26 Best beaches in Bali: where to swim and where to catch a wave

Bali has more than a hundred beaches, and almost every one looks like a postcard. But swimming and surfing require different shores. In the west, the ocean pushes up waves taller than a person, while in the east the water barely moves.

Since 2024, every foreign tourist pays a Bali levy of 150,000 rupiah, about 10 dollars (as of 09/2026, Love Bali). You pay it once per trip, right in the provincial government's app.

Below are 26 beaches on the island with descriptions of the shore, the seabed, and the waves. We've listed the length of the shoreline, the type of sand, and where it's safe to swim. Each spot comes with a photo and an honest catch.

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How to choose a beach in Bali

💡 In short:

• Swimming: calm water in the east (Sanur, Geger, Nikko) and in Jimbaran Bay.
• Surfing: west and southwest (Batu Bolong, Canggu, Echo, Uluwatu).
• Seclusion: Nyang Nyang, Melasti, Amed-Bunutan.
• Beach access and infrastructure: checked 09/2026 on the official Indonesia tourism website.

The ocean in Bali behaves differently on each coast. Coral reefs break the waves in the east and south, so even children swim there safely. The western beaches are open to the Indian Ocean, and at high tide the waves rise above two meters.

1. Balangan

Balangan stretches for 600 meters along the western coast of the Bukit Peninsula. A staircase in the northern part leads down to the water, and the shore, only 15 meters wide, is left almost free of buildings. A few small cafes with showers and toilets sit along the cliffs. Loungers and umbrellas occupy the entire shoreline.

Entering the ocean here requires caution. Sharp rocks, seaweed, and deep depressions lie underwater near the shore. At strong low tide, the water recedes and exposes volcanic rock with a reddish hue. That's why the place has been nicknamed "Martian."

• Who it's for: surfers and those looking for a lesser-known shore.
• The catch: swimming is risky, the waves are high and rough.

2. Nusa Dua

© GdML · CC BY-SAPhoto: GdML, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Nusa Dua lies in the eastern part of the Bukit Peninsula, 12 km from Denpasar Airport (by map). The resort was built for the local elite, so upscale hotels and restaurants have risen here. Beach access, as well as umbrellas and loungers, is paid. There are showers, changing rooms, and toilets.

A coral reef closes the bay off from the waves, so the ocean here is calm and the entry into the water is gradual. Small waves suit beginner surfers. A running and cycling path runs along the shore, and tropical trees grow by the water and provide shade.

• Who it's for: families with children and comfort lovers.
• The catch: entry and loungers are paid, the shore is densely built up with hotels.

3. Batu Bolong

© Made agus devayana · CC BY-SAPhoto: Made agus devayana, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Batu Bolong is part of the Canggu beach chain, which stretches along the coast for almost 8 km. It's about 15 km from Denpasar Airport (by map). The waves here are high, and the shore is covered with black volcanic sand. There is no infrastructure on the beach.

The place is loved not only by surfers. People meditate here, seek solitude, and learn to stand on a board at the local surf school. From the shore you can see the Hindu temple Pura Batu Bolong above the water and rice fields. A cafe with quality food and live music operates nearby.

• Who it's for: surfers and those tired of noisy resorts.
• The catch: almost no infrastructure, strong waves.

4. Dreamland

© Arisdp · CC BYPhoto: Arisdp, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Dreamland on the western coast of the Bukit Peninsula grew up on a coral reef. A 500-meter strip of fine yellow sand is surrounded by limestone cliffs with ornate patterns. At the foot of the cliffs, the sand transitions into black volcanic sand.

Entering the ocean starts with a sandy bottom, but further out there's a rocky section. The waves here are steep and often roll in as three sets, so swimming is unsafe. Red flags warn of the risk. The lowest waves occur after low tide.

• Who it's for: surfers and body surfers.
• The catch: swimming is dangerous, rocks near the shore.

5. Kuta

© Christophe95 · CC BY-SAPhoto: Christophe95, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Kuta occupies the southwest of the island, its shore stretching for 4 km. The beach width varies from 30 to 40 meters, but there's enough room for everyone, even in high season. The bottom here is even, and the entry into the water is gradual.

The waves at Kuta are not high and suit beginners. You can rent a board at a rental point, and numerous instructors on the shore give lessons. Children and teenagers are better off staying on the sand. A thick strip of trees lines the promenade, with hotels, bars, restaurants, and shops along it.

• Who it's for: beginner surfers and fans of a lively promenade.
• The catch: swimming is not recommended for children, very crowded.

6. Sanur

© Arthamade · CC BY-SAPhoto: Arthamade, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Sanur in the east of the island is almost wave-free. The coastline is a series of beaches under one name. Many sections are occupied by boats and launches that take divers to dive sites.

Free beaches are usually maintained by first-line hotels. There, umbrellas and loungers stand on clean sand. At rental points you'll find jet skis, parasailing gear, snorkeling and fishing equipment. The calm waters are suitable for swimming even for small children.

• Who it's for: families with children and a quiet getaway without noise.
• The catch: many boats near the shore, almost no nightlife.

7. Pandawa

© Herryz · CC BY-SAPhoto: Herryz, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Pandawa lies at the southern tip of the Bukit Peninsula, among low canyons. The road to the shore was cut straight through the cliffs. Figures of the Pandava brothers from the ancient Indian epic are carved into the cliff along the road, and the beach is named after them.

The shore is covered with white sand with a golden tint. Vegetation grows in separate oases, and a row of paid umbrellas and loungers runs along it. In the center there are showers, bio-toilets, and cafes on the second line. A pier with a gazebo leads out to clear turquoise water, through which you can see the bottom with rocks and corals.

• Who it's for: those who want to combine swimming and beautiful views.
• The catch: comfortable swimming only at low tide, at high tide waves reach up to 1.5 m.

8. Legian

© Jorge Láscar from Melbourne, Australia · CC BYPhoto: Jorge Láscar from Melbourne, Australia, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), Wikimedia Commons

Legian, 1.4 km long, lies between Kuta and Seminyak; together they form 10 km of beachfront in the southwest. The sand here is gray, a trace of ancient volcanic eruptions. Staff constantly clean the area.

The bottom is sandy, without rocks or corals, but swimming is inconvenient. At low tide, the shallows extend 10 meters from the shore, and at high tide powerful waves appear. It's better to sunbathe under an umbrella, play sports, or go surfing. Lifeguards constantly monitor safety.

• Who it's for: beach relaxation, sports, and surfing.
• The catch: swimming is inconvenient due to low tides and waves.

9. Seminyak

© Christophe95 · CC BY-SAPhoto: Christophe95, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Seminyak sits north of Kuta and is considered a premium resort area. Beachfront hotels open directly onto the shore with fine dark sand. The beach zone is about 2 km long, and its width varies from 5 to 40 meters.

The entry into the water is gradual, with a sandy bottom. Waves sometimes reach up to two meters, which surfers love and swimmers find dangerous. Strong rip currents occur near the shore. Swimming is allowed only where there are no red flags, and lifeguards monitor this.

• Who it's for: surfers and fans of premium resorts.
• The catch: currents and waves, swimming only in designated areas.

10. Canggu

© Schweigeblick · CC BY-SAPhoto: Schweigeblick, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Canggu's beaches stretch for 8 km west of Kuta, with Denpasar Airport about 15 km away (on the map). The shore is covered with black volcanic sand. The atmosphere here is laid-back, so people come for yoga and meditation.

The high-wave season runs from April to November, when surfers ride from morning to evening. Hotels of various star ratings are available, and for board lovers there are surf camps where guiding is included in the cost of accommodation. There are no umbrellas or loungers, as strong winds make it impossible to secure them.

• Who it's for: surfers and those who prefer an unhurried pace.
• The catch: swimming is dangerous during the rainy season, and there are no loungers on the beach.

11. Echo

© Meetvas · CC BY-SAPhoto: Meetvas, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Echo is in the southwest, in the Canggu area, where the shore is covered with dark volcanic sand. The wind and the sound of the surf create a special acoustic here, which is where the name comes from. The water is clean and the waves are powerful, so experienced surfers appreciate this spot.

A beginner won't be able to handle the local wave. At the rental point you can get a board and advice from an instructor. The beach is not safe for swimming. Those who prefer a laid-back time rent a sun umbrella and a lounger, and you can bring your own gear. Several cafes with canopies sit near the shore.

• Who it's for: experienced surfers and those who want to listen to the ocean.
• The catch: swimming is not safe, and the wave is not suitable for beginners.

12. Jimbaran

© Sarah Lou · CC BYPhoto: Sarah Lou, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), Wikimedia Commons

Jimbaran lies on the south coast next to Denpasar Airport. The beach stretches for 4 km and extends inland up to 50 meters. The bay is sheltered from the wind and protected from high and low tides, so it is always calm here.

The southern section has the calmest water, an easy entry, and a safe bottom. It is the best place for swimming and works even for children. During the day it is not crowded, and local vendors don't bother you. The northern part is rocky, with fishing boats and a fish market. Hotel and cafe staff constantly clean the area.

• Who it's for: families with children and calm swimming.
• The catch: the northern section is rocky and inconvenient for swimming.

13. Bingin

Bingin occupies a cliff-lined stretch of shore near Pecatu village in the west of the Bukit Peninsula. The beach is covered with yellowish sand. When you enter the water you feel a rocky bottom, but in some places there are sandy corridors.

© Jumilla · CC BYPhoto: Jumilla, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/), Flickr

At high tide, the waves at Bingin come one after another. Many tourists don't risk getting into the water at all. For surfers, this is an ideal place to catch a wave. Surf hotels and guesthouses are nearby, and you can rent gear at a shop by the shore. In season it gets crowded, and in the evenings cafes move their tables right onto the sand.

• Who it's for: surfers and lovers of sunsets over the ocean.
• The catch: at high tide the waves get in the way of swimming, and in season it is very crowded.

14. Uluwatu

© GeoffClarke · CC BY-SAPhoto: GeoffClarke, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Uluwatu in the south of the island draws visitors with its unusual character. You reach the shore through a narrow gorge. The strip of fine white sand is only 30 meters long and 5 meters wide, and it fully opens up only at low tide. Bizarre rock formations rise out of the ocean, which is why photographers come here.

Surfers are drawn by the powerful wave that has become legendary here. Competitions and beginner lessons are often held at Uluwatu. There is almost no infrastructure. Only a few cafes sit on a high hill where you can grab a bite and enjoy the panoramic view from above.

• Who it's for: photographers and experienced surfers.
• The catch: the beach opens up only at low tide, and the shore is tiny.

15. Nyang Nyang

Wild Nyang Nyang spreads out near Pecatu village in the southwest of the Bukit Peninsula. It lies on the route to the Uluwatu Temple. The wide shore reaches up to 60 meters to the water's edge.

© User:(WT-shared) Burmesedays · CC BY-SAPhoto: User:(WT-shared) Burmesedays, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

There are no cafes, bars, umbrellas, or loungers here. Nyang Nyang attracts with its untouched nature and quiet. Swimming is rarely convenient: the water gets deep right at the entry, and strong waves can occur. It is better to swim at low tide. A steep road with a staircase of 550 steps leads to the western part, and you may encounter monkeys along the way.

• Who it's for: those looking for quiet and wild nature.
• The catch: swimming is dangerous because of the sudden depth and waves.

16. Nikko

© Gsarwa · CC BY-SAPhoto: Gsarwa, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Nikko is in the southeast of the island, in the Nusa Dua area. The beach is covered with white coral sand, and for almost the whole year you can sunbathe and swim in calm water here. High and low tides barely change the water level, and waves don't bother swimmers.

The hotel provides a shower, toilet, and loungers for guests. The scenic nature attracts people who love photo shoots. It never gets crowded, and hotels have rooms available even in season. There is a parking area by the shore, and from there you go down stone steps to the beach.

• Who it's for: a relaxed getaway and photo shoots.
• The catch: far from the shore there are strong underwater currents, and you must not swim out there.

17. Geger

© Gsarwa · CC BY-SAPhoto: Gsarwa, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Quiet, secluded Geger lies in the southeast, not far from Nusa Dua. It is loved for its white, soft sand that feels pleasant to walk on barefoot. The shoreline runs for almost 2 km, and in places the width reaches 70 meters.

A coral reef rises out of the water about a kilometer from the shore. It breaks the waves, so the water in the area is clean and calm. The shallows extend far from the water's edge, so children and inexperienced swimmers can swim here. Tall palm trees line the whole stretch, and umbrellas and loungers are available for rent nearby.

• Who it's for: families with children and fans of calm swimming.
• The catch: because of the shallows, you can't swim far out.

18. Tanjung Benoa

© Anton Leddin · CC BY-SAPhoto: Anton Leddin, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

The resort town of Tanjung Benoa is located on a scenic south coast with lush tropical vegetation. Tourists are drawn here by the beach with light coral sand and clean, transparent water. Hotels of various categories sit nearby, some operating on an all-inclusive basis.

A hundred meters from the shore, a coral reef with turtles and sea snakes rises out of the water. Locals take visitors there by boat. The infrastructure is well developed: umbrellas, loungers, water activities, bars, and restaurants. Hotel reception desks post high and low tide times, which matters for surfers and swimmers.

• Who it's for: families and fans of developed infrastructure.
• The catch: because of the boats and the reef, part of the shore is occupied, and the water is clean only on a calm day.

19. Padang Bai

© Alexey Komarov · CC BY-SAPhoto: Alexey Komarov, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Padang Bai is a resort village in the eastern part of the island. Three scenic beaches sit nearby, and the one with the same name resembles a port promenade. Its area is covered with grayish sand mixed with fine pebbles.

Padang Bai is not well suited for a typical beach vacation. Fishing boats and sailboats occupy most of the shore, so swimming here is inconvenient. But divers and snorkelers love the place: they take boats out to coral reefs with rich colors. For swimming, people head from here to Blue Lagoon and Bias Tugel.

• Who it's for: divers and snorkelers.
• The catch: the shore is taken up by boats, there is nowhere to swim.

20. Blue Lagoon

The cozy Blue Lagoon lies near the Padang Bai resort in the eastern part of the island. It is only 50 meters long, and at low tide its width reaches 10 meters. At high tide most of the beach goes underwater.

The surface here is unusual, a mix of light coral and dark volcanic sand. Low cliffs border the sides of the lagoon, and the bottom is rocky in most places. A coral reef hides underwater not far from the shore, and divers enter right from the beach. Loungers and umbrellas are set up on a concrete platform higher up.

• Who it's for: snorkeling and shore diving.
• The catch: at high tide the beach almost completely disappears underwater.

21. Candidasa

© Steijlen, Fridus. · CC BYPhoto: Steijlen, Fridus., CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Candidasa is a resort with luxury hotels and villas on the east coast. It is not well suited for those who want to soak in the ocean water. Instead, people come here for scenic nature, peace and quiet, and also for diving and snorkeling.

There is no beach in the usual sense here. A concrete promenade occupies most of the shore, and where it is absent, small patches of pebbles and stones remain. Hotels have added several small beaches with umbrellas and loungers. The only developed spot, Candidasa Beach, is a stone embankment with a pier and a rocky entry into the sea.

• Who it's for: a quiet getaway, diving and snorkeling.
• The catch: there is no proper sandy beach, and the water entry is rocky.

22. White Sand Beach

© Alexey Komarov · CC BYPhoto: Alexey Komarov, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

On the east coast, near the small town of Amlapura, lies White Sand Beach. It lives up to its name: among the neighboring dark beaches, it stands out with its snow-white sand. The beach stretches along a lagoon one and a half kilometers long with clean water in turquoise shades.

Entry is paid, and loungers and umbrellas are included. There are almost no big waves in the lagoon. Swimming is recommended on the left side, because a coral reef lies on the bottom of the right side. Not far from the shore, a small islet with a lone tree rises out of the water, and local boatmen will take you out to it.

• Who it's for: calm swimming and photos against the white sand.
• The catch: entry is paid, and there are no hotels right on the beach.

23. Amed

© Ch cat · CC BY-SAPhoto: Ch cat, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

The resort of Amed on the east coast consists of 9 villages. The road along the shore winds in switchbacks, opening up views of green hills, rice fields, and beaches. Near the village of the same name, the shore is covered with pebbles mixed with black sand brought by Mount Agung.

There are almost no waves here, and both adults and children enjoy swimming in the clean azure water. The entry into the water is gradual, with a pebbly bottom. The water is so clear that while swimming you can see the bottom and colorful fish. Coral reefs start just 5-10 meters from the shore, which is why divers and snorkelers come here. A dive center with a wide range of services operates nearby, and hotels and restaurants line the entire shore.

• Who it's for: diving, snorkeling, and a quiet getaway.
• The catch: the pebbly entry is uncomfortable barefoot.

24. Amed Bunutan

Amed Bunutan lies near the small village of Bunutan, over the hill east of the village of Amed. The beach is covered with gray sand of volcanic origin and stands out neither for its beauty nor its infrastructure. The water in the area is calm, but there are almost no tourists here.

© F-GSPY · CC BYPhoto: F-GSPY, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Almost the entire shore is taken up by local fishermen's boats. The main advantage of this place is the underwater world, which draws divers from all over the world. They bring their own diving and snorkeling gear and stay in bungalows and authentic guesthouses.

• Who it's for: divers and those who want to get away from the resorts.
• The catch: the shore is occupied by boats, and there is no infrastructure.

25. Lovina

© user:っ/c · CC BY-SAPhoto: user:っ/c, CC BY-SA (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/), Wikimedia Commons

Lovina Beach is a calm and uncrowded resort town on the north coast. The beach, with dark brown sand formed by volcanic eruptions, stretches along the shore for 8 km. The ocean here has a gentle swell, the water is clean and clear, and swimming is comfortable.

The area offers excellent conditions for snorkeling and diving, revealing the riches of the underwater world. From the shore, it's interesting to watch the dolphins that have made these waters their home. Bars and restaurants with live music operate nearby, and there is a dive training center. Fishing and boat trips to see dolphins and the coral reef are popular.

• Who it's for: snorkeling, diving, and dolphin watching.
• The catch: during the rainy season, ocean debris washes up onto the sand.

26. Melasti

Melasti is located in the south of the Bukit Peninsula. The road to it passes through a corridor cut into the cliffs, which leads to the shore through the mysterious Kori Agung gates. The beach is about a kilometer long and is framed by cliffs with caves.

Wave-polished cliffs, snow-white sand, and an ocean in shades of turquoise are breathtaking. A white stone pier with pavilions extends toward the water. There is no infrastructure, except that you can rent a lounger for sunbathing. The entry into the ocean is gradual, with a sandy bottom. Waves roll onto the shore, so not everyone manages to swim. Before visiting, check the tide times, because at high tide the entire beach goes underwater.

• Who it's for: photographers and those looking for unusual cliffs.
• The catch: at high tide the beach goes underwater, and swimming isn't always possible.

Bali beaches for family vacations

The best Bali beaches for a traditional vacation with soft sand and swimming in clear water without waves are on the south and southeast coast. Almost the entire southern shore stands out for its clean beaches with light sand. It's pleasant to run barefoot on it, and children build sandcastles.

This includes the resorts of Nusa Dua, Geger, Nikko, and Sanur. They have a gradual entry into the water and almost no big waves, as coral reefs block their path. All the infrastructure for children is in place: sun umbrellas, loungers, changing rooms, showers, toilets, first-aid stations, cafes, and equipment rental. Lifeguards keep an eye on safety.

Near Nusa Dua, Geger, and Nikko there are hotels ranging from luxury to budget. For children, they offer pools, playgrounds, and entertainment with activity leaders. Nusa Dua has the most leisure options. Kids will enjoy the Surf & Turf park with water attractions, the Devdan Show with dancers and acrobats, and the Bali Collection shopping and entertainment center.

• Important: choose a hotel with a beachfront location, so you won't have to travel to another shore.

Bali hotels with the best beaches

AIIllustrative image: AI-generated

When choosing a package, it's important that a good beach is right at the hotel. That way your vacation time isn't spent on travel. Below are a few Bali hotels located at the island's best beaches.

INAYA Putri Bali 5*

The five-star INAYA Putri Bali sits on the beachfront in the resort area of Nusa Dua. It is a series of villas with elegant rooms, and large windows open onto views of the tropical garden. Every room has air conditioning, a bathroom, a TV, a safe, a free minibar, and Wi-Fi. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, and the restaurant is open from morning until late at night and offers European and Indonesian cuisine. You can arrange dry cleaning and laundry here, and get treatments at the spa center. The front desk is open 24 hours.

See INAYA Putri Bali prices on Trip.com

Lembongan Beach Club & Resort 5*

© 肖红军 · CC BY-SAPhoto: 肖红军, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Lembongan Beach Club & Resort 5* occupies a scenic spot on Nusa Lembongan island. The complex consists of spacious villas in an authentic style. Each villa has a terrace with pool access, a living room with a flat-screen TV and minibar, and a comfortable bathroom. Wi-Fi is free, and the white-sand Jungut Batu Beach is right nearby. The resort organizes outings for divers and snorkelers. In the restaurant, ocean views pair with dishes from various cuisines, and guests barbecue on the shore.

See Lembongan Beach Club prices on Trip.com

Pandawa Beach Resort and Spa Luxury 5*

The spa hotel Pandawa Beach Resort and Spa Luxury 5* is set in the natural landscapes of Nusa Penida island, 11 km from Gamat Bay. The hotel is surrounded by a scenic garden, which is a pleasure to admire from the terrace. Comfortable rooms come with a bathtub and shower, air conditioning, a personal safe, and convenient furniture. Wireless internet is available to guests. The restaurant serves buffet breakfasts, and the menu is expanded with American and Indonesian cuisine. By the pool there is a terrace with loungers and a bar, and you can borrow a bicycle here for free.

See Pandawa Beach Resort prices on Trip.com

The Westin Resort Nusa Dua Bali 5*

The Westin Resort Nusa Dua Bali 5* is hugely popular on the Nusa Dua coast. The complex stands on a beach covered with white sand. Rooms have a bathroom, air conditioning, a safe, and a flat-screen TV, and Wi-Fi is free. Across 7 restaurants, guests choose between Chinese, Japanese, Western European, and local cuisine, and the bar-restaurant prepares seafood barbecue. Guests have access to 5 pools, 5 tennis courts, and a gym. Wellness massages are popular at the spa center.

See The Westin Nusa Dua prices on Trip.com

Pradana beach inn luxury 4*

Pradana beach inn luxury 4* sits on a scenic shore of Nusa Penida island. Guests are welcomed by a 24-hour front desk. The shared terrace offers views of the ocean and a lush garden. Rooms feature modern furniture, air conditioning, and several cable channels, with Wi-Fi available throughout the property. The restaurant serves a continental breakfast every morning and offers Asian, European, and American cuisine during the day. The hotel has both indoor and outdoor pools with a sunbathing terrace.

Check prices for Pradana Beach Inn on Trip.com

Jimbaran bay beach resort and spa 4*

Jimbaran bay beach resort and spa 4* occupies a beachfront spot in the heart of Jimbaran. The spacious rooms are stylishly furnished, with air conditioning and modern appliances, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Balconies open onto mountain scenery and village views. A bar operates by the pool with its terrace and loungers, while another rooftop bar looks straight out at the ocean. The restaurant menu offers a wide selection of Balinese and international dishes. The front desk is open around the clock and rents out bicycles and cars.

Check prices for Jimbaran Bay Beach Resort on Trip.com

Nusa Bay Menjangan 4*

Nusa Bay Menjangan 4* is located in Banyuwedang, within West Bali National Park. The colorful natural surroundings and distinctive architecture draw travelers here. Each room's interior features authentic Balinese decor with wood accents and modern design. Rooms come with a balcony overlooking the garden, a private bathroom, air conditioning, and wireless internet. The restaurant serves guests both indoors and on the seaside terrace. A bar and a terrace with loungers sit by the pool, and the hotel offers a spa and guided walking tours of the park.

Check prices for Nusa Bay Menjangan on Trip.com

Tanjung Sari Inn 3*

Tanjung Sari Inn 3* is a budget-friendly beachfront option between Nusa Dua and Tanjung Benoa. Rooms look out onto a tropical garden, and air conditioning keeps the temperature comfortable. Every room has appliances, a shower, and a toilet. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby. The guesthouse has two pools, one indoor and one outdoor. You can rent a scooter or a car here. There is no on-site restaurant, but places serving international and Balinese cuisine are nearby.

Check prices for Tanjung Sari Inn on Trip.com

Beach safety in Bali

The ocean in Bali is not always safe, and it's better to know that in advance.

• Red flags. Swim only where there are no flags. At Dreamland, Seminyak, and the wild stretches of Pandawa, they are up all the time.
• Tides. At Melasti, the shore goes underwater at high tide; at Pandawa, waves can reach 1.5 m; and at Blue Lagoon, the beach almost completely disappears. Low tide times are posted at hotel front desks.
• Rip currents. Strong currents occur off Seminyak and Nikko, so don't swim far out.
• Rocks and seaweed. At Balangan and Bingin, sharp rocks lie underwater near the shore, and the entry into the sea at Amed is pebbly and uncomfortable barefoot.

Lifeguards patrol the major beaches. In Seminyak, Kuta, and Legian they work year-round, but on wild shores like Nyang Nyang there is no help to be found. Watch the flags and judge the waves yourself.

Bali beaches on the map

Bali's beaches are plotted on a single map. Open it to see how the spots are positioned relative to Denpasar Airport and to each other. That makes it easier to plan a route between shores and avoid spending a whole day on the road.

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

Where in Bali can you swim without strong waves?

Coral reefs break the waves on the east and south of the island. Calm water holds at Nusa Dua, Sanur, Geger, and Nikko, as well as in the southern part of Jimbaran. On the western beaches, from Kuta to Uluwatu, you can swim only at low tide and where there are no red flags.

Which beach should you choose for surfing?

Beginners do well at Kuta and Nusa Dua, where the waves are not high and instructors are on hand. Experienced surfers head to Batu Bolong, Canggu, Echo, Bingin, and Uluwatu, where the swell is powerful and holds from April to November. Those shores are unsafe for swimming in season.

How much does it cost to enter Bali's beaches?

Most beaches are free. Separate fees are charged at Nusa Dua and White Sand Beach, where loungers and umbrellas are already included in the price. On top of that, there is a mandatory tourist levy for foreign visitors, paid once per trip through the Love Bali app.

When is swimming in Bali most comfortable?

On the western beaches, high waves persist from April to November. That suits surfers but gets in the way of swimmers. On the east and south, reefs protect the shore year-round, so you can swim there in any season.

Can you swim in Bali with children?

Yes, and the southern and southeastern beaches are the best fit. In Jimbaran, Geger, Nikko, and Sanur, the water is shallow and calm, and the entry into the ocean is gradual. In Kuta, Seminyak, and on the west of the island, swimming with children is not recommended because of waves and rip currents.

In short: what to book

It all depends on why you're going to Bali.

• If you're traveling with kids: pick a hotel in Nusa Dua or Sanur, where the water is calm and there are shallow areas.
• If you're a surfer: stay in Canggu or near Uluwatu, where the swell holds for most of the year.
• If you want quiet: Amed Bunutan, Lovina, and Melasti fit, with almost no tourists around.
• If infrastructure matters: look at Jimbaran and Tanjung Benoa with their beachfront hotels.

For a first trip, Nusa Dua is the easiest choice: a wave-free beach, the airport 12 km away, and hotels and restaurants all around. Surfers are better off near Canggu and Batu Bolong, while those seeking quiet should head to Amed Bunutan or Lovina.

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