No warungs, surf schools, or cafes will remain on Balangan, a popular tourist beach in Bukit. The clearing is set to begin as soon as the demolition of illegal structures on Bingin is complete. The Bali authorities are taking serious action against unauthorized construction, stating this is just the beginning.
At Balangan, plans are to demolish at least 23 illegal structures currently located along the shore. According to officials, these were built without proper permits and violate zoning regulations, as they stand directly on state land in a zone where construction is prohibited. Most of the structures listed are restaurants, some of which precariously overhang the coastline.
"Balangan is similar to Bingin. The same violations: everything is built right on the sand, within the shoreline boundaries," said Dewa Nyoman Rai Darmadi, head of Bali's Satpol PP local police unit.
He confirmed that additional document checks are being conducted, and a final demolition decision will be made after the regional parliament (DPRD Bali) concludes its deliberation. So, no heavy machinery is present at Balangan yet.
Even if a demolition decision is reached, dismantling will only commence after works at Bingin Beach, where illegal structures are currently being dismantled. These works are expected to be completed by the end of August 2025, after which bulldozers and excavators may advance towards Balangan.
List of venues set for demolition at Balangan
Restaurants at Balangan have become the next target following the high-profile demolitions at Bingin Beach in Pecatu village. On July 21, clearing began on 48 structures, including cafes, guesthouses, and other commercial venues. According to the authorities, all were built on land belonging to the Badung district and lacked official permits.
The governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, personally oversaw the demolition at Bingin, emphasizing the seriousness of his intentions:
"I know some are trying to play games with the law. This is a warning for everyone: do not break it. Especially for the tourist businesses that believe they can build without permits. We will tolerate it no more," Wayan Koster stated later.
He also mentioned that nine other sites across the island are being monitored. The exact locations remain undisclosed, but actions will be taken for each if the regional parliament gives the "green light," promised the governor.
Meanwhile, Wayan Koster promised that order will be restored in tourist zones strictly within the law, with a focus on environmental and urban planning standards.
Dewa Nyoman Rai Darmadi, head of the local police division, spoke about the future of these sites. According to him, the areas will be returned to public use, meaning no new hotels or restaurants should appear there. There may only be viewing points accessible to all.
"This is not a place for private businesses. Let people simply enjoy the view," he concluded.
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