3 Best Beaches in Bali
Bali has hundreds of beaches to offer. The fact is that there is too many to fit in the average length visit. That is why we've narrowed it down to these 3 top beaches that Bali has to offer.
We were on a mission to find the best beaches during our stay in Bali. We decided to base ourselves for the search in Seminyak, also known as the place 'where beach days never end'. It was also an excellent hub that put us in the best position to get to as many of top 10 beaches in Bali as we could. Not to mention it offered an array of luxurious hotels and villas.
Check out the villa we opted for here. It was amazing! Also, for some affordable luxury accommodations have a look at some of the amazing airbnb locations Bali has to offer! Get a free $25 airbnb credit here, our gift to you!
Anyways, back on topic... beaches.
Whether you're looking for swimming, surfing, or beach resorts these beaches will definitely not disappoint!
Filmed with a GoPro Hero 5 Black and a Karma Grip. Check out the rest of the gear we use here.
1. Bias Tugel Beach
We had seen pictures of this beach online and were anxious to find it. Bias Tugel is a small, lesser known beach known to some as 'White Sands Beach', it's also referred to by many as a hidden gem. It is about an hour's drive from Seminyak/Kuta.
Our driver dropped us off at the top of the cliff and we walked down the cliff side to this beautiful hidden beach. You might want to bring shoes that are easy to walk in but we managed just fine in our flip flops.
There is a small bar/cafe and a few people selling sarongs on the beach. We loved this beach because it was relaxed, and much quieter than some of the larger beaches in Bali. Bias Tugel doesn't get the sunset but it's still a beautiful spot for an evening drink and lounging on it's fine white sand.
2. Balangan Beach
This one is a bit more difficult to get to, so a car is essential. But it'll be worth the extra cash for the sunset alone! In fact, we went here specifically for the sunset which was the best we'd seen in Bali. This was no small feat as we saw a lot of amazing sunsets. We definitely recommend bringing your camera and tripod to get an epic time-lapse of the sun setting here. You definitely won't regret having to carry the bit of extra weight. We used our GoPro and the Joby GorillaPod Focus Tripod which were great because they weighed next to nothing anyways! We also recommend bringing an ND (neutral-density) filter for your camera if you're going early afternoon. When the sun is high it reflects off the white sand and does a number on your photos' exposure! More importantly, don't forget some water (we keep ours cold in these) and sun screen! The Bali sun is no joke.
Shot with a GoPro Hero 5 Black
Shot with a GoPro Hero 5 Black
The sand here is white and soft, and the water is clear and refreshing. The water can be a bit choppier at times, but is nonetheless still great to take a dip in! This beach is also amazing for those who enjoy a good surf.
Shot with a GoPro Hero 5 Black
When the tide went out the ocean floor was exposed which made for the perfect shot. We weren't the only ones who knew about this, and there were many couples who showed up at around sunset to take wedding and engagement pictures in front of the stunning view.
The beach offers a nice little cafe restaurant at one end which serves up some much needed Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried-rice) after a full day in the sun. There are some stalls along the beach that sell things like snorkelling equipment and wet shoes, both of which are useful for this location. I also had a massage on the beach which wasn't the best I've ever had, but for £6 and the sound of the crashing waves behind me I wasn't complaining! It was still a memorable experience to say the least.
3. Nusa Dua Beach
Nusa Dua is part of an exclusive part of Bali which is home to many large and luxurious resorts. The beach is beautiful but is best experienced if you are staying at a resort located along the beach. The resorts have a monopoly over space on the sand and deck chairs/umbrellas. Unfortunately, you are not allowed to use the resorts chairs even if you are willing to pay. 90% of the umbrellas on the beach are reserved only for hotel guests so be aware of that when visiting here. Nonetheless the beach is still beautiful and can be enjoyed even if you're not staying at a resort. There are locals at one end of the beach that offer hire of comfortable beach chairs under the shade of the trees. These can be moved into the sun as well for all you sun worshippers, so no need to worry!
Once you're settled in with your beach lounger and fresh coconut all purchased for under £7 its time to enjoy! Nusa Dua beach is extremely beautiful with it's soft white sand and calm turquoise water, which is perfect for swimming. It's a great beach to visit as long as you are aware of the large resorts who have staked their claim over this stretch of sand.
Tips before you go:
Shot with a GoPro Hero 5 Black
If you can, hire a car! They are super affordable and they save you something more valuable than money... TIME! If you're in a group it cuts the price down significantly as well. Not to mention you get to sit back and relax in a luxurious air-airconditioned car while on your way to some of the best beaches in Bali!
Opt for an umbrella and sun lounger if they're being offered at the beaches. Again, these are really affordable and usually convert to something minimal in most currencies. It'll just make your experience that much better. If you're strapped for cash you can always bring out your bargaining skills and get the vendor down to a price that fits your budget.
Bring your camera! Just be careful with it and bring a bag to safely store it in while you're enjoying the water. You'll be glad you did. These beaches are very scenic and will make for some great Instagram posts! Check out ours here. Also check out what camera we used here.
If you're visiting Bali you also must check out Ubud! Be sure to read about the Top 6 Things to do in Ubud and the Best Hotel in Ubud.
