Bali west coast what beaches. The best beaches in Bali for swimming – we compare the “resort in the picture” and the many-sided Indonesian reality. Where to buy insurance in Bali - which one is better?
Find out which resorts in Bali are the best to relax at! We talk about prices, beaches, infrastructure, waves, attractions and choose optimal places For beach holiday.
The rock where the Uluwatu temple is located (Photo © wikimedia.ru / CEphoto, Uwe Aranas) Jimbaran
A small village where the local population earns money mainly from fishing. One part of Jimbaran beach is occupied by fishing gear and boats. The other is coastal restaurants where you can try fresh seafood (they are considered the best in Bali), and expensive 5* hotels. At the resort good places for diving and snorkeling, but only wealthy people can afford a holiday here - prices are high. You can swim calmly in the southern part of the beach, protected by a cape.
Beach in Jimbaran (Photo © Trans World Productions / flickr.com) Nusa Dua
Once there were mangroves here, now this is one of the best places to relax on the island of Bali. Nusa Dua has all the conditions for a relaxing holiday: luxury hotels, golf courses, tennis courts and cycling paths.
Nusa Dua is the only Bali resort where the beaches are closed to locals, but its isolation does not allow you to get acquainted with the unique culture of the island. There are no attractions in Nusa Dua - in fact, it is a street along which hotels, cafes and excursion stands are located. If you arrived on a package deal and only want a beach holiday, then the resort will suit you. If you want to get acquainted with the culture of the island, it is better to choose another Bali resort, for example, Ubud.
Prices for accommodation and food in Nusa Dua are significantly higher than in other places on the island.
Beach in Nusa Dua (Photo © Jumilla / flickr.com) Tanjung Benoa
This developing tranquil resort, built on the site of a fishing village, is located next to Nusa Dua. It differs from its fashionable neighbor by the presence of 3-4* hotels and loyal prices for vacations. Here beautiful beaches and international population. Different world religions coexist in Tanjung, as evidenced by the temples and mosques located next to each other.
During the day, vacationers ride on water skiing, go surfing, snorkeling and parachuting, and have dinner in one of the restaurants in the evening. Loyal pricing policy attracts newlyweds and married couples craving privacy.
Beach in Tanjung Benoa (Photo © dannymfoster / flickr.com) Sanur
This is the oldest resort on the island, and its developed infrastructure makes it one of the best places to relax in Bali: there are hotels of different price categories, cafes and shops, and many well-kept tropical gardens. Holidays are cheaper than in the decent resort of Nusa Dua, but more expensive than in noisy Kuta. Most often families with children relax here, since the coast is flat and active people - calm water is conducive to snorkeling and diving. And the downside is that when the tide goes out, the water goes very far.
Sanur has ancient temples, a museum for the artist Adrien de Merpres and a large entertainment center with water slides and attractions. From Sanur it is convenient to get to the volcanoes and hot springs of Bali, and not far from the resort there is an island with giant turtles.
Low tide in Sanur (Photo © wikimedia.ru / Sententiosus)
Ubud is the cultural capital of the island and the best place for those eager to get acquainted with the customs and traditions of Bali. The city is located among tropical forests in the mountainous part of Bali. There are no beaches, nightclubs or bars here, but there are many temples, souvenir shops and restaurants. Accommodation prices are affordable for any tourist.
The city has many museums, craft workshops and art galleries, where they periodically host international exhibitions. You can regularly see Balinese dance performances and music concerts.
In the shops you can buy handmade souvenirs. This city is remote from the coast, but has an excellent location for walking and cycling. The landscapes of the surrounding area are picturesque - rice terraces, green hills, rainforests and rivers. There is the famous Monkey Forest.
Where is the best place to stay in Bali? When choosing a hotel, we recommend using the roomguru accommodation price comparison service. He will select the most profitable options among many booking systems.
Ubud (Photo © eurodrifter / flickr.com) The best beaches in Bali for swimming
The special features of Bali are permanent waves. Most places have them, making swimming difficult. The exceptions are the relatively calm beaches of Nusa Dua and Sanur, but they also have their drawback - high and low tides, due to which vacationers have to adhere to a schedule. When the ocean recedes, algae and other debris remain on the sand, and the water level becomes knee-deep. When choosing a place where you will relax in Bali, pay attention to the beach and read reviews from tourists.
- In Sanur The beaches are wide and long, with shallow water off the coast. To swim, an adult needs to walk several tens of meters away, but children have a great time swimming.
- Beach Tanjung Benoa spacious and clean with fine white sand but the same tide problem as Nusa Dua.
- A magnificent sandy beach in Bali can be found in Jimbaran. It is located in a small bay, shallow near the shore, the water is quite clean and calm, which makes it safe for children to swim.
- Good beach for swimming in Bali Padang-Padang. The water here is crystal clear, there are almost no strong waves near the shore. Surfers always go further away to surf, so there is no need to worry about sudden impacts from the board.
- Quite an unusual beach Pandava- perfectly clean with white sand and calm water. On its outskirts there are several caves where you can take pictures, and there are cafes along the beach, where you can rent a kayak or lie on a sun lounger.
- Glamorous beach Dreamland- one of the few bounty beaches in Bali. It is quite popular among tourists, but the waves here are high, and not everyone can swim.
On Bali ideal conditions for surfing: year-round small and strong waves, warm sea and lack of dangerous predators in the water (Photo © unsplash.com / @wirahadiprd) The best beaches in Bali for surfing
The vast majority of Bali's surf spots are located in the south of the island within a radius of several kilometers from Kuta. During the dry season there is always a regular wave here, so safe swimming is only possible in the evening when the waves subside and most of athletes migrate to drinking establishments. There are fewer surfers on Bali beaches such as Legian and Seminyak, but strong waves are not conducive to swimming. The waves are even higher in Canggu and Uluwatu. These beaches are popular among experienced surfers.
The island of Bali in the minds of our travelers seems to be a kind of paradise where you can renounce the busy world and experience tropical happiness. This is true, but to fully enjoy your vacation, you need to carefully choose the right resort.
We will tell you about the most popular beaches in Bali, explore the northern and southern coasts of the island and try to understand where it is worth staying and where not. In addition, you will find the top 3 most beautiful beaches on the island. Let's swim!
Best swimming spots in Bali – where to look
Bali is a stunning island, but you don’t need to have any special illusions about this place. Get ready for the fact that the postcard landscapes will not match what you saw in reality. Many people are disappointed in Bali, calling it a noisy, dirty and boring island, but this is only part of the truth. It’s just that people who went on vacation chose a resort that was not theirs. To prevent this from happening to you, read our article.
Swimming schedule in Bali depends on the tidal schedule.
Most of Bali's beaches are either for surfing or swimming. Combining these activities is problematic, since surfers need high wave, and ordinary tourists - on a gentle and safe descent. You will have to understand the following things:
- Almost all beaches are municipal (free entry, no order).
- Every year the coast becomes dirtier.
- You will constantly encounter locals.
And where are the best beaches for swimming, you ask? They are. You just have to search thoroughly.
South Coast resorts
Bali is washed by the stormy waters of the Indian Ocean, so your holiday will depend on the tide schedule. There is also a significant difference between north and south, which we will now talk about.
The southern tip of Bali is replete with golden and white sand spits. The following resorts are worth paying attention to:
- Bukit Peninsula (elite beaches of Balangan, Padang Padang, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Dreamland);
- southeast (Padang Bai, Sanur);
- southwest (Canggu, Legian, Kuta).
Holiday conditions on the elite Bukit depend on the season. In the summer, locals clean everything up in preparation for the influx of tourists, but in the winter you'll encounter algae and trash.
To get guaranteed pleasure from the calm waters washing Bukit, go to Nusa Dua - there is Geger Beach, which you will learn about a little later.
North Bali
This part of the island consists entirely of volcanic beaches. There is no white sand here, but the water has a higher “level of calm.” The reason is simple - the north of the island is washed not by the ocean, but by the waters of the Bali Sea.
The nature here is beautiful, and most of the resorts are concentrated near Buleleng. The most popular here are coastal villages with adjacent beach strips. Here they are:
- Anturan;
- Tukad Mungga;
- Temukus;
- Kalibukbuk.
The listed beaches merged into a single resort, called Lovina. The infrastructure here is not overwhelming, but everything you need is present. The main advantage of Lovina is the small influx of travelers during the summer months.
The northeast is famous for snorkeling and diving. Local beaches are covered with black volcanic sand, but there are many diving centers.
West and East
You won’t see beautiful sunsets in the east, and the beaches here are tiny and uncrowded. The sand is excellent. There are many suitable diving spots (Pasir Putih Beach, Padangbai Beach).
There are fewer resorts in the west. Connoisseurs of the unknown flock here, chasing bright adventures. Cliffs and rocky beaches - this is what Western landscapes look like. For lovers have a nice swim there's nothing to do here.
Popular beaches of Bali on the map
You already know that the swimming regime will coincide with the tide schedule. We have marked the main resorts of Bali on the map. Be sure to check the tidal chart there before planning your trip.
Five best swimming spots in Bali
Summarizing the knowledge gained from the previous section of the article, we will try to identify five key places for swimming. The list will look like this:
There are more beaches for surfers than for swimmers.
Three of the most beautiful beaches on the island
Therefore, when going on vacation to this picturesque corner of Indonesia, think about what you want: relax and lie on the beautiful shore, or experience a portion of emotions while fighting the boiling waves. Bali has beaches for everyone! All you have to do is choose the one that suits you.
So, nowhere in the world are there better conditions for surfing than in Bali! If you have been interested in this difficult art for a long time, then go to the resorts of Bali on the southern coast of the island, where beaches await you, ready to welcome both beginners who like to surf the waves on a board and serious professionals.
The best beaches on the south coast of Bali
Kuta
For those who want to combine learning with entertainment and noisy parties, we suggest staying on one of the beaches of the Kuta resort, which last years has become the most popular holiday destination on the island.
This resort is simply ideal for beginner surfers: the waves here are small, and there are no pitfalls or reefs near the shore, so all falls will be without injury. After an intense workout, you can go to a bar or night club- there are plenty of such establishments on the coast! Music in Kuta does not stop even at night.
Balangan
If you are already confident enough on the board, then go to the southernmost point of Bali - the Bukit Peninsula and settle down on Balangan Beach.
There are always fast, medium-sized waves that will help you hone your skills.
Be careful:
there are many sharp stones and depressions at the bottom - the entire beach strip is covered with volcanic rock. Disadvantage: it is difficult to enter the water without damaging your feet without special shoes.
Padang-Padang
For those who prefer a relaxing holiday in the sun, the island has Padang Padang Beach (on the Bukit Peninsula), which tourists have nicknamed the pearl of Bali.
There are no waves here, the shore is surrounded beautiful rocks, and within walking distance there is a cafe where you will be offered refreshments and snacks.
Its only drawback is that it is crowded during the high season.
Nusa Dua
The most elite hotels in Bali and many sandy beaches with the purest sand and clear ocean are located in the resort of Nusa Dua. If you value comfort and are willing to pay a lot of money for it, then without a doubt, go to Nusa Dua Beach.
Not far from the coast of Nusa Dua there is a long coral reef that prevents the waves from approaching the shore, so there are no storms here. This resort is perfect for sea fishing and families with children.
Before you go there, study the tide schedule: here the water goes out for almost a kilometer and swimming in such conditions is impossible.
Jimbaran
Snow-white sandy beaches and clear water will greet you in Jimbaran, a tiny village in the southwest of the island. This place is ideal for a romantic getaway. Jimbaran Beach stretches along the entire village for several kilometers.
There are many restaurants along the coast that serve the most delicious fish and seafood in Bali. During the day you can peacefully swim in the ocean (the waves in Jimbaran are small and only enhance the pleasure of swimming), and in the evening you can watch a magnificent sunset.
The best beaches on the northern coast of Bali
Lovina
On the northern coast of Bali is favorite place divers from all over the world - the Lovina resort, famous for its “black” beaches.
The coast of Lovina Beach is really dark in color: it is completely covered with volcanic sand. There is no storm here, and the nature is simply amazing!
From the shore you will see how dolphins frolic in the ocean, and when you dive to the bottom with scuba gear, you can watch schools of tropical fish proudly cutting through the expanses of water.
Amed
The ideal place for a beach holiday is Amed Beach in eastern Bali.
Here you can not only enjoy the tranquility of the sea, but also appreciate all the beauty underwater world ocean. You can study colorful fish while snorkeling close to the shore, thanks to the close proximity of coral reefs. Amed is a beach where there is no fine sand; here you can see either stones or sand of volcanic origin.
Bali is not called a tourist paradise for nothing. Indian Ocean created dozens of amazing beaches here, stunning in their beauty. The uniqueness of the island lies in the fact that it is universal; any tourist can find a suitable place for themselves. To decide which beach is best to relax on in Bali, you need to immediately decide on your vacation plans. For example, the most picturesque diving spots are located in the eastern part of the island. But surfers will be delighted with the west coast with its huge waves and deserted beaches.
The Bukit Peninsula is especially popular among visitors. These are places of amazing scenery, white sand and great surfing. This is where the most beautiful beaches of Bali are located. You can read more about this wonderful island from a tourist point of view on the website spiritrelax.ru.
TOP 10 beaches
No. 1. Dreamland
Top on the list is Dreamland, a small secluded beach hidden among picturesque rocks. This is truly a dream country. It is located just 30 kilometers from the city of Kuta, but it seems like a fragment of another world. Tourists here are greeted by white-golden sand, an azure sea, which is never calm even in calm weather, and distance from the noise of cities. It is not very suitable for swimming with children due to the constant waves, but for surfers it is a real paradise. The wavelength here reaches 3 hundred meters, and this is the largest in the world. There are no underwater rocks or reefs on Dreamland, so you can catch waves to your heart's content.
Another advantage of the beach is its privacy. The only infrastructure here is a cozy hotel with a restaurant, several bungalows scattered along the shore and sun loungers with umbrellas.
No. 2. Nusa Dua
This is one of the most luxurious and fashionable beaches on the island. It is ideal for a serene family vacation. Nusa Dua is rightfully considered one of the best beaches in Bali for swimming. There are almost never strong waves here; in the shallow calm waters near the shore you can swim with children without fear. A wide strip of dazzling white sand is surrounded by comfortable hotels, and numerous restaurants and cafes are scattered along the shore. The beach is surrounded by palm trees, mango trees, fragrant flowers and orchids of the most different types. All this creates a completely enchanting view.
No. 3. Padang-Padang
Bali's white sand beaches are best advertised by Padang Padang. The soft, shiny sand is the reason for one of the charming features of this place: there are absolutely no sun loungers. Padang Padang is especially popular among tourists with children, since the descent into the water is very smooth and there are almost no waves, so the shallow waters are perfect for kids.
Another feature of the beach is its interesting location. Despite the soft surf, rocks rise out of the water very close, the steep waves near which are favored by surfers. There is an excellent view from the shore, and sometimes competitions in this sport are even held here. A few years ago, scenes for the movie “Eat, Pray, Love” were filmed on the beach, after which tourists first learned about this paradise.
No. 4. Seminyak
A real Mecca for those who believe that with the sunset real relaxation it's just beginning. The beach is famous for its discos, nightclubs and restaurants open around the clock. The highlight of the beach are the colorful ceremonies in the traditions of local residents. For those who want to make their holiday unforgettable and experience the maximum, Seminyak is ideal.
No. 5. Pandava
Best beaches In Bali, swimming areas are located in the southern part of the island. Here, almost on the edge of the Bukit Peninsula, is located one of the most fantastic places in Bali - Pandawa Beach. There is an entrance fee, but the view is worth it. Several temples and statues of deities add to the beauty of the clear blue sea and white sand.
There are all possibilities for a beach holiday: from sun loungers and cafes to parking for native boats - kayaks, which can be rented for a small fee. A pleasant bonus is the almost complete absence of anxiety. And those who are tired of swimming and sunbathing can take a walk along the road to the picturesque rocks that approach the water itself.
Confirmation that this is one of the best beaches on the island of Bali is the fact that independent travelers come here to relax, and they, as you know, choose only the most comfortable, interesting and picturesque places. By the way, anyone can visit Bali without the help of an intermediary. A self-organized vacation is much more interesting and varied than a regular “package” vacation. Find out for yourself how to go to Bali on your own, this information will help you save up to 70% of your money.
No. 6. Geger
One of the best beaches in Bali for swimming with children. The quiet shallow waters are protected from the sea by a coral reef, and there are never large waves here. But there is a developed infrastructure and a wide strip of soft white sand.
Geger has interesting feature: This is one of the few beaches where topless sunbathing is allowed.
No. 7. Balangan
The beach is famous for its absolutely enchanting, seemingly alien, landscape. The coast here is covered with volcanic rock and unusually shaped depressions in the ground. This place has long been chosen by surfing enthusiasts. But you shouldn’t swim here because of the uneven, treacherous bottom. It is much more pleasant to sunbathe on a sun lounger or relax in one of the small cafes.
No. 8. Kuta
This is not the best place for swimming, but its popularity is still enormous. Kuta is simply made for stunning surfing and a night out in numerous clubs and bars. Night life It's no less vibrant here than during the day. The main disadvantage tourists rightly call traffic jams, in which you can stand for more than one hour.
No. 9. Sanur
Another quiet corner for a family holiday. The long strip of golden beach is protected by a coral reef, so the surf here is very soft and suitable for swimming even with very young children. The bottom drops very slowly, and at low tide the water opens up a wide strip of bottom. On which, if you are lucky, you can find underwater inhabitants who did not have time to escape. There are also several nightclubs and cafes, but there are very few of them.
No. 10. Amed
A stunning combination of quiet azure waves and black volcanic sand. Divers consider this place to be the best scuba diving spot in Bali. The coral reefs here start right next to the shore; you don’t even need to take a boat to see them. And a little deeper at the bottom lies an ancient sunken ship - the special pride of the beach. However, this calm, picturesque bay is also ideal for a holiday with children.