Uluwatu is the go-to destination for a laid-back, trendy vibe in Bali. Located on the edge of the island, it offers stunning views with its limestone cliffs, azure waters, and white sand beaches. Uluwatu arguably shows off the most beautiful beaches in Bali. Discover five of the best things to do in Uluwatu, including the top beaches to visit.
- Explore the Best Beaches of Bali
- Delpi Café (Incredible View) – Suluban Beach
- Balangan Viewpoint
- Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance
- Surfing
1
Explore the Best Beaches of Bali
Uluwatu is celebrated for its breathtaking beaches, often regarded as some of the best in Bali, if not the entire world. The combination of white sand, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs creates a stunning backdrop that captivates every visitor. Among the most popular beaches, Nyang-Nyang Beach stands out for its secluded and pristine environment. This beach requires a bit of a hike to reach, but the reward is an unspoiled stretch of sand that feels like a private paradise. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a tranquil day by the sea.
Thomas Beach is another gem known for its laid-back atmosphere and picturesque setting. With its soft sand and turquoise waves, it’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or just relaxing with a book. This beach is less crowded than others, making it perfect for travelers seeking a more peaceful experience.
Bingin Beach is famous among surfers and photographers alike. The tide pools and unique rock formations create excellent photo opportunities, while the waves draw surfers from around the globe. It’s also lined with charming cafes and guesthouses, giving it a cozy, bohemian vibe.
Finally, Padang-Padang Beach—often featured in films and known for its small entrance through a narrow rock passage—boasts inviting waters and a lively atmosphere. Each of these beaches offers something unique, from calm, sun-soaked shores to more adventurous settings, ensuring that there’s a perfect spot for every type of traveler.
2
Delpi Café (Incredible View) – Suluban Beach
Delpi Café is a hidden treasure that we discovered during our visit to Suluban Beach, and it’s a place I highly recommend adding to your itinerary. Nestled above the beach, this café offers a panoramic view that will leave you in awe. The seating area overlooks the vibrant blue waters and the rugged coastline, creating an unforgettable setting to enjoy a snack or drink. We opted for a small fruit platter, which was refreshing and paired perfectly with the stunning scenery.
Suluban Beach itself is well-known for its unique landscape, including hidden caves and rocky alcoves. It’s also the home of the renowned Blue Point surf break, attracting surfers who come to test their skills on the challenging waves. Watching surfers take on the powerful swells while enjoying a treat at Delpi Café adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience. This spot is perfect for taking in the best of Uluwatu’s natural beauty without rushing.
3
Balangan Viewpoint
Balangan Viewpoint offers one of the most scenic and iconic views in Uluwatu, making it a must-visit for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This viewpoint is perched at the northern tip of Balangan Beach, providing sweeping views of the coastline, the endless expanse of the Indian Ocean, and the lush greenery that surrounds the area. While I didn’t get the chance to visit this spot personally, it comes highly recommended by locals and fellow travelers for its breathtaking panorama, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Reaching Balangan Viewpoint is relatively easy, and the short walk to the top is well worth the effort. The vantage point offers not only a place to take stunning photos but also a serene spot to sit and take in the beauty of Uluwatu. The golden hues of the sun setting over the ocean, casting shadows on the cliffs and illuminating the waves below, create an unforgettable scene that showcases the natural splendor of Bali. If you have time to spare, bring a picnic or a drink and watch the sky change colors as day turns to night—it’s an experience you won’t forget.
Stay connected! Follow us on social media for exclusive content & updates on our travels.
On our website, you’ll find all the essential information and tips, while on our social media, you’ll get even more – including personal experiences, funny moments, stunning videos, and much more!
4
Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance
The Uluwatu Temple is beautiful and attracts many tourists. There is an entrance fee of 50k IDR to access the temple.
In my opinion, the highlight is the Kecak Fire Dance, a unique performance held every day at 6 pm, lasting about an hour. When we visited in January, only cash payments were accepted, and the ticket price was 150k IDR. We arrived 15 minutes before the show, but all tickets were sold out. Luckily, we learned there was a second performance from 7 pm to 8 pm, so we bought our tickets and got to enjoy the show.
The Reality and My Opinion on the Dance:
While it’s called the Kecak Fire Dance, there isn’t much fire involved. The most impressive and unique part of this performance is the group of over 65 men using only their voices as instruments. I had never seen anything like it, and that’s what made it special. However, if you’re not into art or history, this dance might not be for you. What you see in videos is mostly what the performance looks like for the entire hour. Some characters appear as the show progresses, but it can feel repetitive. Many people commented on this, and I agree. Personally, I think 10 minutes would be enough for most people, but the performance lasts a full hour. Despite the redundancy, I believe missing out on this experience would be worse than sitting through the entire show.
5
Surfing
Uluwatu is synonymous with surfing, and it’s no surprise that surfers from around the world flock to this part of Bali to ride its famous waves. The area offers a range of surf spots suitable for different skill levels, making it a hotspot for both beginners and experienced surfers. For those just starting, Padang-Padang Beach provides gentle, beginner-friendly waves that are perfect for learning the basics of surfing. Surf schools along the beach offer lessons with professional instructors who can guide you through your first rides, making the experience safe and enjoyable.
The iconic Blue Point near Suluban Beach is particularly popular, known for its consistent swells and stunning backdrop of cliffs and clear waters. Surfing in Uluwatu isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. The laid-back surf culture is evident in the many surf shops, beachside cafes, and relaxed atmosphere that permeates the area.
Even if you’re not planning to surf, watching the surfers from the shore is an activity in itself. The sight of surfers gracefully carving through the waves against the backdrop of Uluwatu’s dramatic cliffs and vibrant sunsets is mesmerizing. It’s easy to see why this destination is considered a top surfing spot worldwide.
What’s Next?
Now that you know the best activities in Uluwatu, it’s time to plan your trip! Here are some articles that could be helpful :
Don’t want to miss out on our latest articles? Be sure to subscribe to our website, and you’ll receive a notification every time we publish something new!
Like this post? Pin it for later!
