Because most of the beaches on the island of Bali have such incredible surf and waves, this does not make them ideal for snorkelling. However, if you travel to the east of the island to Padangbai, you will find three beaches with paradise white sand and calm, clear waters. This quiet sleepy fishing village doesn’t attract so many visitors, meaning the beaches are often quiet and peaceful. Bloo Lagoon beach, located near the Bloo Lagoon eco-resort just over the hill to the left, has the best snorkelling, with calm clear waters, scattered rocks and coral. Amongst the sea life you can expect to see Napolean Wrasse, reef sharks, stonefish, moray, rays, squid, octopus and blue ribbon eels. There is also a beautiful, secluded white sand beach over the hill to the right of the town, which is lined with palm trees and is the closest thing to a tropical island paradise.
Best Beach for People Watching
If you’re looking for a beach full of beautiful people, with plenty of bars and restaurants and activities going on, then Seminyak is the beach for you. Whilst the long sandy beach isn’t as idyllic as some of the others on the island, it is great for people watching, attracting hundreds of tourists looking for fun in the sun. Seminyak’s beach is an extension of Kuta Beach and is a long stretch of flat, compact sand with rolling waves perfect for learning to surf or having a go on a boogie board. You can lie back on a sun lounger with a Bintang or if you’re feeling a bit more energetic, play a game of bat and ball. Seminyak’s beach has one of the best views of the sunset, so if you can afford the price tag, have a cocktail and watch the sun go down from Ku De Ta, Bali’s world-famous bar.
Best Beach for Ultimate Relaxation
Few backpackers have heard of this beach, but Balangan, down in the south of the island past Jimbaran, is one of the ultimate for relaxing and letting your cares fade away. This sandy beach is lined with palm trees and is also a great spot for skilled surfers, with glassy waves rolling in over the coral reef. You can relax on a sun lounger in front of one of the beach shacks with a banana milkshake and a view of the surf, or go for a swim in one of the many natural rock pools. As the tide goes out you can go for a wander over the reef to get a closer view of the surfers in action. Balangan is a peaceful, tropical beach which will make you feel like you’re a million miles away from reality.
Best Beach for Experienced Surfers
Uluwatu, at the southern tip of Bali, is famous for its temple perched dramatically on the cliffs. Tourists flock to Uluwatu to see the band of monkeys that run around the temple complex, and to witness the traditional dance performance at sunset. But Uluwatu is also the most famous spot in Bali for experienced surfers, offering perfect waves during high season when the swell is good. Pantai Suluban is sheltered by steep cliffs, so on a windy day it’s perfect if you want to avoid getting sand in your eyes. Set in the cliffs are several warungs serving traditional Indonesian food like Nasi Goreng and banana pancakes, as well as a couple of ding repair shops and shops selling surf wear. Sit and enjoy the incredible views with a spot of lunch or climb down the steep steps to the shingle beach where you’ll find cool caves and rock pools.
