Best beaches in Bali offer everything from soft white sand to hidden cliffside shores, all on one stunning island. Here, you can surf waves for every skill level, snorkel, dive, or simply swim in calm, clear waters. Bali’s west coast is also famous for its golden sunsets, often paired with vibrant beach clubs and lively nightlife.
This guide highlights Bali’s most beautiful beaches and the top activities you can enjoy. Here are the best beaches in Bali, perfect for every type of traveler.
Best Beaches in Bali for Swimming and Calm Waters
Nusa Dua Beach
A clean and beautifully maintained stretch of coastline inside the ITDC resort complex, this spot is perfect for anyone seeking calm, gentle water thanks to its natural and artificial breakwaters. It’s ideal for safe swimming, relaxing walks, and enjoying premium resort facilities. Location: ITDC area, South Bali.
Geger Beach
A peaceful, lesser-known beach in Bali with crystal-clear water and soft sand. Its calm waves make it great for swimming, sunbathing, and paddling a canoe or kayak. Location: South of Nusa Dua, near The Mulia and St. Regis.
Sanur Beach
A charming sunrise destination with shallow, protected waters created by an offshore reef. It’s a favorite in many Bali beach guide lists thanks to its long coastal path for cycling, morning swims, and laid-back seaside strolls. Location: Southeast Bali, Denpasar.
Pandawa Beach
Famous for its dramatic entrance road carved through towering limestone cliffs, this spot features clear turquoise water and bright white sand. It’s one of the top beaches for relaxed swimming or renting a kayak. Location: Kutuh Village, South Bali.
Bias Tugel Beach
Often called Secret Beach, this hidden gem requires a short walk from Padang Bai but rewards visitors with quiet shores and clear water. It’s a serene option among Bali beaches, great for swimming, snorkeling, and peaceful downtime. Location: Near Padang Bai Harbor, East Bali.
Best Beaches in Bali for Surfing
Kuta Beach
Kuta is one of the most iconic spots for surfing Bali, thanks to its soft yellowish-white sand and sandy seabed with no coral. The waves are gentle and perfect for beginners, with plenty of surf schools and board rentals along the shore. Location: South Bali (Kuta area).
Echo Beach Canggu
A favorite in Canggu’s stylish surf scene, Echo Beach Canggu offers darker sand, mellow vibes, and consistent waves for intermediate to advanced surfers. It’s also a great place to enjoy sunset dining along the coastline. Location: Canggu, Badung.
Padang Padang Beach
One of the world’s best surfing beaches Bali, Padang Padang features a small white-sand cove hidden behind a cave entrance. It’s home to the famous Rip Curl Cup and offers both friendly inside waves and powerful barrel waves for pros. A beautiful spot to sunbathe too. Location: Pecatu, Bukit Peninsula.
Suluban Beach
One of the most dramatic beaches in Uluwatu Bali, Suluban Beach is tucked between cliffs and accessed through a cave-like passage.
The surf here is advanced-level and leads directly to the legendary Uluwatu break. It’s also close to many cliffside cafés, perfect if you’re exploring where to stay in Uluwatu. Location: Pecatu, near Uluwatu Temple.
Berawa Beach
Located between Seminyak and Canggu, this beach has dark sand, a long shoreline, and a lively modern scene near cafés and beach clubs. The waves suit beginner to intermediate surfers, making it a great step up from Kuta.
It’s also a popular place to watch sunsets before heading to one of the best rooftop bars in the area. Location: Canggu, Badung.
Bingin Beach
Bingin is a charming hideaway with a peaceful village vibe, clifftop villas, and a long staircase leading down to the sand. It’s perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers thanks to its fast left-hand reef break. During low tide, the beach becomes a cozy place to sunbathe. Location: Pecatu, Bukit Peninsula.
Green Bowl Beach
Known for its steep stairway and untouched beauty, Green Bowl Beach is one of Bali’s most secluded coastal gems. Its crystal-clear water makes it feel like Bali beach has the clearest water, and the waves here suit experienced surfers.
At high tide, it’s also one of the best beach in bali for swimming, perfect for those seeking a quiet escape in the most beautiful area of Bali. Location: Ungasan, near Gunung Payung Temple.
Batu Bolong Beach
Right in the lively heart of Canggu, Batu Bolong offers soft waves ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. With cafés and beach clubs lining the coast, it’s a great place to catch a relaxed sunset after surfing or strolling along the shore. Location: Canggu, Badung.
Balangan Beach
Balangan stands out with its long stretch of white sand, calm atmosphere, and dramatic cliffs on each side. It’s an excellent surf spot for intermediate surfers and a favorite setting for photos or even a romantic dinner by the beach. Location: Ungasan, Bukit Peninsula.
Thomas Beach
Tucked between Uluwatu and Padang Padang, Thomas Beach remains quiet and beautifully natural. The wooden staircase down the cliff gives access to clear blue water perfect for swimming and light snorkeling.
On strong-swell days, intermediate surfers can enjoy fun waves, while on calm days, it becomes one of the prettiest, most peaceful spots in the most beautiful area of Bali. Location: Pecatu, Bukit Peninsula.
Best Beaches in Bali for Sunsets and Atmosphere
Jimbaran Beach
Located along Jimbaran Bay, this beach is famous for calm waters and unforgettable sunset views. As evening approaches, the shoreline fills with tables for fresh seafood dinners right on the sand, one of Bali’s most iconic dining experiences.
During the day, the gentle waves make it great for swimming or relaxing by the water. Location: South Bali, near the airport.
Seminyak Beach
Seminyak Beach offers a more stylish and upscale vibe compared to Kuta, with a long coastline, soft sand, and trendy beach clubs lining the shore.
It’s perfect for sunset lounging on colorful beanbags, casual surfing, or exploring nearby shops and nightlife. The atmosphere is chic, social, and always lively. Location: North of Kuta, South Bali.
Padang Padang Beach, Uluwatu
Known for its dramatic cliffs and world-class waves, Padang Padang also delivers beautiful sunset views from the cafes perched above the ocean.
You can watch pro surfers ride the breaks, swim in the hidden sandy cove, or enjoy a relaxed evening at nearby cafés, often the same spots people visit before exploring breakfast spots in Uluwatu. Location: Pecatu, Bukit Peninsula.
Best Beaches in Bali for Unique Scenery and Seclusion
Melasti Beach
Melasti Beach stands out for its dramatic cliff-cut road, a popular photo spot thanks to the towering white limestone walls. The water is bright turquoise, and certain areas are perfect for relaxing dips. It’s great for capturing scenic photos, enjoying calm waters, and watching the sunset from the cliffside. Location: Ungasan, South Bali.
Virgin Beach (White Sand)
Often called White Sand Beach, this hidden gem in East Bali is ideal for a peaceful escape. Its clear water makes it one of the best areas for snorkeling Bali, and visitors love swimming, lounging on rented sunbeds, and enjoying a quiet day by the sea. Location: Karangasem, near Candidasa.
Nyang Nyang Beach
This long, secluded coastline offers total privacy, reached by a 20–30 minute walk down a hillside trail. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy surfing, quiet beach days, or camping by the ocean. Nyang Nyang is often considered one of the most calm beaches Bali has for those seeking solitude. Location: Pecatu, South Bali.
Kelingking Beach
Famous for its T-Rex–shaped cliff, Kelingking is a must-see viewpoint on Nusa Penida. The hike down is extremely challenging, but the scenery from above is unforgettable. It’s not the best beach in Bali for swimming, but it’s one of the most iconic sights on the island. Location: West Nusa Penida.
Diamond Beach
Located on the eastern side of Nusa Penida, Diamond Beach is known for its dramatic rock formations and stunning turquoise water. Visitors can walk down the carved cliff stairs for photos or a quick dip, though waves can be strong. It’s one of Bali’s most photogenic spots with a pristine, untouched feel. Location: East Nusa Penida.
Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida is the largest and most rugged of the Nusa islands, famous for its dramatic cliffs and iconic spots like the T-Rex viewpoint at Kelingking. The beaches here have deep blue water, strong waves, and powerful currents, giving the island a wild, untouched feel.
It’s quieter and less developed, perfect for adventure lovers. Popular activities include diving at Crystal Bay to spot Mola-Mola, exploring viewpoints like Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong, and swimming at safe spots such as Atuh Beach. You can reach Nusa Penida by fast boat from Sanur or Kusamba.
Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is smaller and more relaxed, offering a chilled island vibe with soft white sand and clear, calm water. Getting around is easier than on Penida, making it ideal for a peaceful beach holiday.
Snorkeling and diving in the Mangrove area or Blue Lagoon are top highlights, along with surfing at spots like Lacerations and Shipwrecks. Dream Beach, with its scenic cliffs, is perfect for sunbathing and slow island days. The island sits between Bali and Penida, accessible by fast boat from Sanur.
Best Beaches in Bali for Snorkeling and Diving
Amed Beach
Amed is a peaceful stretch of coastline in East Bali made up of several bays, known for its black sand beach Bali scenery and calm waters. The visibility here is excellent, making it perfect for snorkeling right from the shore, diving around small shipwrecks, or joining local fishermen on the water. The atmosphere is quiet and laid-back, far from the crowds in South Bali. Location: Karangasem, East Bali.
Blue Lagoon Beach
Blue Lagoon is a small, hidden beach surrounded by lush green hills, with bright blue, crystal-clear water. You can easily spot colorful fish and coral close to the shore, making it one of the best places for beginner snorkeling or a quick underwater adventure before heading to the islands. Location: Padang Bai, Karangasem.
Pemuteran
Pemuteran in North Bali is known for its calm bay waters and the famous Biorock Project, the world’s largest artificial coral restoration site. It’s one of the best family-friendly beaches Bali offers, thanks to its peaceful environment and easy snorkeling spots. Visitors can enjoy diving, explore coral rehabilitation areas, or use it as a gateway to Menjangan Island—one of Bali’s top diving destinations. Location: Buleleng, North Bali.
Tulamben
Tulamben is world-renowned for its diving, especially the USAT Liberty Shipwreck that sits just off its rocky black sand shoreline. Divers of all levels can access the wreck easily, either from the beach or by boat, and snorkelers can also enjoy the shallow parts of the reef and shipwreck. It’s a unique and unforgettable underwater experience. Location: Karangasem, East Bali.
Menjangan Island
Menjangan Island is part of West Bali National Park and is famous for its calm waters and incredible visibility, sometimes up to 40 meters. It’s one of the best places in Bali for wall diving, offering stunning underwater cliffs and vibrant coral reefs.
The marine life here is rich, from colorful fish to turtles, making it perfect for both snorkelers and beginner divers. The island is also known for its wild deer, which often wander near the shoreline and add a unique charm to the experience.
Tips for Visiting Bali Beaches
- Know the Waves and Stay Safe
Before getting in the water, check if the beach has calm waves, like Nusa Dua or Sanur, or strong currents, such as in Uluwatu or Canggu. If the waves look big or signs say “no swimming,” it’s best to enjoy the beach from the shore or go surfing instead. This helps keep you safe, especially because many beaches in South Bali can have powerful currents. - Always Use Sunscreen (Reef-Safe for Snorkeling!)
The sun in Bali is intense, so keep reapplying high-SPF sunscreen, even when it’s cloudy. If you plan to snorkel or dive, choose reef-safe sunscreen to help protect Bali’s coral reefs. This keeps you comfortable and supports marine conservation. - Wear the Right Footwear
Some beaches, like Amed, Tulamben, or cliff-access beaches in Uluwatu, have hot black sand, sharp rocks, or slippery paths. Bring water shoes or sturdy footwear instead of regular flip-flops. This helps protect your feet when walking on rough or hot surfaces.
Conclusion
The best beaches in Bali offer something unforgettable for every kind of traveler, calm turquoise lagoons, world-class surf breaks, dramatic cliff views, and crystal-clear snorkeling spots. Whether you’re chasing sunrise in Sanur, golden sunsets in Seminyak, or hidden coves in Uluwatu, each coastline brings its own magic and makes exploring Bali’s shores an experience you’ll always remember.
To elevate your beach day even more, make sure to visit Tropical Temptation Beach Club, one of Bali’s most stylish oceanfront destinations. Relax by the pool, enjoy signature cocktails, and soak in the island vibes. You can also book your daybed or dining experience directly through the official website for the best deals and guaranteed spots.
