Bali Beaches
For many tourists visiting Bali, images of palm-fringed
beaches are uppermost in their mind and  probably
the biggest single reason for purchasing that ticket to paradise.
The reality is this plus more. While the palm-fringed
beaches do exist, there is also the wild coastline and black sandy
beaches in the west, the exciting surf, the sparkling lagoons of
Lembongan island, as well as the quiet coves in the north.
Kuta Beach
Is by far the most popular and whitest beach in Bali, attracting
all ages and nationalities. The beach extends from Canggu to the
airport in Tuban. It is ideal for those who wish to combine a beach
holiday with testing their surfing skills.
Kuta beach continues to grow in popularity and is a fantastic place
to lay your sarong, frolic in the waves and soak up the warm sun.
These days beach sellers are kept behind an invisible line, so peace
is still possible on this action-packed strip.
Sunset Legian
Has been called the united nations of beaches where locals, expatriates
and tourists mingle, bargain, play football, indulge in a massage,
catch up on reading, meditate or exercise.
The two camps are easily recognized, as workers appear to wear as
many clothes as possible whereas bule (westerners) wear as little
as possible. Be prepared for scantily-clad Brazilians, G-stringed
Italians, bronzed Germans, Australian in designer surf gear, and
pretty Indonesian girls wearing multi-coloured platform shoes.
Sunset at Sunset Legian is when the beach bars fill up, the football
field is at its busiest and the locals finish their work and wade
fully clothed, skirts swirling, into the waves.
Tuban Beach
Between Kuta and the airport is lined with big hotels. Less frantic
than Kuta, it is a wonderful place to simply grab a lounger, a good
book and relax. It is safe to swim here thanks to the hotel lifeguards.
Uluwatu, Padang Padang, Bingin and Dreamland
Used to be the exclusive playgrounds of surfers. Access was along
rough dirt tracks and the hike down to some of the beaches deterred
many people. But this is no longer true, as tarred roads have been
built, along with access paths down to the most popular beaches.
This means that now anyone can take advantage of these stunning
beaches, still relatively quiet by Bali’s standards. Basic accommodation
is available at most of the beaches. Small warungs sell simple food
and drinks, and of course there are some sellers offering standard
Bali merchandise. When the surf is up you can catch world-class
rides, and when there is no surf the sea becomes a crystal clear
lagoon gently lapping the white sand. Uluwatu is particularly busy
at sunset when the monkeys play on the spectacularly located temple.
Nusa Dua
Was designed with luxury in mind. Numerous big-name hotels line
the beautiful sandy beaches which offer excellent swimming in a
protected lagoon. Some resorts have private beaches however most
are accessible. Along this beautiful stretch of beach you will find
simple but good food at cheap prices in the warung. The stretch
past the Hilton Resort is a popular surf break during the wet season.
Sanur Beach
Is a calm, quiet lagoon area offering great conditions for windsurfing,
parasailing, and other recreational activities. The chic address
of many of Bali’s rich and famous since the 1930’s, Sanur has a
lively history and is still cherished by many.
The stretch from the Grand Bali Beach Hotel to
beyond the Bali Hyatt is served by a beach path, making it possible
to enjoy the many hotels and restaurants along the strip. The calm
waters of Sanur beach make it very popular with families.
Jimbaran
Is a sleepy cove where fleets of fishing boats colour the scene.
Since the opening of the Four Seasons Resort and the Inter Continental,
this once-quiet area has now become a popular resort. Local families
and tourists are drawn by its beauty, and to enjoy the food of the
superb seafood restaurants along the beach.
Jimbaran’s grey sand and calm waters attract many people. It is
a very popular spot for windsurfing and small sailing craft, which
are available for rent.
Nusa Lembongan
Is one of the most popular destinations for day trips from Bali.
The journey takes between one and two hours depending on whether
you take a boat or motor boat. The most popular trips are on Bali
Hai and Wakalouka, but many smaller craft offer days trips with
lunch and activities.
The pristine sandy beaches with calm bays are abundant with colourful
sea life, so diving and snorkeling are very popular. For the less
adventurous, glass-bottomed boats are available. The view from the
beach, with Mount Agung looming, makes a fabulous backdrop.
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