The Hidden Beaches of Bali

Nyan Nyang Beach Villa Plenilunio

Sun and tan with a cocktail in hand—a time-tested image of Bali as the name pops up. Although the island caters to all types of travelers more often it attracts the tropics-at-heart as they seek the sun, the white sands, and, of course, the waves.

The lush beaches of Kuta and Seminyak have probably been touted ad infinitum, but for the wanderlusts who constantly seek fresh and less-populated spots, the island still has a few secret gems in store. Though increasingly busier these past few years, the beaches of Berawa, Batu Bolong, and Echo in Canggu is still worth the visit for the majestic sunset, as well as for hipster-sighting and surfers riding the waves. The beaches here (including in Kuta and Seminyak) are indeed a surfer’s heaven thus not suitable for the casual swimmers due to its strong undercurrent.

To swim, head more to the south to Uluwatu region where white sands and turquoise water awaits! The cliff-based Bingin is one of the people’s beloved “secret” beaches as you must descend innumerable steps to touch the sand. But your effort will be greatly rewarded with the sight that makes you want to jump straight to the water, surfboard or not. Afterward, take a rest and sip a healthy smoothie, cool coconut water or an ice-cold Bintang at the many cliff-side cafes. There are also various homestays available in case you’re not up to climbing the steps and decides to spend the night instead.   

Another secluded spot in Uluwatu is Gunung Payung beach: descend the more-or-less 300 steps and you’ll find the beach nestled between two cliffs— a perfect escapade from the more touristic sites. In fact, if you’re lucky, you can settle inside a wide open-fronted cave under the cliff—accessible when the tide is low—and just enjoy the sound of the waves.

Nyang Nyang beach is an isolated & the undeveloped beach of fine white sand, popular for surfing and wedding venue; accessible via a stairway.

And the thing about Bali is that the beaches are not exclusively sequestered in the south—head east or north for even quieter surroundings. Keramas beach is a gorgeous black sand beach on the east coast in the Gianyar regency where the annual World Surf League Competition is often held in. Otherwise, go for the laid-back vibe or visit the only available beach club and resort in the vicinity, Komune Bali. If you got your diving or snorkeling equipment in hand, head further east to Amed in Karangasem regency, a beach more renowned for its beautiful underwater scene, or to Tulamben where many divers go to take a snap of the sunken USAT Liberty ship.

Next up: Menjangan Island—or deer island as the name derives from the native deer who is still living on the island. It’s located off the coast of Buleleng and it’s a snorkeler’s paradise as well with exceptional coral reefs and rainbow of fishes as you take a dip. It’ll take about an hour to get to the island by boat from Pemuteran beach and currently there are no homestays or hotels for you to stay in so it’s better to take a full-day excursion and rest around Buleleng.