Travel

12 Of The Best Bali Beaches Every Traveller Needs To Explore

Written by:
Madeline Wallman
an aerial of shoreline with palm trees

Bali and beaches go together like Bintangs and breezy sarongs. But with so many glorious stretches of sand to choose from, picking where to lay your towel can feel like a full-time job. So naturally, I nobly volunteered as tribute to do the 'research' (read: beach hopping, coconut sipping and sunset scouting) to bring you this glorified travel bucket list.

Whether you’re chasing a secret little cove to hide away in or a pumping shoreline with DJs and daiquiris, Bali’s beaches have something for every kind of vibe. Sunscreen up and dive in—these are the best beaches in Bali.

Echo Beach

Echo Beach
Image credit: Aditya Nara | Getty Images

Right in the heart of trendy Canggu sits Echo Beach, the surfer’s paradise that’s become one of Bali’s most popular hotspots.

It wasn’t always this buzzing. On my first trip to Bali more than 15 years ago, it was but a quiet little surf spot for locals and tourists chasing waves. And while it still pulls surfers from around the globe eager to tackle its reef breaks, Eacho Beach has transformed into one of Bali's hippest hoods. The main strip is now packed with beach clubs, acai bars, day spas, tattoo parlours and restaurants for refuelling after a day out on the water. 

Nothing beats grabbing a cocktail at La Brisa or The Lawn, kicking back with friends, and toasting to another flawless Bali day as the sky melts into the sea. 

Jimbaran Bay

Jimbaran Bay
Image credit: Ayadi Ghaith | Unsplash

If you ask me, no trip to Bali would be complete without a luxe seafood dinner with your toes in the sand at Jimbaran Bay. The shoreline is dotted with countless restaurants, each with tables and beach umbrellas perched right at the water’s edge, delivering the ultimate sea-to-table experience. And it’s not just about dinner: the calm bay is just as perfect for daytime feasting and kicking back, with plenty to see and do around here.

Some of my all-time favourite evenings in Bali have been spent at Jimbarana Bay, watching the sky put on a show with a Bintang in one hand and a fork tearing through fresh seafood in the other. Don't be surprised if a mariachi band shows up at your table taking requests (just don't forget to tip then, either). 

Green Bowl Beach

I know this phrase gets thrown around a lot, but I really do mean it when I say that Green Bowl Beach in Ungasan might be Bali's best-kept secret. You’ll need to tackle a steep staircase to get down, but once you arrive, the payoff is crystal-clear waters and stunning ocean views that make every step worthwhile. 

For surfers, Green Bowl offers some solid waves for intermediate to pro riders, so don’t forget your board. If chilling is more your thing, local vendors have you covered with snacks and drinks. Just keep an eye on your belongings—those crafty monkeys around the parking area are notorious for grabbing anything left unattended.

Sanur Beach

Sanur Beach
Image credit: Dyah Arum | Unsplash

Sanur Beach has quietly carved out its own niche as the laid-back antidote to the chaos of Seminyak, Kuta, and Legian. Stretching over five kilometers of mostly uninterrupted, sparkling shoreline, it’s one of the rare spots where families can actually relax without battling crowds for prime sand real estate.

Whenever kids are in tow, Sanur is my go-to for a stress-free day out. I love how easy it is to set up camp for hours, soak up the sun, and grab lunch from the local beachside carts—perfect if you’re feeling adventurous or just really, really hungry. The ocean stays calm, the mood stays mellow, and the only dash you’ll make is to snag seconds at the nasi goreng stall.

Suluban Beach

Suluban Beach
Image credit: Vhi Rhi | Unsplash

I'm almost hesitant to include Suluban in this list, but leaving it out would be a disservice. For those keen to get away from Bali's busy hubs, Suluban Beach offers gorgeous, clear waters and untouched white sand directly below Uluwatu’s popular Single Fin bar.

Access is not particularly quick or easy. You'll have to navigate a maze of stairs and caves, but the turquoise waters at the final destination are worth every step. Suluban is also the launching pad for the famous Uluwatu Surf Break, so if you’ve got a board and a thirst for waves, don’t forget to bring them along. It’s a spot where adventure meets serenity, ideal for anyone craving a slice of Bali that skips the crowds. 

Kelingking Beach

Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida is Bali’s ultimate jaw-drop moment. You've likely seen the photos but the iconic T-rex shaped cliff taking a bite out of the aquamarine waters is even more breathtaking in person. 

Getting down to the beach itself is a bit of an adventure: a steep, rugged trail that’s definitely not for the faint-hearted, but every nerve-wracking step leads you to soft white sand and waves begging for a refreshing dip.

Don’t make my mistake—ditch the Tevas and instead wear sturdy shoes, plus plenty of water for the trek. I'd also recommend aiming to arrive early to beat the crowds and soak up that sunrise magic with zero selfie sticks in sight.

Thomas Beach

Thomas Beach
Image credit: Nisangha | Getty Images

At the end of a gravel lane and long, winding staircase lies Thomas Beach, one of the last peaceful pockets on the Bukit Peninsula. Even though a bunch of cool restaurants have popped up near the entrance point in recent years, the beach itself stays blissfully chilled, with plenty of room to stretch out on the sand and soak up the serenity.

I’ve posted up here for sunset more than once and honestly, it’s hard to beat. Whether you’re after a romantic detour or just a quiet break from Bali’s busier corners, this little Uluwatu hideaway is always a good idea.

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Bingin Beach

Bingin Beach
Image credit: Konstantin Trubavin | Getty Images

Follow the handmade wooden signs down the steep, uneven steps and you'll find a dreamy little cove flanked by cliffs, dotted with warungs, and lapped by crystal-clear water.

Bingin Beach is beloved by bohos, surfers and sunset chasers alike. The surf break here is beginner-friendly (though take it from me, it doesn't necessary mean you'll actually catch a wave...) with board rentals and lessons easy to come by, but it;s just as suited to experienced surfers wanting to have a bit of fun.

Heads-up: at high tide, the already narrow stretch of sand all but disappears, so get down early if you want to claim a patch.

Karma Beach

Karma Beach Bali
Image credit: Studio1One | Getty Images

Karma Beach feels like someone plucked a little slice of the Med and dropped it on the Bukit Peninsula. Think white sun loungers, turquoise water and a soundtrack of laid-back house beats wafting from the beach bar. It’s the private beach attached to Karma Kandara Resort, but non-guests can buy a day pass (and trust me, it’s worth it).

Whether you’re into snorkelling and watersports or just lazing around with a designer cocktail in hand, this place delivers on all fronts. It’s totally OTT in the best possible way. Expect polished service, polished people and more than a few frozen margaritas. Delightful.

Dreamland Beach

Dreamland Beach
Image credit: Didier Marti | Getty Images

Though it's officially known as New Kuta Beach, us Aussies have aptly named this stretch of white sand ‘Dreamland Beach’. It's located in Uluwatu about 30 minutes from the heart of the city, it's a haven for families with wide open spaces and relatively wave-free waters.

No dodging sharp rocks or busy roads here. Just pop up an umbrella, kick back and watch the kids run wild without a care in the world. A family day at the beach has never been so effortlessly chill. 

Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan
Image credit: Alfiano Sutianto | Getty Images

While not technically part of Bali, this little island paradise is one of my favourite day trips. Despite being just a 30-minute ferry ride from the mainland, it feels worlds away, with far fewer crowds and a much slower pace than bustling Bali.

The moment you step off the boat, you’re met with powder-white sands and crystal-clear waters that feel straight out of a postcard. I love how chilled and laid-back Lembongan is compared to the mainland. It’s a great spot spot to snorkel, paddleboard, or just slow right down. 

Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida
Image credit: Alfiano Sutianto | Unsplash

Another cheeky boat ride away lies Nusa Penida, famous for its wildly Instagrammable turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs that look like they belong in a travel magazine. This southeast island is super hilly, meaning that if you’re willing to do some climbing, you can nab some divine views any time of the day or night from above.

My hot tip is to head up towards sunset to see some incredible orange and pink hues across the horizon. I'd also recommend checking out the ace Airbnbs scattered around if you decide to stretch your stay, because I can guarantee you won't want to leave. 

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Image credit: Reezky Pradata, EyeEm | Getty Images

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