Location
The Jimbaran area of Bali is located below the airport, just behind the Kdonganan area. It is one of the six districts of the Bukit Peninsula, which include Kdonganan, Jimbaran, Pechatu, Ungasan, Kutuh and Benoa (better known as Nusa Dua).
Transport
From the airport to Jimbaran it takes 10-20 minutes.
The street Jalan Uluwatu that runs through all of Jimbaran is quite busy and not very suitable for walking, although there are sidewalks on most of it.
If you don't live in a hotel in the lower part of Jimbaran before the hill ascent, it will be difficult for you to get around without transportation. Important places such as shops, beaches, and restaurants are located at a distance from each other. You will need to rent a bike or a car or use taxi services to get around.
Atmosphere
Jimbaran is a calmer area compared to Kuta. Along the beach, next to the hotels, is a fishing village that was the initial settlement of this area.
In Jimbaran, there are quite a few migrant workers from various parts of Indonesia. Therefore, in this area, you can find relatively inexpensive accommodation. The downside is that it's difficult to find genuine Balinese charm here.
Accommodation
Along the Jimbaran beachfront, you'll find several large hotels such as the Four Seasons, Keraton Jimbaran Resort, and InterContinental. Additionally, there are budget guesthouses within walking distance of the beach. Many expensive and luxurious villas are also located in Jimbaran.
Among the most famous and recommended hotels in Jimbaran are the Four Seasons Resort Bali, The Astari Villa & Residence, Ayana Resort and Spa Bali, Rimba Resort, and InterContinental Bali Resort.
There are a couple of settlements in Jimbaran where many foreigners reside. These include Permata Ariza, Puri Gading, and Perumahan Balangan Pratama. If you are looking for a long-term rental home, consider exploring these settlements.
Entertainment
The nightlife scene is practically non-existent in Jimbaran. Most people head to Kuta and Seminyak for nightlife activities.
You can head to the southern part of the Bukit Peninsula to party at Pecatu. The Single Fin club hosts parties there.
There are also parties at beach clubs like Karma Beach and Ulu Cliffhouse. These establishments are a bit more upscale, so be prepared for higher prices.
Keep an eye on the party schedules on the Instagram profiles of these venues.
Grocery stores and markets
There are large chain grocery stores in Jimbaran:
Prices for most products in Pepito are higher. But there are more imported products there.
There are also food markets and fruit and vegetable stands along the road.
In the northern part of Jimbaran - Kedonganan beach, closer to the airport, there is a seafood market (Pasar Ikan Kedonganan), where you can buy fresh fish. It is better to come there in the morning, although the market itself is open until sunset, that is, until 18.00 - 19.00 hours.
Restaurants
In Jimbaran, there are plenty of restaurants to suit every budget - from simple local eateries to exquisite dining establishments.
Many tourists in Bali know Jimbaran because of its seafood restaurants, where many come to enjoy seafood at sunset. The restaurants are located right on the beach, creating a romantic atmosphere. Although sometimes they can be crowded and noisy. The best time to visit is at sunset.
Beaches
Jimbaran Beach is sandy, about 2 kilometers long, and has almost no waves. The water is usually murky. The bottom is sandy, although sometimes you can feel large pebbles under your feet when entering the water.
You can swim both at low tide and high tide. Swimming here is safe. During low tide, it's very convenient to walk or jog here.
In winter, the beach can often be very dirty.
From the beaches of Jimbaran, we can also mention Tegal Wangi. This beach was a secret for a long time. Now it's often visited by wedding photographers to capture loving couples. It's not advisable to swim there, but you can take photos.
Nearby, there's a spot for water jumps, i.e., for cliff jumping.
On the border of the Jimbaran and Pecatu districts lies the famous beach and surf spot, Balangan. It's not very suitable for swimming because the bottom near the shore is rocky. During high tide, waves can hit you against the rocks, and during low tide, these rocks are exposed, and the water recedes very far.
But you can enjoy sunbathing on the beach during the day. Additionally, Balangan is a popular spot in the area for watching the sunset.
Surfing
In Jimbaran, you can only surf at the Jimbaran spot when the waves at other spots are very big. It's a beach break. The waves are bad, not of good quality. The swell is weak. Read more in the article "Description of surf spots in Bali."
At Balangan, there's a fairly fast left-hand wave. It's sensitive to direction; you need to be as far south as possible. The wave often closes out quickly, so you need to carefully pick your wave to start. It holds almost any swell.
You can add one right now!