The best beaches in South Bali – where to swim, surf and soak up the Balinese vibes

Aug 21, 2022 | Bali, Beaches, Indonesia

Beach life doesn’t get much better than in Bali…

This tropical island is blessed with fabulous beaches, many of which can be found in the south of the island along with lavish resorts, exhilarating surf breaks, sensational sunsets and hedonistic beach clubs. But which to choose?

Here are some of our favourite Balinese beaches and where to stay…

Jimbaran

This fishing village and coastal resort on the south-west coast boasts a 4km-long sandy beach with calm waters, backed by tropical forest. It is renowned for spectacular sunsets and delicious seafood restaurants with tables on the sand serving barbecued fish and seafood. Jimbaran is a centre for Bali’s fisherman and is home to the island’s biggest fish market. The curved bay is protected by a coral reef making the water more calm and ideal for swimming.

Where to stay in Jimbaran

Perched atop a hill looking over the Indian Ocean and captivating Jimbaran Bay sunsets is Raffles Bali. With only 32 ocean-facing pool villas, incessant views of the ocean and its own secluded beach, Raffles Bali offers the ideal intimate oasis.

Sanur

Sanur is often described as a sleepier resort with a laidback vibe that still retains its culture – the opposite to Kuta! The beaches are connected by a paved promenade lined with plenty of shopping and dining options. The waves are smaller here than on many other beaches due to the protection from the offshore reef, making it ideal for families. Sunrises are quite spectacular in Sanur. On a clear morning, you can even see the outlines of Mount Agung and Nusa Penida Island on the far horizon.

Where to stay in Sanur

Pavilions Bali is tucked away amid a magnificent tropical garden just a short walk from all that the charming seaside town of Sanur has to offer. All of the villas come with deep soaking tubs and rain showers and most have a private swimming pool.

Uluwatu

Located on the southern tip on the western cliffs, Uluwatu is home to an incredible cliffside temple, upscale restaurants and some of the best surf breaks in Bali. Dramatic limestone cliffs line the coast and drop down to stunning sandy and rocky beaches below, including Suluban Beach, Padang Padang Beach and Thomas Beach. While Uluwatu’s big waves draw surfers from around the world, they also have great swimming beaches and some of the best sunsets you’ll ever see.

Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is an all–inclusive tourism complex with luxury international 5 star resorts and family-friendly restaurants that back onto the white sandy beach. The whole area was reclaimed from the sea and is beautifully manicured with palm trees and plants. Avid golfers will love the 18-hole golf course. The beaches are clean and uncrowded due to the exclusivity of the area.

Seminyak

Here you will find many luxury hotels, villas and spas, as well as high-end shops, stylish eateries, sleek bars and clubs. In fact, some of Bali’s best dining venues and world-renowned nightlife spots can be found in Seminyak. There is a large selection of lavish beachfront hotels and villas as well as trendy beach clubs. Waves can be a bit rough with strong undercurrents – however this makes it a great spot for advanced surfers.

Canggu

Located just north of Seminyak on the west coast, this wide stretch of volcanic black sand beach is rapidly becoming a favourite with advanced surfers due to its dramatic waves. If you’re not into surfing, take a tranquil horse ride along the sand. Canggu’s countryside of verdant rice fields adds to its appeal, with plenty of villas and hotels making good use of the view, as well as its close proximity to the beach. Not far away is Tanah Lot Temple perched on a rocky outcrop surrounded by the crashing waves.

Kuta

This 2.5 km stretch is probably the liveliest beach on the island with plenty of surfing, fun and parties. As well as sunbathers and surfers, you will also find many beach hawkers and masseurs wandering along the shoreline. Although surfing and swimming are the most popular activities at Kuta Beach, you can also enjoy anything from beach soccer or volleyball in the mornings or at sunset. Non-surfers can learn the art of wave riding with the number of surf schools available along the beach. There is a huge array of places to stay for all budgets as well as bars, restaurants and shops.