You can find fairly cheap eateries along Pandawa Beach, from local warungs, street vendors, to beachside cafes. 

Additional Fees 

FAQ

Which beach in Uluwatu is best for families with kids?

Most of our guests agree that Dreamland Beach is the best beach in Uluwatu, especially if you’re travelling with families. Dreamland Beach is nestled along resort neighborhoods, offering easy access for our guests to head down from their hotels, or take a hotel shuttle, to walk along the sandy shores.

Which is the nicest beach in Uluwatu?

While it is a subjective question, we believe that among the many beaches in Uluwatu, we have good reason to consider that Thomas Beach is one of the nicest beaches in Uluwatu. Our guests report the sandy shores and clear waters are what drew them in, and we agree!

Thomas Beach is perfect for solo travellers, couples, and even families to enjoy an exciting seaside adventure together.

Best beach for swimming in Uluwatu?

TLDR, we believe Padang Padang beach is the best beach for swimming. With calm, crystal-clear waters and sandy bottoms, there’s a reason why Padang Padang is always crowded! We have an extensive list of more beaches in Uluwatu for swimming here if you’re looking to avoid the crowd! 

Is Padang Padang or Bingin Beach better?

It all depends on your reason for visiting. If you’re looking for more consistent waves for surfing, Bingin Beach is your go to. Their world-famous breaks is what makes it popular among surfers around the world thanks to its rocky sea floor. 

Padang Padang offers challenging waves for expert surfers, but the perfect shore for swimming during the low tide. Explore rock caves or get your toes in the warm sand, Padang Padang offers a more laidback ambiance if you’re not looking to ride the waves.

Where is the best beach to see the sunrise in Uluwatu?

Due to its location in the south western tip of the Bukit Peninsula, it can be challenging to directly see the sun rise from Uluwatu. Most people opt for Sanur to see the sun directly rise above the horizon. 

However, beaches like Nyang Nyang and Pandawa can offer you a glimpse of the sunrise as they are situated right in the middle.

How crowded do the beaches in Uluwatu get during peak season?

It can get very popular during the peak season, especially at surfing spots and sunset viewpoints since most tourists are eager to experience the beauty of Uluwatu for themselves. However, we suggest our guests to 

How far is Uluwatu from the airport?

The distance from Uluwatu to the airport is about 21 km. Thanks to the creation of the toll road, you can easily bypass congested roads and reduce travel time. On average, the journey can take around 40 minutes depending on the traffic and your mode of transport. We recommend our guests to opt for a taxi or private drivers if you’re in a hurry as they can take you through hidden shortcuts to save time.

Final Thoughts

Uluwatu continues to become a favorite destination among our guests and crew. And with so many lists of beaches that each offer its own unique experience, beach-hopping is always a good idea! Catch unique sunsets, savor local delicacies, or discover new brunch spots with a view—Uluwatu has it all for you.

One of the best ways to experience everything Uluwatu has to offer without constantly moving from place to place is by reserving a sail aboard The Shivanna! With our flexible itineraries, our Phinisi-style boat takes you effortlessly to your desired destinations, offering unobstructed views of Bali’s stunning coastal charm in all its beauty.

With a team of experts on deck and experienced crews to run the ship’s operation seamlessly, we ensure that every adventure is carried with precision, safety, and unmatched luxury. Ready to set sail?