Where to relax in Uluwatu: Bali's best beaches, sunsets and surfing
Uluwatu is a unique area on Bali's south coast, known for its imposing cliffs, ancient temple and spectacular ocean views. People come here for vivid emotions, stunning landscapes and world-class surfing. This place combines a calm atmosphere with an adventurous spirit, attracting lovers of beautiful sunsets, romantic evenings and outdoor activities.
This area is considered to be one of the youngest and most progressive resorts. Spas, restaurants and bars, many gyms and centers for various sports, nature, fabulous sunsets and excellent surfing conditions are the main reasons for its popularity.
District features
Uluwatu is famous for its karst cliffs, which offer magnificent panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Here you will find some of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, hidden in coves and surrounded by cliffs. This area is less lively than Seminyak and Canggu, making it ideal for those seeking peace and privacy while enjoying the natural beauty and ambiance of South Bali.
The beaches in Uluwatu are often difficult to reach — with long staircases and steep trails leading up to them, but the views are well worth the effort. It is important to note that the roads here are narrow and winding, and it can be difficult to get to individual beaches by car.
Who can enjoy a holiday in Uluwatu?
- Surfers and active travelers: This is a true paradise for experienced surfers, with famous surf spots such as Padang Padang, Suluban and others. Strong waves and deep waters attract professionals, but beginners should look for more peaceful places.
- For romantic couples: Karst cliffs, beautiful beaches and mesmerizing sunsets make Uluwatu the perfect place for a romantic getaway. Luxury ocean-view villas, excellent service, cliff-top bar nights and candlelit dinners create a special atmosphere.
- For lovers of nature and adventure: The area attracts those who are looking for new discoveries and vivid experiences. Photographers will definitely appreciate the sunset in these places, as well as fall in love with the unforgettable panorama of the ocean and rocks. Here you can explore the rocky coasts, enjoy the views and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of tranquility.
What to do in Uluwatu?
Surfing
If you're confident on the board, try breaking the waves at Padang Padang and Bingin beaches, or watch the pros at Suluban or Dreamland Beach. These beaches are known for challenging yet spectacular waves.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple
This is an ancient temple built on the edge of a cliff at an altitude of 70 meters, literally floating above the ocean. It is considered one of Bali's nine sacred directional temples, protecting the island from evil spirits. Its impressive location makes it one of the most beautiful and significant places in Bali. Visiting Pura Luhur Uluwatu is not just an excursion, but an immersion in the world of ancient Balinese customs and religious rituals. The traditional Balinese Kechak dance performance is held here every evening at sunset.
Beach clubs and bars
Uluwatu offers stylish beach clubs such as Single Fin and Ulu Cliffhouse, where you can relax on the sun loungers, enjoy a cocktail and enjoy the ocean view.
Savaya
Savaya is one of the brightest and most popular beach clubs on the cliff, offering chic parties and performances by the best DJs from all over the world. The club is known for its luxury atmosphere and spectacular ocean views. Savaya is the perfect place for evening relaxation, dancing and enjoying the sunset to DJ sets.
Padel
One of the most popular sports in Bali is padel, which is rapidly gaining popularity. Padel clubs such as Island Padel and The Ground Bingin are actively developing in Uluwatu. This is a popular activity for those who want to add sports activities to their vacation.
Spa on the rock
The Istana is a luxury hotel on a cliff. The hotel has a chic SPA center: several types of baths, a swimming pool, a font with ice water and a chic view of the ocean. When visiting, guests are asked to hand over their phones so that they can arrange a digital detox for a few hours. Yoga classes and one-day retreats are also available.
Climbing hall Klimb Uluwatu
For lovers of outdoor activities and heights, the bouldering hall offers a variety of trails for all levels of training. Here you can try your hand at rock climbing, as well as take part in master classes and competitions.
Paragliding
There is a large paragliding area aboveTimbis Beach. Especially brave can make an unforgettable flight over the ocean and rocks.
Crossfit workouts
You can keep fit during your vacation by attending crossfit training sessions at Bali Training Center. The center offers intensive training sessions with professional instructors to help you stay active and energetic.
Best beaches
Dreamland is an iconic beach that attracts a lot of people. It is not very suitable for swimming due to strong waves and underwater currents, but nevertheless it is especially popular with surfers, locals and lovers of the most beautiful sunsets.
Bingin is a clean and picturesque beach, accessed via a steep staircase on a cliff. One of the most popular places for experienced surfers. In the evenings, guests can enjoy a barbecue on the beach with sunset and ocean views.
Padang Padang is a legendary Bali beach with white sand and azure water. It was here that the film "Eat, Pray, Love" was shot. It is always crowded, the beach is a magnet for all tourists.
Thomas is the hidden gem of Uluwatu. The beach attracts tourists with its calm and secluded atmosphere. You can go down to the beach by a long staircase, but it's worth it. It has fine sand and crystal clear water, suitable for swimming at low tide and relaxing holidays. Significantly less crowded than other Uluwatu beaches, making it an ideal place to relax away from the hustle and bustle.
Suluban (or Uluwatu Beach) is a "secret" beach hidden in a cliff in the Uluwatu area. The entrance to the beach passes through a cave, and the beach itself is small, with a rocky bottom and underwater currents. At high tide, the beach is flooded, at low tide you can walk along the rocks. There are many bars, restaurants and beach clubs on the way to the beach, including the famous Single Fin, which offers stunning ocean views.
Nyang Nyang is one of the wild beaches on the southern coast of the Bukit Peninsula. It is ideal for low-tide walks and is popular with photographers. Perched on a cliff above the beach is the Airplane Villa — one of the most unusual and expensive hotels in Bali.
Where to meet the sunset in Uluwatu?
Single Fin is an iconic cliff top bar with stunning sunset views. This is one of the most popular places to watch sunsets in Bali, with live performances and DJ sets.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple-visiting the temple in the evening allows you to enjoy the ocean view and the beauty of the Balinese sunset, as well as see the traditional Kechak performance.
Dreamland Beach is a favorite place not only for tourists, but also for the elderly. From the high ground near the beach, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the ocean and waves, where you can watch surfers conquering powerful waves in the rays of the setting sun.
Jaran Hill Cliff is one of the most beautiful and lesser-known sunset viewing spots in Bukit. It offers panoramic views of limestone cliffs, and in the distance you can see the Uluwatu Temple. You can drive up here on a dirt road to the lighthouse, and then walk about 50 meters to the observation deck. This secluded spot will give you an unforgettable sunset without too many crowds.
Karang Boma Cliff-Located next to Nyang Nyang Beach, this cliff overlooks the Indian Ocean and offers stunning sunset views. It is easily accessible and a popular destination for travelers looking for vibrant views and atmospheric sunset photos.
Cafes and restaurants
Where to eat breakfast?
A modern and cozy organic cafe with a relaxed atmosphere near Bingin Beach. This place attracts fans of healthy food: for breakfast, it offers bowls of fruit, smoothies, avocado toast and homemade granola. A great choice for vegetarians and those who adhere to a conscious diet. The portions are generous and the ingredients are exceptionally fresh. It is located in a quiet location, away from the noise and dust of the main streets.
Drifter Surf Shop Cafe & Gallery
It is a cafe with a unique surfer atmosphere that is so popular in Uluwatu. Drifter is not only a cafe, but also a store that sells surf products and stylish beachwear. Breakfast is plentiful and hearty: poached eggs, omelets, as well as dishes with local flavor, such as nasi goreng. The space is decorated with wooden elements and greenery, creating a cozy and light feeling.
Spacious and bright cafe with a cozy atmosphere at Padang Padang Beach. It serves a delicious and plentiful breakfast. The menu includes such classic items as eggs benedict, avocado toast and hearty bowls. The cafe also serves excellent coffee and fresh juices and cocktails that will help to cheer up and start the day with energy. Bukit Cafe is a popular breakfast destination among tourists, so it's best to arrive early to enjoy the quiet atmosphere without the crowds.
An aesthetic and stylish cafe that attracts connoisseurs of quality coffee and interesting breakfasts. This place can truly be called the most popular place for breakfast in Uluwatu, that sometimes you have to wait for an empty seat in a long queue on the street. The menu includes fresh fruit bowls, avocado toast, cottage cheese pancakes and creative snacks. Suka Espresso is a combination of a minimalistic interior and bright tastes. The cafe is suitable for a leisurely morning snack, or for meetings with friends over a cup of aromatic coffee.
Vegan cafe and juice bar with the concept of healthy and natural food. It serves unusual breakfasts: vegetable bowls, smoothies with superfoods, raw food desserts and a wide selection of fresh juices. You can also create your own breakfast from a rich selection of products. The space is bright and stylish, with soft shades and live plants, which creates a calm atmosphere. Alchemy is ideal for those who prefer light and nutritious breakfasts with an emphasis on health. There is also a large co-working space.
Where to have dinner?
A restaurant with a boho-chic atmosphere and spectacular ocean views. Ideal for dining with international dishes, including seafood, steaks and creative appetizers. Every Friday there are parties and performances of live musicians, creating an atmosphere of cozy celebration.
One of the most popular restaurants in Uluwatu, attracting guests with its Mediterranean menu, where simplicity and richness of tastes come to the fore. The interior combines Balinese and Scandinavian elements, creating a stylish and cozy space for lunch with friends or a romantic dinner. Try their pasta, fresh Scandinavian salmon or juicy burgers — each dish here will be a bright taste discovery. Ours also offers morning discounts on breakfast starting from 85k and a half-price happy hour with cocktails from 16: 00 to 18: 00, which adds even more reasons to come back.
A cozy Italian restaurant that has become a favorite place for those who appreciate authentic Italian cuisine. The interior is reminiscent of a traditional Italian trattoria with live plants and wooden furniture. It serves homemade pasta, Neapolitan pizza, ravioli with truffle sauce and other Italian dishes prepared with love and attention to detail. La Baracca is a great place for a romantic dinner or meeting with friends, where you can enjoy the warm atmosphere and excellent taste of the dishes.
An exclusive restaurant located in a natural cave that will give your dinner an underground mystery and wow effect. It offers seven-and ten-course sets with optional wine or cocktail accompaniment, making this gastronomic experience an unforgettable experience. The evening is accompanied by a light show as guests enjoy dishes such as seared oysters, lobster bisque, foie gras and 48-hour stewed ribs. The restaurant also offers vegetarian options. The Cave is the perfect place for a special occasion.
Open-air restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and creative design. The menu offers fusion dishes that will surprise you with interesting combinations of flavors and aromas, including Asian and Western dishes. In the evening, lanterns are lit and live music is played, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere.
All Comments (0)