One day in Uluwatu is all it takes to fall in love with Bali’s clifftop paradise. Towering cliffs, secret beaches, and world-class waves make this destination a perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty.
With its breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering food, Uluwatu brings everything together in one unforgettable trip. From temples to beaches, the list of things to do in Uluwatu is endless, here’s your complete guide to exploring it all in just a day.
Why Choose Uluwatu for a Day Trip
Spectacular Cliffs and Hidden Beaches
An Uluwatu day trip is all about jaw-dropping scenery. Towering cliffs above the Indian Ocean create a dramatic backdrop, perfect for photos. Tucked beneath them, hidden gems like Padang Padang and Bingin Beach offer soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of untouched paradise.
Culture and Spiritual Charm
At the heart of Uluwatu Bali lies Pura Luhur Uluwatu, a sacred temple perched dramatically on a cliff edge. Here, sunset brings the iconic Kecak and Fire Dance to life, with chants and movement set against the glowing horizon—a cultural and spiritual moment you’ll never forget.
Endless Activities to Enjoy
When it comes to things to do in Uluwatu, there’s something for everyone. Surfers can chase world-class waves, while others relax in cliffside cafés, explore mystical coastal caves, or join a yoga session overlooking the sea. Every moment feels like an adventure waiting to unfold.
A Flavorful Ending
Wrap up your day with a trip to Jimbaran, just minutes from Uluwatu. Feast on fresh seafood right on the sand, with candlelight and ocean waves setting the scene. It’s the perfect, romantic finale to a day filled with Uluwatu’s natural beauty and charm.
Planning Your One Day in Uluwatu
Morning in Uluwatu: Beaches and Relaxing Start
- Nyang Nyang Beach
Among the most breathtaking Uluwatu beach spots, Nyang Nyang is often called a “hidden paradise.” Remote and quiet, it offers long stretches of soft white sand framed by towering limestone cliffs.
Facing southeast, it’s one of the best places to catch the sunrise on your day trip to Uluwatu, with golden light reflecting beautifully over the ocean. - Green Bowl Beach
Tucked away behind a steep staircase, Green Bowl Beach feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. This Uluwatu itinerary gem faces east, making it another great spot for sunrise, though cliffs partly frame the view. Its coral caves and dramatic rock formations create a magical backdrop for early-morning explorers. - Gunung Payung Beach
For those who don’t mind a bit of effort, Gunung Payung Beach rewards you with pristine sands and calm waters. Located east of Uluwatu, it’s a peaceful place to enjoy the sunrise without crowds. Be sure to check the weather guide, as clear skies make this sunrise spot even more unforgettable.
Midday Adventures: Culture and Views
- Discover the Magic of Uluwatu Temple
One of Bali’s most iconic landmarks, Uluwatu Temple sits high on a 70-meter cliff, offering jaw-dropping views of the Indian Ocean. The temple itself is full of charm and sacred energy, perfect for a daytime visit.
Walk along the cliffside paths, snap photos of the dramatic coastline, and watch the waves crash far below. Just keep an eye on your belongings, the local monkeys are notorious for snatching sunglasses and snacks!
After a full day of exploring, you’ll want to wind down, and that’s where spa experiences in Bali shine. Uluwatu has some amazing spa options - Chill at a Clifftop Café
If you’re wondering what to do in Uluwatu after temple-hopping, head to one of the many clifftop cafes or restaurants scattered along the coast. These laid-back spots are perfect for enjoying a cold drink, fresh seafood, or a sunset cocktail while overlooking the ocean.
It’s the ideal place to relax, recharge, and take in the island vibes. If you’re planning your trip and wondering where to stay in Uluwatu, look for cliffside resorts, private villas, or boutique stays that offer stunning views - Explore Hidden Beaches with a Twist
Uluwatu is home to some of the most unique beaches in Bali. Suluban Beach, for example, is tucked beneath limestone cliffs and accessed through narrow caves and stairs.
The sunlight filtering through the rock formations creates an otherworldly glow. It’s not your average beach trip; this one’s an adventure. - Add Culture with a View at GWK Park
Just a short drive from Uluwatu, the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park is home to a 121-meter statue of the Hindu god Vishnu riding the mythical Garuda.
The park hosts regular traditional performances and offers sweeping views of southern Bali. It’s a great way to mix art, culture, and sightseeing into one unforgettable stop.
Afternoon: Explore More Beaches and Chill at Beach Clubs
If you’re planning a day trip to Uluwatu from Seminyak, heading over on a day trip to Uluwatu from Canggu, or even making it part of your Nusa Dua to Uluwatu day trip, these beaches and beach clubs are must-stops. Each offers its own vibe—whether you’re chasing waves, sunsets, or the perfect place to eat.
- Balangan Beach
Balangan is famous for its epic cliff-top views and Instagram-worthy photo spots. Surfers love the waves here, while everyone else enjoys the wide sandy stretch for sunbathing, long strolls, or simply soaking up the peaceful ocean views. - Dreamland Beach
With soft white sand and easy access, Dreamland is a laid-back favorite for spending the afternoon. Grab a beach chair, sip on fresh coconut water, and stay for the stunning sunset that paints the sky in warm colors. - Tropical Temptation Beach Club (Melasti Beach)
Unlike most clifftop venues in Uluwatu, Tropical Temptation (TT) Beach Club sits directly on the sand at Melasti Beach. Expect crystal-clear water, stylish daybeds, and a prime sunset view—all while being just steps from the shoreline.
It’s a perfect blend of relaxed beach time and chic party vibes. TT Beach Club also has a perfect place to eat, since they have Hichori, a teppanyaki restaurant with a beach view. - Single Fin
Perched right above Uluwatu’s legendary surf break, Single Fin is one of the island’s most iconic sunset bars. It’s casual, lively, and always buzzing with travelers. Come in the late afternoon for chilled music, good drinks, and unbeatable ocean views. - Ulu Cliffhouse
For a more upscale scene, Ulu Cliffhouse offers a dramatic infinity pool stretching over the cliff. Kick back on a daybed with a cocktail in hand, enjoy great tunes, and watch the sun sink into the horizon in pure style. - El Kabron
If you’re after luxury and atmosphere, El Kabron delivers. Sitting high above Pecatu’s cliffs, it serves authentic Spanish cuisine alongside uninterrupted 180-degree ocean views. As the sun sets, the vibe shifts into a sunset party with DJs and live musicians, creating one of the most memorable nightfall experiences in Bali.
Evening: Dinner and Nightlife
After an adventure-packed afternoon, the evening in Uluwatu is where things slow down—or heat up, depending on your mood. Whether you’re wrapping up one day in Uluwatu or staying longer, this is how to end it right, from sunset to starlight.
- Seafood Dinner on Jimbaran Beach
Just a short drive from Uluwatu, dinner on Jimbaran Beach is a must. Picture this: you’re barefoot in the sand, candlelight flickers on your table, and the sound of waves sets the mood.
Choose your own fresh seafood, snapper, prawns, squid, or lobster, and watch it get grilled with rich Balinese spices. Simple, flavorful, unforgettable.
- Fine Dining with a View
Looking to elevate the evening? Head to a refined spot like Tsune Uluwatu, where modern Japanese dishes meet a breathtaking hilltop view.
The semi-outdoor setting creates a cozy yet upscale vibe, perfect for date night or celebrating something special. It’s where top-tier food meets top-shelf scenery.
- Nightlife at Luxury Beach Clubs
Uluwatu isn’t just about laid-back vibes; when night falls, it knows how to party. Head to high-end beach clubs like Ulu Cliffhouse or Savaya, where world-class DJs, stunning lighting, and crafted cocktails turn the cliffs into a full-blown nightlife scene.
Think rooftop energy with Bali’s signature edge. If you’re in the mood for something sleek and sophisticated, these clubs deliver with premium sound systems, stylish design, and a crowd that knows how to have a good time, without losing the chill of island life.
Tips for a Smooth One Day in Uluwatu
- Choose the Right Ride
Uluwatu covers a lot of ground, so walking isn’t really an option. The easiest way to explore? Hire a private driver for the day, no stress, no parking worries, just sit back and enjoy the ride.
If you’re confident on two wheels, renting a scooter gives you more freedom to zip between beaches and viewpoints on your own schedule.
- Time It Right
Start your day early, aim for 9 or 10 AM, so you can hit the beaches like Padang Padang or Balangan before the crowds (and heat) roll in. Plan your visit to Uluwatu Temple around 4–5 PM for the golden afternoon light, and don’t miss the Kecak Dance at sunset, a truly iconic experience that usually starts around 6 PM.
- Dress Smart & Pack Light
To enter Uluwatu Temple, you’ll need a sarong and sash, no worries if you don’t have one, they’re usually available at the gate. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, the sun here is no joke.
Comfortable shoes are a must for walking cliffs, steps, and temple paths, especially if you plan to visit a beach club afterward.
- Stay Safe & Be Respectful
Those monkeys at Uluwatu Temple? Cute but crafty. Keep your things secure, hide your shiny stuff, and don’t wave your phone or snacks around.
Bring a bit of cash for small purchases or parking, even if most places take cards. And if you’re heading to a popular beach club like El Kabron or Single Fin for sunset, book ahead, good seats fill up fast, especially on weekends.
Where to Stay if Extending Your Visit
- The Arden Uluwatu
Tucked away in peaceful Uluwatu and managed by Ini Vie Hospitality, The Arden Villa blends modern comfort with timeless elegance. Surrounded by lush greenery and kissed by ocean breezes, it’s designed as a serene escape just minutes from Uluwatu’s famous beaches.
Choose between a stylish One-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool or a Suite Room, each crafted to soothe the soul and offer a touch of luxury. - Seascape Uluwatu Resort & Spa
Romantic, intimate, and unforgettable, Seascape Uluwatu Resort & Spa is a luxury retreat perfect for honeymooners, couples, or families. Overlooking the ocean on Jl. Labuan Sait, Pecatu, the resort combines exotic charm with modern indulgence.
Guests can enjoy suites with private jacuzzis, adults-only cabana rooms with infinity pools, and sweeping ocean views. The resort also features Tsune Uluwatu Restaurant, the relaxing Svaha Spa Bingin, and a well-equipped gym. It’s the ideal sanctuary for both lovebirds and those seeking quiet luxury.
- The Jimbaran Villa
Designed with romance in mind, The Jimbaran Villa offers couples an intimate escape with a touch of luxury. Managed by Ini Vie Hospitality, it sits in the lively Jimbaran area but feels worlds away, thanks to its tranquil atmosphere and ocean views.
The highlight? A One-Bedroom Private Pool Villa with Rooftop, where you can swim, unwind, or watch the sunset from your private rooftop terrace. Located at Dream Resort, Jl. Bukit Permai No. 88 A, it’s the perfect hideaway for a romantic getaway.
Conclusion
Spending one day in Uluwatu is all it takes to experience Bali’s perfect mix of cliffs, culture, beaches, and unforgettable sunsets. From sunrise on hidden shores to dinner under the stars, Uluwatu delivers magic at every moment.
For the ultimate ending, treat yourself to an oceanfront vibe at Tropical Temptation Beach Club, a spot where the energy flows from day to night. Ready to lock in your seat? Make a reservation directly through their website and let your Uluwatu escape end in style.
