Best Bali Beaches – A Paradise for Sun, Surf and Sand!

Bali is a tropical island paradise with beaches all along the coastline, from north to south. What’s surprising is how different the beaches are. You’ll find varying terrains and wonders around the island, from surf havens with rolling waves to calm, clear waters perfect for wading and soft white sands to black sands from volcanic rocks. 

Not sure which beach to choose for a relaxing day trip or fun in the sun? We’ve compiled a full list of Bali’s top spots – from well-known tourist locales to some of our favourite hidden gems. Grab your sunscreen, swimsuit, and a nice big towel, and let’s explore Bali’s best beaches.

best bali beaches a paradise for sun surf and sand

Berawa Beach

We have to start our list with our favourite beach on the island – Berawa Beach. Just on the doorstep of FINNS Beach Club, we have one of the best beaches in Bali, where you’ll find all sorts of people enjoying a picture-perfect beach day. There are waves for surfers of all abilities and levels, joggers and beach workout buddies, dog walkers, kite surfers, sunbathers and more. All along the beach, local vendors will offer beach chairs, umbrellas, and ice-cold soft drinks, beers, and coconuts. Grilled sweet corn and Bintangs are a popular treat for sunset goers. This is one of the best spots on the island for uninterrupted sunset views all year round. When in Bali, visiting Berawa Beach is a must, whether for an early morning walk, a relaxing beach day, or to catch the stunning sunset. And stop into FINNS to enjoy a cocktail or a meal with oceanside views. 

Seminyak Beach

Seminyak Beach is located just north of Kuta and is one of the most popular beaches in Bali. It’s a long, pristine stretch of sand with luxurious resorts and beach clubs. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent for the day from the local vendors to provide shade from the sun. People come here for stunning sunsets and gorgeous views. Plus, there are excellent cafes and bars nearby. If you’re hungry, try local dishes from stalls along the beach or visit nearby restaurants with popular international cuisines like Italian, Mexican, or Japanese. The Seminyak nightlife is alive, with bars and clubs playing live music until late.

Padang Padang Beach

Padang Padang beach is also called Pantai Labuan Sait, and it’s located in Uluwatu, tucked into a hidden cove on the south peninsula’s western coast. Visitors to this naturally beautiful spot are captivated by the stunningly clear and crystal blue ocean and the dramatic cliffs surrounding the area. Padang Padang is one of the more popular beaches in Uluwatu, a favourite spot among locals and tourists alike. Visitors can rent umbrellas and sun loungers for the day, and purchase coconuts, small snacks and refreshments from the local vendors. You can also lounge on sarongs or towels on the white sands and enjoy snorkelling or swimming in the clear waters. From the white sandy beach to the thrilling surf, Padang Padang is one of Bali’s best beaches to explore.

Balian Beach

Balian Beach is the place for you if you want peace, serenity and nearly untouched natural beauty. Balian Beach is located on the western side of Bali, approximately a 30-minute drive north of Canggu. Surfers make the trek here for the long, consistent waves far from the crowds of Canggu and Berawa. The sands of Balian are created from volcanic ash, so the setting is a vista of black sand, rolling waves, and a lush green backdrop of fields and palm trees. The sunsets are spectacular here. Pull up a stool at the local warungs away from the crowds and big resorts and enjoy the sunset with a Bintang beer and a satay or two. Balian is unique and unlike any other beach on Bali’s west coast.

Nusa Dua Beach

Nusa Dua Beach is famous due to its proximity to Bali’s most renowned, large-scale resorts. Situated on Bali’s southern coastline, it is one of the top beaches in Bali. Tourists and locals love this white-sand beach; the waters are calm and crystal-clear. It’s a very popular beach for families. Swimming, snorkelling and other water activities can be enjoyed here. Nusa Dua Beach’s calm waves provide great leisurely swimming that is perfect for beginners and kids. Also, there are water sports activities like snorkelling, jet skiing, and parasailing. You can rent stand-up paddleboards or kayaks. All around Nusa Dua, you’ll find a park-like ambience with manicured gardens and palm-tree-lined streets. It’s no wonder why Bali’s most luxurious resorts and hotels are located in Nusa Dua, close to one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.

Green Bowl Beach

Green Bowl Beach is a stunning cove located in the southwest of Bali, and it’s one of the most amazing beach spots. People know it for its incredible surroundings and natural beauty. The waters are crystal clear, and the sand is white, and since it’s a bit of a hidden spot, you won’t find many crowds here. Due to the terrain, you won’t find any restaurants or shops, but there may be a few stalls or local vendors along the beach. You can also see a few naughty monkeys along the cliff trails to the beach. Bring a towel or sarong for sunbathing, and enjoy swimming or snorkelling in the clear waters. A day at Green Bowl Beach is well-spent, with the sun and relaxation.

Echo Beach

Echo Beach is a top pick for Bali beachgoers, situated in Canggu. Its soft sands and awesome surf make it one of Bali’s most popular beaches, renowned for its beach restaurants and bars – perfect for chilling out and taking in the views. The Echo Beach swell gives some of Bali’s most regular waves. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, Echo Beach has waves for all skill levels. Echo Beach is always lively with many local surfers every day and visitors from around the globe. At any time of the day, you’ll find surfers, dog walkers, and sunbathers. While for sunset, you may find groups for volleyball and maybe a game or two of beach football. Plus, locals often leave their mark by making fire pits in the sand for barbecues or campfires. The location on the west coast and the lively social atmosphere make Echo Beach one of Bali’s most popular sunset spots. All-in-all, Echo Beach is one of Bali’s best beaches year-round!

Kuta Beach

Kuta Beach is one of Bali’s most famous beaches since it’s right on the west coast, in the island’s most renowned tourist locations. Just north of Jimbaran Bay, Kuta beach has white sands, calm waves and beautiful sunsets, and a great atmosphere with many restaurants and shops. Large resorts and budget-friendly hotels are within walking distance to the beach, along with various restaurants and warungs. Shopping is great, too – markets, boutiques, surf shops, and department stores are all close to each other. Plus, nightlife ranges from laidback bars with live entertainment to clubs playing electronic dance music until sunrise – all within walking distance of Kuta Beach. So if you want a chill afternoon or day, or night full of action and fun, Kuta Beach has it all.

Bingin Beach

Bingin Beach is a hidden gem located on the Bukit Peninsula in Bali. Its crystal-clear waters and golden sand make it a popular destination for surfers and beachgoers looking for a more secluded spot. This charming beach is nestled between towering cliffs, with charming guesthouses and surf hotels all along the cliffside. Bingin Beach is also a great place to relax and unwind, with plenty of sun loungers and beach umbrellas available to rent. The beach is also home to a small selection of cafes and restaurants and is famous for its fresh grilled seafood. Getting here requires walking down many stairs that wind through the cliffside. So watch your step and be mindful of the terrain as you walk.

For this reason, there are few crowds in Bingin Beach. But those who venture down the cliffs would say it’s worth the effort. Whether you’re a surfer or just looking to escape the crowds, Bingin Beach is a must-visit destination in Bali.

bingin beach bali best beach recommended by finns

Amed Beach

Amed Beach is located on the eastern coast of Bali, and visitors often overlook it in favour of more popular beaches in the south. However, Amed Beach is a hidden gem that’s worth discovering. This black sand beach offers a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere, crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and diving. Amed is one of the island’s most popular spots for underwater adventures; visitors can spot various marine life, including colourful coral, tropical fish, and even sea turtles. Amed Beach is also known for its stunning sunrise views and the backdrop of the majestic Mt. Agung. While in the eastern part of Bali, we recommend touring around to see the incredible beauty and scenery of the surrounding hills and rice paddies. This side of the island is noticeably more remote, away from the bustling tourist hot spots. In the evenings, gazing at the fishing boats on the water, enjoy a nice local meal at one of the local warungs, or simply unwind with a cold drink and watch the stars come out.

Sanur Beach

Sanur Beach is a popular destination on Bali’s south-eastern coastline, which is great for families due to its nice, slow, relaxed pace compared to Seminyak or Canggu. The beach has a crescent-shaped bay and stunning blue waters, with a boardwalk promenade that winds around the waters. With the golden and white sands and areas for sunbathing, snorkelling, and swimming in the nice calm waves, Sanur Beach is a paradise for families and beachgoers. Just off the beach, you’ll find a variety of resorts and hotels, restaurants and cafes, and shops for souvenirs and anything else you may need. This beach is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and gorgeous sunrises. Sanur Beach is perfect for a day in paradise!

Kelingking Beach

Kelingking Beach is a remote and unspoiled destination, on the island of Nusa Penida, just off the coast of Bali. This secluded beach is famous for its stunning natural beauty, with turquoise waters and towering cliffs creating a dramatic and breathtaking landscape. Access to the beach requires a steep and challenging hike down a cliff, but the effort is well worth it. Once on the beach, visitors can relax on the soft white sand or swim in crystal-clear waters. Kelingking Beach is also a popular spot for snorkelling and diving, with various marine life to discover. Visitors can explore the nearby coral reefs and swim alongside colourful fish and sea turtles. In addition to the beach activities, visitors can explore the surrounding area, with plenty of hiking trails and scenic spots to discover. Kelingking Beach is also close to several other popular destinations on Nusa Penida, such as Angel’s Billabong and Atuh Beach. Visitors can rent scooters or hire a local guide to explore the island’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful and secluded spot, Kelingking Beach is an unforgettable destination that should not be missed.

Conclusion

Bali island boasts some of the world’s best beaches, and there are many ways to appreciate the splendours – sunbathing on dreamy beaches or dipping toes in crystal waters. From around the world, the island attracts surfers looking for the best waves and divers wanting to explore the seas of the archipelago. Come visit us at FINNS Beach Club, but save the day in your Bali holiday to relax and soak in the sun at one of Bali’s many beautiful beaches.

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