The 7 best beaches in Bali for every kind of traveler

The Indonesian island of Bali has some of the most stunning shorelines in the world, including everything from the calm, family-friendly waters of Sanur Beach to the thrilling surf breaks of Kuta Beach. Satisfy your appetite with fresh seafood at Jimbaran Beach, or marvel at the stunning cliffs of Kelingking Beach.

Golfers will love the fantastic green right off of Nusa Dua Beach, while luxury seekers can relax with a tropical drink on the soft sands of Seminyak Beach. The best beaches in Bali have plenty of family-friendly activities, hidden gems for adventurers, and solo traveler experiences.

1. Sanur Beach, South Bali

Best beach to swim, shop, and relax

One of the best beaches in Bali for swimming and strolling on a promenade, Sanur Beach is a relaxed, scenic retreat with its long stretch of clean shoreline and calm, blue seas. This leisurely atmosphere provides a peaceful ambiance perfect for strolls by traditional warungs, small Indonesian street food stalls, and quaint souvenir shops sitting right on the beach. Sanur Beach is ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of local shops and peaceful waters, which are well-suited for floating and snorkeling.

Insider tip

The Sanur Beach coral reef, located just 400 meters off the shore, is one of the best beaches in Bali for snorkeling. The waters are calm and clear, and the reef is located close to shore, making it a serene spot for little ones learning to snorkel. However, avoid the waters in the early mornings as surfers tend to catch long waves over the reef during this time.

Address

Sanur, Bali

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

2. Jimbaran Beach, Southwestern Bali

Best beach for foodies

Golden sands and blue waters are just the beginning of what makes Jimbaran Beach a must-visit destination. Known for its remarkable seafood dining options, Jimbaran Beach is the go-to spot for those who want to enjoy fresh, grilled seafood while watching a breathtaking sunset. The beachfront is lined with seafood restaurants that have tables right on the sand. Here, you can find some of the best food in Bali, like kerang bakar jimbaran, grilled clams in a smoky BBQ sauce, and plecing kangkung, a spicy water spinach dish.

Know before you go

Arrive just before sunset to secure a prime dining spot at one of the beachfront seafood restaurants. Tables fill up quickly, especially during the peak seasons from July to August and around December.

Address

Jimbaran, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

3. Kuta Beach, Badung Regency

Best beach for surfers

For adventure sports enthusiasts, Kuta Beach is a must-visit Bali destination known for its consistent waves, lively beach scene, and vibrant atmosphere. You'll find experienced surfers looking to ride some of the best breaks in Bali, as well as newbies taking a beginner surfing lesson. The wide, golden sands provide plenty of space for beachgoers to relax and unwind after a day of riding the waves. After surfing, visitors can stretch out on the golden sand and sunbathe the day away.

Insider tip

Advanced surfers should venture a bit further from the shore for a better experience. It’s easy to catch a boat from Kuta Beach to Kuta Reef, which is known for its left-hand reef break and fantastic waves.

Address

Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

4. Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida

Best beach for stunning views

Known for its unique shape resembling a dinosaur’s head, Kelingking Beach has earned the nickname "T-Rex Beach." This iconic location is one of the most photographed beaches near Bali, undoubtedly thanks to its special cliffs and turquoise waters. To reach the beach, visitors must brave steep stairs, but they'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean. Once at the beach, you're greeted with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.

Insider tip

The shore of Kelingking is beautiful, but off the coast, you’ll cross paths with the global manta ray migration path. This makes Kelingking one of the best beaches in Bali for snorkeling.

Address

Bunga Mekar, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

5. Nusa Dua Beach, South Bali

Best beach for swimming, golf, and luxury

Nusa Dua Beach is the epitome of luxury, with its pristine white sand and upscale resorts. It’s one of the best sandy beaches in Bali for relaxing in style with world-class amenities, making it ideal for families and travelers seeking an elevated beach experience. This beach is conveniently located next to some of Bali's finest golf courses, offering the perfect blend of oceanfront relaxation and a round of golf on the green.

Know before you go

Nusa Dua Beach is part of a gated resort area, so it’s well-maintained and peaceful. While some resorts have private sections, there are public areas accessible to all. Just look for the signs and avoid lounging in a restricted area.

Address

Bali

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

6. Seminyak Beach, West Bali

Best beach for upscale nightlife

Bali’s go-to destination for luxury beach clubs, stylish bars, and an upscale nightlife scene is none other than Seminyak Beach. Sip cocktails at one of the many beach clubs lining the beach while admiring the pristine sands and spectacular sunsets. The gentle waves make it an ideal location for beginner surfers, while the vibrant atmosphere makes it one of the best beaches in Bali for couples or solo travelers looking to experience Bali’s more glamorous side. Couples looking for romantic things to do in Bali may also want to try horseback riding on the beach.

Insider tip

If you're planning to surf, beginner lessons are available, but it’s best to check the tides beforehand. Typically, you'll catch the best waves in the early morning.

Address

Bali

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

7. Suluban Beach, West Bali

Best beach for unique scener

Suluban Beach sits between two towering limestone cliffs, creating a stunning, secluded spot known for its sea caves. The beach’s striking natural appearance and soft sand create a secret paradise for couples looking for a romantic escape. During low tide, small sandy coves appear, offering a private setting to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. The nearby cliff-top bars also provide incredible sunset views, creating a magical evening atmosphere for romance.

Know before you go

Suluban Beach is a great spot to get your steps in, requiring visitors to navigate a few different stairs to reach the beach. The stairs are steep in places. If you have mobility concerns, then it’s also possible to access the beach via boat.

Address

Bali

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

FAQs: Best beaches in Bali

Generated with the help of AI

What is the best beach in Bali?

Bali boasts numerous stunning beaches, each offering unique experiences. Padang Padang Beach in Uluwatu is famous among surfers for its consistent waves. Kuta Beach is popular for its vibrant nightlife. For a more secluded experience, Green Bowl Beach and Pemuteran Beach are ideal. Tanjung Benoa Beach is perfect for water sports, and Echo Beach in Canggu attracts a trendy crowd. Each beach has its own charm, making it difficult to choose just one as the best.

Which part of Bali has the best beaches?

For stunning beaches, head to the Uluwatu area in the southern tip of Bali. This region is renowned for its picturesque coastlines and excellent surf spots, making it a favorite among beach lovers and surfers alike.

Which beach in Bali has the clearest water?

Crystal Bay on Nusa Penida is renowned for its crystal-clear waters. A 40–50 minute fast boat ride from Bali will take you to this picturesque beach, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

What is the best beach to stay at in Bali?

Choosing the best beach in Bali depends on your preferences. Seminyak Beach is ideal for luxury and nightlife enthusiasts, while Nusa Dua Beach is perfect for families. Echo Beach offers great people-watching, and Jimbaran Bay is famous for its seafood and sunsets. For surfing and sunbathing, head to Balangan Beach. Kuta is a popular choice for a comfortable stay with easy access to amenities.

What is the best beach in Bali for kids?

For a family-friendly day, head to Sanur or Nusa Dua, ideal for swimming and sand play. Young snorkelers will enjoy Amed and Lovina, where they can explore marine life from the shore. For water sports adventures, older kids will love Benoa Beach. Berawa Beach is also a great option for families with young children.

Where can you find the best snorkeling spots in Bali?

For beginner snorkelers, Blue Lagoon in Padangbai is ideal. The waters are not only clear but also calm, making it perfect for a relaxed snorkeling experience. The coral reef is close to the surface, allowing snorkelers to enjoy the vibrant marine life without diving deep.