20 BEST THINGS TO DO IN ULUWATU, BALI – The Complete Guide
With high and impressive limestone cliffs towering above the Indian Ocean, luxury resorts and cliff top beach clubs overlooking the ocean, Uluwatu is a different vibe than the rest of Bali. In the Bukit Peninsula you can find some of the best beaches in Bali with soft golden sand, the best waves for surfing and amazing viewpoints to watch the sunset. Read in our complete about all the best things to do in Uluwatu!
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Best Uluwatu tours
If you want to visit some of the main spots in Uluwatu during an organised day tour then here are the best Uluwatu tours. All of these tours include air conditioned transport with hotel pick up and drop off, certified guides and sometimes also lunch and the entrance fees. You can reserve now and pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.
- Uluwatu beaches, GWK Cultural Park and Uluwatu Temple Tour. A combination of the best culture and nature activities that Uluwatu has to offer. Explore the most southern region in Bali with a private driver and English speaking guide to learn more about the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park and soak in the sunshine at Uluwatu’s best beaches. You will finish the day with a spectacular sunset at Uluwatu Temple and watch the famous Kecak Balinese Cultural Dance.
- Uluwatu private beach club hopping tour. This private tour will take you to the best Uluwatu beach clubs to enjoy a day of relaxing at some of the best infinity pools and beaches that Uluwatu has to offer.
- Uluwatu white sand beaches tour and sunset at Uluwatu temple. Discover some of the best beaches in Uluwatu during this private tour. While visiting the beautiful white sand beaches you can swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters or rent a jet ski, fly-board or banana boat at your own expense. After the beach fun you will visit Padang Padang beach before watching the sunset at Uluwatu Temple and see the traditional Kecak dance show overlooking the sea.
General travel must haves for Bali
Before we dive into the best things to do in Uluwatu, let’s check a few things to make your travels in Bali easy and safe.
Have you thought about how to get around in Bali? A scooter is the easiest way if you’re comfortable driving one yourself.
- Book your scooter or motorbike here to get around in Bali. This is the most convenient way to arrange your rental motorbike, especially because it gets delivered and picked up for free to your accommodation within Ubud, Canggu, Kuta, Nusa Dua, Denpasar, Seminyak, Uluwatu, Kerobokan, Jimbaran, Sanur. Requirements: 20 years old; international car (B) drivers license for scooters (or moto (A) license for motorcycles); copies of passport and drivers license.
Do you prefer a private driver for the day and the freedom to create your own itinerary?
Did you already book your accommodation?
Are you insured during your travels?
- Buy your travel insurance here. Safetywing not only includes coverage for travel delay, lost checked luggage, emergency response, natural disasters and personal liability. But also covers all your medical expenses for hospitalisation.
Best time to visit Uluwatu
The best time to visit Uluwatu is between April and October. But expect the nature to be a little bit more dry at the end of the dry season. On the other hand, the nature is greener right after the rainy season (March, April, May). In November rainy season starts in Bali until March. But in Uluwatu it doesn’t rain that much as in the rest of Bali.
How to get around in Uluwatu
The best way to get around in Uluwatu is with a rental scooter. It’s a bit hilly in the Uluwatu area, also known as Bukit Peninsula, so be prepared. The roads are well maintained and it’s not as busy traffic as in the rest of Bali. Book your scooter or motorbike here in advance so you don’t have to look for it after arrival. With this service your scooter will be brought to your accommodation and picked up after the rental period is over. Super easy!
Of course you can also book a private driver for a day trip, or book a tour so you can visit the Uluwatu highlights in one day.
Where to stay in Uluwatu
If you plan on staying in Uluwatu then there are plenty of luxury cliff top resorts and private villa’s to choose from. But of course also the affordable guesthouses and bungalows can be found in Uluwatu, it totally depends on your budget. We have stayed at some of the most amazing cliff top resorts and villa’s in Uluwatu, so hereby our recommendations.
→ Check out this great tool to compare prices on hotels around the world and book your favorite hotel!
Super Luxury resorts in Uluwatu
Book here your stay at Alila Villa’s Uluwatu
Alila Villas Uluwatu is some of the most luxurious resorts in Uluwatu, and even in whole Bali. The modern Balinese-style villas boast an elevated outdoor pavilion with private swimming pool. The 46 meters wide outdoor swimming pool, two restaurants, Spa and gym will make your stay at Alila Uluwatu complete.
Book here your stay at Bulgari resort Uluwatu
Bulgari Resort features spacious luxurious villas in traditional Balinese design with a private sundeck and plunge pool. It’s 1 km long beach is accessible only through the resort’s inclined elevator. The resort also offers an infinity swimming pool overlooking the ocean, a Spa and gym.
Book here your stay at Six Senses Uluwatu
Six Senses Uluwatu is a fantastic 5 star resort perched on the cliff. With incredible views over the Indian Ocean, private villa’s with swimming pool, a gym, Spa, 2 restaurants, sunset views and a huge main swimming pool there is almost no reason to leave the resort.
Watch a magical sunset at Karang Boma cliff
The Karang Boma cliff, also known as Uluwatu cliff, is a jaw-dropping 70-meter high limestone cliff which goes straight down into the ocean. With an incredible 180 degrees view on the Indian ocean, this is one of the most impressive Bali viewpoints and some of the best places in Bali to watch the sunset. The Karang Boma cliff is located near the Uluwatu Temple so you can easily combine these two with a visit. There is enough space to just sit down and enjoy this wonderful view. Take a towel with you to sit on, eventually some snacks and drinks, and you will have one of the most memorable afternoons in Bali!
Eat fresh BBQ fish at Bingin beach
Bingin beach is one of the beautiful Uluwatu beaches you have to visit. The vibes here are something different with the cute alleys and winding stairs along the cliff top houses leading you down to the beach. At sunset, the beach changes into a basic on-the-beach BBQ dining area. With the sand between your toes, the sound of the crashing waves and the warm tones of sunset above you, you can enjoy a freshly BBQ’d fish. You can choose the type of fish you want, and get it brought to you when it’s finished. This was one of our best evenings in Uluwatu! Bingin beach is one of the few beaches in Bali where you can dine literally on the beach. As far as we known only Jimbaran Bay and Bingin beach have the options with restaurants on the beach.
Read more about Bingin beach in this complete guide.
Bingin beach is one of the few beaches in Bali where you can dine literally on the beach!
Explore the cave at Gunung Payung beach
Gunung Payung beach is a real gem near Nusa Dua. This beautiful beach takes a bit more effort to get to and is therefore probably not a very busy beach. However it has a beautiful stretch of soft sand, lovely turquoise water to swim in. And.. even a very cool cave to explore! Once you arrive at the entrance of Gunung Payung beach, you will have to pay the 8000 IDR entrance fee. Then you can park your vehicle where you will find the warungs, and from there the little hike down to the beach starts. You will have to conquer 500 steps down until your feet hit the soft sand. Definitely worth it for the ones looking for an off the beaten path beach in Nusa Dua. You will maybe see some surfers in action, or locals trying to catch dinner (fish).
Uluwatu surfing
Uluwatu is one of the best places in Bali to surf with its world-class surf breaks. Surfers from all over the world come here to enjoy the famous left break and ride the barrels. But also for beginners are suitable areas to surf in Uluwatu. Padang Padang is one of the most popular surf spots in Uluwatu, but also Bingin beach and Dreamland Beach are great spots to surf. At every beach in Uluwatu you will find surf shacks where you can rent a surf board. But there are also many surf camps offering surf classes and organised retreats.
Visit GWK Cultural Park
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is a huge recreational park used for big music events, exhibitions and conferences. You can see the location of the park from far away because of its impressive 121-meters tall bronze statue of Lord Vishnu which was revealed inside the park in September 2018. It took twenty-eight years (due to the global economic crisis) and around $100 million to build the statue!
Explore Tegal Wangi beach and cave
Tegal Wangi beach has some beautiful hidden gems. The beach itself is beautiful with lots of rocks on it, therefore it’s not the perfect beach to chill on. But the natural jaccuzi (rock pools) and beach cave are perfect photo opportunities with sunset! Many people, either locals and tourists, come to Tegal Wangi beach and the cliff to watch the sunset. With low tide you can go down to the beach to see the cave and natural rock pools. Before going to Tegal Wangi beach, check the tide here.
Read everything about Tegal Wangi beach in this complete guide.
The beautiful cave at Tegal Wangi beach with sunset
Pantai Tegal Wangi seen from the cliff
Chill at one of the Uluwatu beach clubs
Uluwatu has many beach clubs in all sorts of categories. The very luxury, high class lounge clubs, but also the laid back backpackers beach clubs. Both have amazing vibes, but of course be prepared to pay more at the luxury clubs for a day bed. It’s absolutely worth it to chill a day at one of these beach clubs! Below some of the Uluwatu beach clubs:
- El Kabron
- Savaya Beach Club
- Ulu Cliffhouse
- Sundays Beach Club
- Single Fin Club
Book here your private beach club hopping day tour in Uluwatu
Watch the Kecak Fire Dance
The traditional Kecak Fire Dance is a form of Balinese Hindu dance and music drama that was developed in the 1930’s in Bali. It involves dancing, chanting, elaborate costumes and loads of excitement. It’s a cultural experience in Uluwatu you can’t miss! The entrance fee for the Kecak Fire Dance show is 150,000 IDR per person and takes place during sunset.
Enjoy the quiet Thomas beach
For the peace seekers, Thomas beach is a great option to go to. This pretty 200 meter long beach with fine soft white sand, turquoise crystal-clear water and some beach shacks is a beautiful, hidden beach. If it’s low tide you can explore the rocky outcrops, secluded beaches and small caves along the coastline. But with high tide you can go surfing at Thomas beach. The beach shacks rent out sun beds, umbrella’s, food, drinks and surfboards, so you’re basically set for the day!
Read everything about Thomas beach in this complete guide.
Visit the Uluwatu temple
Bali has many beautiful temples to visit, but one of the most scenic temples must be the Uluwatu temple, also known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu. Built on the 70 metre high cliff and facing west, it’s also a beautiful spot to watch the sunset. Another attraction to visit here is the Kecak Fire Dance. More about that in another section of this blog post. The entrance to the Uluwatu temple is 50,000 IDR per person.
Relax at Padang Padang beach
Padang Padang beach gained a lot of attention because of its appearance in the Eat Pray Love movie. But Padang Padang also has some of the best waves to surf in Uluwatu. Besides these reasons, Padang Padang is just a beautiful, pure and almost adventurous beach with the unique rock caves, tidal swimming pools and secluded beaches. Perfect for a day of relaxing!
Every Saturday there is a party held at Padang Padang beach which is really worth to visit if you like beach parties!
Read everything about Padang Padang beach in this complete guide.
Chill and watch the sunset at Sunset Point
Uluwatu has an abundance in great sunset spots. If you’re looking for a chill place to hang out with friends or as a couple then Sunset Point Uluwatu is a great sunset bar. With bean bags and a menu with great options you can enjoy yourself in the afternoon until sunset at this place. At some evenings they also have live music, mostly reggae, which delivers the real island vibes. Absolutely a very chill place to see the sun going down without the crowds which you mostly get at Single Fin’s.
Go Paragliding
Uluwatu is a very popular spot in Bali to go paragliding. There are a few companies scattered around in Uluwatu offering paragliding tours along Bali’s south coast. The tandem flight consists of a short instructional briefing followed by an approximately 20 minute flight. Imagine the Bali sunset in front of you, the sea below you and the shoreline besides you. An unforgettable experience and definitely a unique activity to see Bali from above with your own eyes! Don’t forget to bring your sport shoes for this activity as flip-flops are strictly not allowed.
You can book a paragliding tour at Nyang Nyang beach and Pandawa beach.
Watch the sunset at Balangan viewpoint
Balangan beach Bali is a 200 meters stretch of soft white sand with panoramic views on the Indian Ocean. Located on the west coast of Bali, Balangan beach is every evening blessed with a spectacular sunset that creates a romantic vibe. Pantai Balangan is also very popular amongst surfers, in particular experienced up to professional surfers. The cliffs surrounding Balangan beach are the perfect viewpoint on the ocean, and are especially popular by (Chinese wedding) photographers with sunset.
Read everything about Balangan beach in this complete guide
Explore the shipwreck at Nunggalan beach
Nunggalan beach Bali is a beautiful hidden white sand beach along green cliffs in Uluwatu. It takes some effort to get to the beach by walking down a rocky path. So you won’t see many tourists here which makes a visit to Nunggalan beach very serene. So if you love a little adventure and work out to get to some of the beaches in Uluwatu, then definitely check out Nunggalan beach.
Because the beach is so secluded, you can expect it to be very quiet. There are no facilities around except a little beach shack that sells coconuts and where you can rent an umbrella. So Nunggalan beach is without a doubt some of the best beaches for peace seekers and off the beaten path adventurers. It also has a ship wreck on the beach and therefore Nunggalan beach is also known as Shipwreck beach in Uluwatu.
Read in our complete guide everything about Nunggalan beach.
Party and watch the sunset at Single Fin
Single Fin in Uluwatu is the most popular bar for travelers, surfers and backpackers to go to. It’s located at the top of Uluwatu Beach. You will pass Single Fin when you’ve parked your moped and you make your way down to Suluban beach. On Sundays, Single Fin turns into a real party spot. These Sunday Sunset Sessions have free entry and host live bands and Dj’s producing deep-house and other music genres. As the night progresses, the music gets louder and the party vibes gets wilder!
Explore Suluban beach
Suluban beach is a spectacular beach in Uluwatu Bali. Also known as Blue Point beach and Pantai Suluban Bali, this place is super interesting with all the caves and coves, beach bars and amazing surf conditions. Suluban Beach is famous for its left-hand point break that is very popular among skilled surfers. But there are many more fantastic things to do as it’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Bali.
Read everything about Suluban beach in this complete guide.
Eat at the best Uluwatu restaurants
Although Uluwatu is not the foodie heaven as Canggu is with all the amazing Canggu restaurants, you can still find some really good restaurants in Uluwatu.
Some of our favourite Uluwatu restaurants:
- The Loft
- Drifter surf shop & Cafe
- La Baracca (Italian)
- The Cashew Tree
- Gooseberry Cafe and BoutiqueÂ
Explore Green Bowl beach
Green Bowl Beach in Uluwatu sits at the base of lush verdant cliffs and is one of Bali’s most secluded, and beautiful beaches! It’s also one of our favorite beaches to go to for a relaxing and secluded day at the beach. It takes some effort to get down to the beach. But once you’re there, you will realize it was worth it!
The cave offers shade and shelter for beachgoers, and the unending views on the Indian Ocean in combination with the soft white sand are only a few ingredients why this hidden beach is so perfect!
Watch sunset at Jaran Hill
Jaran Hill is a great viewpoint along the rugged cliffs of Uluwatu to watch the sunset from. It is a little less popular than for example Sunset Point or Karang Boma cliff, but definitely offers great views. There is not always a shack open at Jaran Hill where you can buy drinks. It looks like they open sporadicly, so bring your own drinks if you’re planning on relaxing here for a while. If you want to sit down on bean bags and order food and drinks while watching the sunset, then Sunset Point Uluwatu is the place to go. Jaran Hill is more of a nature spot without a cafe or bar while Sunset Point is an actual sunset bar.
More Bali travel inspiration
We hope you enjoyed reading this blog post about the best things to do in Uluwatu.
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Hi Ilse, wow, we enjoyed reading your interesting tips about Uluwatu. Especially your pictures of the beautiful beaches, the info about where to eat etc. The sunset at Suluban beach, breathtaking !
So nice to read what to do in and around Uluwatu. In this blog i especially like your foto’s of the caves on the Tegal Wangi beach and the Karang Boma cliff! So beautifull.