5 of Bali's Best Beaches for Island Vibes

If you’ve heard anything about Bali and its surrounding islands, chances are you’ve heard of its stunning beaches. With some of the most iconic beach bars in the world in Seminyak, hidden gems in the beautiful village of Lovina, and the best waves for surfing in Canggu, Bali is an ocean lover's dream! 

With no shortage of beaches to choose from, we’ve put together the ultimate travel guide to Bali’s top 5 must-see beaches!

1. Kelingking Beach

Best Bali beach for: Natural Beauty 🏖️

No trip to Bali is complete without a visit to the iconic Kelingking Beach. Just a 45-minute speed boat trip away from the mainland, this beach is world-famous for its dramatic T-Rex head-shaped cliff, the ideal location for those insta-worthy photos. This breathtaking view can be found on the southeastern part of Nusa Penida. Reaching the beach itself can be tricky, with a steep climb down a lot of steps, however, you will be rewarded with soft sand and an incredible view not many people get to see of the beach and its cliffs. If this sounds like paradise to you, take a look at our Bali Intro Plus group trip! 

Where is it? Nusa Penida

2. Batu Bolong Beach

Best Bali beach for: Surfing and Boogie Boarding 🏄

Whether you’re a beginner at surfing or a pro, Batu Bolong Beach is the ideal place to catch some waves! The best time to visit this beach for surfing is early morning to beat the crowds. This classic Bali beach offers plenty of places to rent boards or get a lesson if you are new to the sport. After your day in the ocean, stop off at one of the local restaurants for a bite to eat. 

Where is it? Canggu, Bali

3. Gili T Beaches

Best Bali beach for: Partying 🍹

Although technically not on the island of Bali, this destination is a short 1-hour boat trip across the stunning ocean into Indonesia’s party central island for backpackers! With beach clubs as far as the eye can see, Gili T is a must-visit for those looking to dance the night (and day, if you’re up for it!) away. Plus, as a bonus, spend your days in the ocean with endless water sports activities such as surfing, bodyboarding, paddleboarding, snorkelling, boat trips and more! Check out our Bali & Komodo Adventure if this sounds like a bit of you! 

Where is it? Gili Trawangan (Island east of Bali)

4. Lovina Beach

Best Bali beach for: Wildlife 🐬

This hidden gem beach is tucked away in the sleepy northern village of Lovina. If you want to see dolphins in their natural habitat, this is the beach for you! Hop on a traditional jukung boat with a local tour guide at sunrise, and peacefully sail off into the ocean in search of dolphins. If you’re lucky, you’ll see a large pod of beautiful dolphins playing in the crystal clear water. After this unique experience, head back to the island for a relaxing dinner under the stars, on the white sandy beaches. If you’re after a trip that visits this destination, check out our Bali Intro group tour.

Where is it: Anturan, Bali

5. Seminyak Beach

Best Bali beach for: Relaxing with friends 👫

There isn’t much that beats relaxing on the beach with a cocktail in hand, surrounded by your friends, with the sounds of a peaceful ocean in the background. Seminyak Beach can offer you all of this and more with its alluring beach bars and restaurants, one of the best being La Plancha. Chill out on one of the colourful beanbags under the bar's unique umbrellas, while watching the sunset. With an array of Spanish-inspired food, mouth-watering cocktails, and just a few steps from the ocean waves, it’s easy to see why this is a backpacker's favourite.

Where is it? Kuta, Bali

 

With this list only ticking off a few of Bali’s top beaches, there is still a plethora of beautiful beaches on the island and its surrounding areas. From Bingin and Uluwatu in the South of Bali to Gili Air just off of Gili T, you could spend a lifetime exploring them all! If Bali’s beaches are calling you, then check out some of our top trips to Bali:

Bali Intro (9 or 12 days)
Bali Intro Plus (12 or 15 days)
Bali & Komodo Adventure (18 days)

All Bali and Indonesia Trips