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Uluwatu is a unique district on Bali's southern coast, famous for its spectacular cliffs, ancient temple, and breathtaking ocean views. Visitors come for vibrant experiences, stunning landscapes, and world-class surfing. This location blends a serene atmosphere with a sense of adventure, attracting those who appreciate beautiful sunsets, romantic evenings, and active recreation.
This district is rightly considered one of the most modern and progressive resorts. Spa salons, restaurants and bars, numerous gyms and sports centers, nature, enchanting sunsets, and excellent surfing conditions are the main reasons for its popularity.
Features of the area
Uluwatu is known for its karst cliffs, providing magnificent panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Here, you'll find some of Bali's most picturesque beaches, nestled in bays and surrounded by cliffs. The area is less busy than Seminyak and Canggu, making it ideal for those seeking peace and seclusion while enjoying the natural beauty and atmosphere of southern Bali.
Who is Uluwatu Suitable For?
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- Surfers and active travelers: This is a paradise for experienced surfers, with renowned spots like Padang Padang, Suluban, and others. Strong waves and deep waters attract professionals, but beginners should seek calmer locations.
- Romantic couples: Karst cliffs, beautiful beaches, and enchanting sunsets make Uluwatu perfect for a romantic getaway. Luxury villas with ocean views, excellent service, evenings at cliffside bars, and candlelit dinners offer a special atmosphere.
- Nature and adventure enthusiasts: The area draws those seeking new discoveries and vivid impressions. Photographers will appreciate the sunsets here and fall in love with the unforgettable panorama of the ocean and cliffs. You can explore rocky coasts, enjoy the views, and immerse yourself in a peaceful atmosphere.
What to Do in Uluwatu?
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Surfing
If you're confident on a surfboard, try conquering the waves at Padang Padang and Bingin beaches, or watch the professionals at Suluban or Dreamland Beach, famous for their challenging but exhilarating waves.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple
This ancient temple is built on the edge of a 70-meter-high cliff, literally hanging over the ocean. It's considered one of Bali's nine sacred sea temples, protecting the island from evil spirits. Its impressive location makes it one of the most beautiful and significant places in Bali. Visiting Pura Luhur Uluwatu is not just a tour but an immersion into ancient Balinese customs and religious rituals. Every evening at sunset, a traditional Balinese dance performance called Kecak is held here.
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Beach Clubs and Bars
Uluwatu offers stylish beach clubs like Single Fin and Ulu Cliffhouse, where you can relax on loungers, enjoy a cocktail, and admire the ocean view.
Savaya
Savaya is one of the brightest and most popular beach clubs on the cliff, offering fantastic parties and performances by top DJs from around the world. The club is known for its luxurious atmosphere and breathtaking ocean views. Savaya is the perfect place for evening relaxation, dancing, and enjoying the sunset with DJ sets.
Padel
Padel is rapidly gaining popularity as one of Bali's favorite sports. Padel clubs in Uluwatu, like Island Padel and The Ground Bingin, are actively developing. This popular activity is perfect for adding some sport to your vacation.
A spa on a cliff
The Istana is a luxury hotel on the bluff. There is a chic spa center at the base of the hotel: several types of baths, a swimming pool, a font with ice water and a gorgeous view of the ocean. When visiting, guests are asked to hand over their phones so they can have a digital detox for a few hours. Yoga classes and day-long retreats are also available for those interested.
Cliff Climbing Gym Klimb Uluwatu
For adventure seekers and those looking for heights, the climbing gym offers various routes for all experience levels. Here, you can test your climbing skills and take part in workshops and competitions.
Paragliding
Above Timbis Beach, there's a large paragliding area where the brave can experience an unforgettable flight over the ocean and cliffs.
CrossFit Workouts
Stay fit on your vacation by participating in CrossFit workouts at Bali Training Center. The center offers intense workouts with professional instructors who will help you stay active and energetic.
Best Beaches
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- Dreamland Beach: A renowned beach that draws many visitors. It's not suitable for swimming due to strong waves and undercurrents but is particularly popular among surfers, locals, and those who appreciate stunning sunsets.
- Bingin Beach: A clean and picturesque beach reached by a steep staircase down the cliff. It's a favorite spot for experienced surfers. In the evenings, barbecues are prepared on the beach, offering views of the sunset and the ocean.
- Padang Padang Beach: A legendary Bali beach with white sand and azure water, prominently featured in the movie "Eat Pray Love." It's always crowded and a magnet for tourists.
- Thomas Beach: A hidden gem in Uluwatu attracting tourists with its tranquility and secluded atmosphere. You can reach the beach via a long staircase, but it's worth it. Here, you'll find fine sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming during low tide and peaceful relaxation. It's significantly less crowded than other Uluwatu beaches, making it an ideal spot to unwind away from the crowds.
- Suluban (or Uluwatu) Beach: A "secret" beach tucked away in Uluwatu's cliffs. The entrance is through a cave, and the beach itself is small, with a rocky bottom and underwater currents. High tide floods the beach, while low tide allows for walks along the cliffs. En route to the beach, you'll find numerous bars, restaurants, and beach clubs, including the famous Single Fin, offering stunning ocean views.
- Nyang Nyang Beach: One of the wild beaches on the southern coast of the Bukit Peninsula. It's perfect for walks during low tide and popular among photographers. On the cliff above the beach, there's a plane-shaped villa, one of Bali's most unique and expensive hotels.
Where to Watch the Sunset in Uluwatu?
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Single Fin: A renowned cliffside bar offering stunning sunset views. It's one of the most popular places to watch sunsets in Bali, featuring live performances and DJ sets.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple: Visiting the temple in the evening lets you enjoy the ocean view, the beautiful Balinese sunset, and witness the traditional Kecak dance performance.
Dreamland Beach: A favorite not only for tourists but also locals. From the elevated area near the beach, you can enjoy a beautiful ocean view and watch surfers conquering powerful waves in the setting sun.
Jaran Hill Cliff: One of the most beautiful and lesser-known places to watch the sunset in Bukit. It offers panoramic views of the limestone cliffs, with the Uluwatu Temple visible in the distance. Access this spot via a dirt road to the lighthouse, then walk about 50 meters to the viewpoint. This secluded place will provide an unforgettable sunset experience without crowds.
Karang Boma Cliff: Located near Nyang Nyang Beach, this cliff overlooks the Indian Ocean, offering breathtaking sunset views. It's easily accessible and popular among travelers seeking stunning views and atmospheric sunset photos.
Cafes and Restaurants
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A modern and cozy organic cafe with a relaxed atmosphere near Bingin Beach. It attracts health-conscious individuals with fruit bowls, smoothies, avocado toast, and homemade granola for breakfast. It's an excellent choice for vegetarians and those following conscious eating. The portions are generous, and the ingredients are fresh, located in a quiet spot away from the noise and dust of the main streets.
With a unique surfer vibe, Drifter is not just a cafe but also a shop selling surfing equipment and stylish beachwear. Breakfasts here are hearty with poached eggs, omelettes, and local specialties like nasi goreng. The space features wooden elements and greenery, creating a cozy and bright atmosphere.
A spacious and bright cafe with a cozy ambiance near Padang Padang Beach. They serve delicious and filling breakfasts, including classics like eggs benedict, avocado toast, and hearty bowls. The cafe also offers excellent coffee, fresh juices, and cocktails to energize your day. Bukit Cafe is a popular breakfast spot among tourists, so it's best to arrive early to enjoy a quiet atmosphere without crowds.
An aesthetic and stylish cafe that attracts coffee aficionados and those seeking interesting breakfast options. It's undoubtedly the most popular breakfast spot in Uluwatu, with sometimes long queues. The menu features fresh fruit bowls, avocado toast, cottage cheese pancakes, and creative snacks. Suka Espresso combines minimalist interior design with bold flavors. It's suitable for a relaxed morning snack or meeting friends over a cup of aromatic coffee.
A vegan cafe and juice bar focusing on healthy and natural eating. They serve unique breakfasts like vegetable bowls, superfood smoothies, raw desserts, and a wide selection of fresh juices. You can also create your breakfast from a variety of ingredients. The space is bright and stylish, with soft tones and live plants, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Alchemy is perfect for those who prefer light and nutritious breakfasts focusing on health. They also provide a large coworking space.
Where to Have Dinner?
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A restaurant with a boho-chic vibe and stunning ocean views, perfect for dinner with international cuisine, including seafood, steaks, and creative starters. Every Friday, the venue hosts parties and live music performances, creating a cozy celebration atmosphere.
One of Uluwatu's most popular restaurants, known for its Mediterranean menu where simplicity and rich flavors shine. The interior blends Balinese and Scandinavian elements, creating a stylish and cozy space for dining with friends or a romantic dinner. Try their pasta, fresh Scandinavian salmon, or juicy burgers—each dish is a flavorful discovery. Ours also offers discounted breakfasts starting from 85k and a happy hour with half-priced cocktails from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, giving you more reasons to return.
A cozy Italian restaurant favored by those who appreciate authentic Italian cuisine. The interior resembles a traditional Italian trattoria with live plants and wooden furnishings. They serve homemade pasta, Neapolitan pizzas, truffle ravioli, and other Italian dishes prepared with love and attention to detail. La Baracca is ideal for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends to enjoy a warm atmosphere and delightful flavors.
This exclusive restaurant, located in a natural cave, adds an air of mystery and wonder to your dining experience. They offer seven and ten-course sets with optional wine or cocktail pairings, making the culinary experience unforgettable. The evening is accompanied by a light show while guests enjoy dishes such as seared oysters, lobster bisque, foie gras, and slow-cooked 48-hour ribs. Vegetarian options are also available. The Cave is perfect for a special occasion.
An open-air restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and inventive design. The menu offers fusion dishes with surprising flavor combinations, blending Asian and Western cuisines. In the evening, lanterns illuminate and live music plays, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
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