I still remember my first walk along a cliff at Uluwatu, the ocean stretching away and the sun turning the rocks gold. That feeling—the awe, the quiet, the urge to plan the next day—shaped how I picked places for this guide.
Table of Contents
ToggleI curated these spots by days I actually returned to: reef-protected shallows for easy swims, mellow breaks for learning, and dramatic cliffs when I wanted postcards. I’ll save you time and help you pick a beach fast based on whether you want sunset color, surf sessions, or clear water for masks and fins.
Expect small entrance fees at many gates and bring cash for parking and warungs. I preview a quick table of categories and gear—rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, snorkel set, and an action cam—so you’re ready every hour of the day.
This is a no-fluff, first-person guide that blends famous spots with quiet coves, real access notes, and the best times to chase light or calm water.
Why I Chose These Bali Beaches for Sunsets, Surfing, and Snorkeling
I pick spots by simple, repeatable checks that shape the whole experience. That means I test waves, water clarity, crowd size, and how easy the entrance feels after a long ride.
How I evaluated waves, water clarity, crowds, and access
- Wave quality and safety: can you paddle out, and where are the reef windows?
- Water clarity and sand/reef mix: is snorkeling worth the trip or is it a surf-only spot?
- Access effort: stairs, caves, or long trails (Padang Padang, Suluban, Green Bowl) and needed footwear.
- People and crowds: when spots get busy (Seminyak, Echo) and quiet alternatives (Nunggalan).
- Entrance logistics: fees, parking, and rideshare pickup limits—I often walk 5–10 minutes to meet drivers.
When to go: seasons, swell, tides, and best times of day
| Time of day | Wind/state | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Calm winds | Snorkel clarity, easy swims |
| Afternoon | Onshore breeze | Golden-hour photos, sunset crowds |
| Tide windows | Mid-tide/low varies | Uluwatu mid-tide; low reveals reef but can limit swimming |
Pre-beach checklist: reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard, water shoes, dry bag, electrolytes, compact towel, and cash for entrance fees and loungers.
Best Beaches in Bali for Sunsets
I map my sunset evenings around vibe, horizon quality, and whether I’ll want a chilled drink after the sun dips. Below are the spots I keep returning to, with quick notes on access, views, and fees.
Seminyak / Double Six
Iconic club energy with Ku De Ta and Potato Head nearby. Bean bags on the sand make it social and relaxed. Parking is cheap — about IDR 2,000 — so plan to arrive early for a front-row view.
Jimbaran
Seafood warungs set tables on the sand at dusk. It’s a classic dinner-and-sunset combo that needs almost no planning. Expect a small parking charge around IDR 5,000.
Echo Beach, Canggu
Surfer energy and La Brisa’s laid-back beach club vibe mean casual drinks and good people-watching. Entrance is usually free if you park at the venue.
Balangan Viewpoint
Dramatic cliff panoramas make this a go-to spot for wide ocean views. Stand behind the safety rail for the best angle and take care on the path if you head down to the sand.
Amed Coast
Sunset Point frames Mount Agung for moody, volcano-backlit photos. There’s no entrance fee, and the slower pace makes it perfect for lingering into blue hour.
| Location | Sunset Angle | Vibe | Typical Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seminyak / Double Six | Wide western horizon | Clubby, social | IDR 2,000 parking |
| Jimbaran | Low near-horizon | Romantic, dinner | IDR 5,000 parking |
| Echo Beach | Open west | Surfy, relaxed | Usually free |
| Amed / Balangan | Volcano silhouettes / cliff views | Moodier, panoramic | Typically free |
- Photo tip: arrive 30–40 minutes early and stay through blue hour.
- Gear: compact tripod or action cam, float strap, waterproof phone pouch, and a lightweight jacket for cliff breezes.
- Bring small change for any entrance fee and parking to avoid hassle.
Best Beaches in Bali for Surfing
I plan surf days around tide and wind; that small timing change often makes the difference between a grind and a perfect run.
Uluwatu (Suluban cave)
Uluwatu is the surf capital—Racetracks, Temples, and The Peak each offer fast reef rides best left to advanced surfers. Enter via Suluban cave and watch sets before you climb back through the rocks when waves are pumping.
Padang Padang
Padang Padang has a legendary hollow left and a gentler inside reform at the right tide. There’s usually an entrance fee around IDR 15,000–30,000 so plan cash for the gate.
Medewi
Medewi serves a long, mellow left over cobblestone—ideal for longboard trim and fewer crowds. It’s my pick when I want long lines and easy paddles.
Balian
Balian mixes sand and stone bottoms with powerful but forgiving peaks and a relaxed village vibe. No formal entrance charge makes it simple to park and walk to the lineups.
Batu Bolong & Kuta
Soft sand takeoffs and loads of surf schools make these beaches the go-to for learners. Rentals and cheap parking (about IDR 5,000) are usually available along the road.
| Spot | Difficulty | Board | Ideal tide / Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uluwatu | Advanced | Shortboard | Mid to low; Suluban cave entrance |
| Padang Padang | Advanced / Intermediate | Shortboard / Small foam | Low to mid; paid entrance |
| Medewi | Beginner to Longboard | Longboard | Mid tide; easy roadside access |
| Balian | Intermediate | All types | Mid; beach entry, free |
| Batu Bolong / Kuta | Beginner | Softboard / Funboard | Any; sandy takeoff, surf schools nearby |
A short safety note: respect reef lines, wear reef booties when the bottom is shallow, and learn the entrance and exit channels before you paddle out. I always check wind, tide, and local etiquette.
- My surf kit: rash guard, reef booties, wax, small repair kit, dry bag, sunscreen, and earplugs.
- Board tips: shortboards at Uluwatu and Padang Padang; longboards at Medewi; softboards at Batu Bolong/Kuta.
Best Beaches in Bali for Snorkeling
Morning light often makes coral colors pop, so I time my snorkel trips before wind and boats stir the water.
I favor spots where coral lies close to shore so I can step in from sand and be among fish within minutes. In Blue Lagoon (Padang Bai) the coral starts shallow and parking is cheap—usually IDR 2,000–5,000.
Jemeluk Bay at Amed gives calm water and a reef garden that waits near the shore. I find early mornings have the clearest visibility and the underwater temple is a quiet highlight.
Crystal Bay on Nusa Penida has easy entry but drops off fast; bring a vest if you plan deeper swims. Gamat Bay is richer coral but has stronger currents, so I join a boat trip there.
Menjangan Island, reached from Pemuteran, is a full-day choice. It offers wall-style reefs and exceptional visibility; expect an entrance fee near IDR 200,000 and boat logistics to be part of your plan.
| Spot | Entry point | Clarity window | Fees / Logistics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Lagoon (Padang Bai) | Sand/short walk to reef | Morning best | Parking IDR 2,000–5,000; shore entry |
| Jemeluk Bay (Amed) | Shore snorkel over reef | Calm mornings | Free; easy shore access |
| Crystal Bay (Nusa Penida) | Sandy entry then deep drop | Early day, mid tide caution | Parking ~IDR 5,000; boat options available |
| Gamat Bay (Nusa Penida) | Best by boat | Clear but current-prone | Boat trips recommended; guided tours |
| Menjangan Island (North Bali) | Boat from Pemuteran | All day; famed visibility | Entrance ~IDR 200,000; boat logistics |
Quick tips: low tide can expose reef plates and make shore entry tricky—use booties. I watch boat lanes and wear a snorkel vest when in deeper waters. For safe swimming, stay inside your limits and avoid busy channels.
- My snorkel kit: mask, dry-top snorkel, adjustable fins, anti-fog, mesh fin bag, snorkel vest, waterproof phone pouch.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a compact towel, and small change for any entrance fee or parking.
My Top Scenic and Photogenic Bali Beaches
I favor vistas where a single frame can show cliff drama, a strip of sand, and neon-blue water together. These three spots are my one best picks when I want cinematic views and simple logistics.
Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida
The carved cliff stairway drops to a white-sand cove. Swimming is not ideal here, so I treat it mainly as a photo stop.
Expect an entrance fee around IDR 45,000 plus parking of roughly IDR 5,000. Wear grippy shoes for the steps.
Melasti Beach, Ungasan
Melasti’s winding cliff road leads to wide, pristine sand and several swimmable sections at higher tide.
The colors shift with tide, so I scout lagoon pockets for the best foreground color and fewer people.
Kelingking Viewpoint, Nusa Penida
Kelingking is the classic T‑Rex headland. I keep this as a viewpoint—below is rugged ocean and risky for casual swims.
From above you get sweeping island panoramas that work for both wide shots and long telephoto frames.
- I call these my one best picks for sheer scenery and dramatic coastal views.
- Timing: morning soft light or late afternoon for warm tones on the cliffs and sand.
- Shoe tip: sturdy sandals for the stairway and loose rock paths.
| Spot | Best angle | Light timing | Crowd tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond Beach | Down-the-stair cove | Late morning–golden hour | Arrive early before tour groups |
| Melasti | Cliff road overlooks | Late afternoon | Park on the road and walk to quieter coves |
| Kelingking | High viewpoint, side profile | Sunrise or late afternoon | Stay on the ridge; avoid the steep path if tired |
Gear I bring: an action cam for cliff lines, ND filters for silky ocean shots, a microfiber cloth for sea spray, and a small foldable reflector for portraits.
Safety note: these ridgelines get hot and exposed. Carry water, use sun protection, and watch your step on loose trail sections.
Hidden Gem Beaches to Escape the Crowds
When I want wide quiet shorelines, I chase smaller coves away from the main tourist loop. These hidden beaches reward a bit of effort with space, light, and a different rhythm.
Nunggalan
I hike 15–30 minutes down to shipwreck sands beneath a forested cliff. Vendors are minimal and currents can be strong, so I watch the water and leave gear onshore during swell.
Nyang Nyang
This wild, windswept coastline is great for long walks. The shoreline calms at higher tide; shade is scarce, and paragliders sometimes launch above the trail.
Mejan (near Balian)
Mejan is a vast black sand stretch with almost no facilities. It’s my place for long, contemplative walks when I want empty horizon and time to think.
Bias Tugel, Padang Bai
A short 10-minute walk through light jungle leads to a bright-water bay with small warungs. Expect an entrance fee around IDR 10,000 and manageable waves that can pick up with tide.
| Spot | Hike time | Stairs/Trail | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nunggalan | 15–30 min | Steep trail, uneven steps | Minimal vendors, no restrooms |
| Nyang Nyang | 20–40 min | Long sandy descent, exposed | Very limited shade, no shops |
| Mejan | 5–15 min from road | Easy roadside access | No facilities |
| Bias Tugel | 10 min | Short jungle path, steps | Small warungs, paid entrance |
Essentials I pack for remote spots: shade umbrella, electrolytes, dry bag, compact towel, power bank, reef-safe sunscreen, and sunglasses. Be respectful near small temples and local offerings, and time your return climb to avoid midday heat.
Want more hidden options? See a longer list of quiet coves on this roundup.
Family-Friendly and Easy-Swim Beaches
Family beach days need calm water, shade, and easy paths; I favor spots that deliver all three. I aim for places where kids can play close to shore and I can reach a cafe or restroom without a long walk.
Sanur
Sanur’s long, reef-protected shallows make early-morning swimming safe for little ones. A paved walking path runs along the shore, so strollers and grandparents move easily.
Parking is cheap (around IDR 2,000–5,000) and small warungs line the area for quick snacks.
Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua offers resort-managed sections with loungers and calm waters at dawn. Reflective tide pools can be fun shallow play zones and toilets are usually nearby.
The manicured vibe means I can rent loungers or kayaks and return to a shaded cafe without leaving the area.
Pandawa
Pandawa has wide sand and gentle rollers that suit toddler paddles and sandcastles. Expect an entrance fee around IDR 15,000 and easy roadside parking.
Roosterfish Beach Club is a family-friendly spot for food, shade, and a shaded break from sun play.
- Why I pick these spots: lagoon-like swimming at Sanur, gentle rollers at Pandawa, and polished access at Nusa Dua.
- Best hours: early mornings for calm waters; use midday shade or a compact beach tent on hot sand.
- Family kit: UV shirts, float vests, foldable bucket and spade, collapsible cooler, wet wipes, snacks, and basic first aid (band-aids, aloe, electrolyte packets).
| Spot | Kid-friendliness | Shade & Rentals | Restroom Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanur | High — shallow lagoon swimming | Promenade shade, lounger rentals available | Frequent public restrooms and warungs |
| Nusa Dua | High — calm mornings, resort-managed | Plenty of umbrellas, kayak rentals at clubs | Resort restrooms and family facilities |
| Pandawa | Medium — roomy sand, gentle waters | Limited natural shade, nearby cafes and clubs | Basic restrooms near parking and beach entries |
If you need quick planning, use this short guide to pick the right shore for your family day. I time visits with tides that keep the shore sandy and simple to enter.
Uluwatu Focus: The Island’s Most Beautiful Beach Zone
Uluwatu’s stretch is my go-to when I want dramatic cliffs, quick cove hops, and vivid sunsets. It feels compact—one short drive connects boho cafes, surf lineups, and quiet sand pockets.
Bingin
Steep steps lead down to boho cliff cafes and a narrow shore. At higher tides surfers sit out for clean lefts. The sand pockets fill at mid to high tide, and it gets busy at sunset.
Thomas Beach
The road and stairs are improved here, so it feels mellow. I sunbathe near the entrance and swim where the reef lets out at the right tide. It’s a calm little beach for a relaxed hour.
Green Bowl
Green Bowl is tucked away with long stairs and strong surf. Monkeys hang by the parking and small warungs sit on top. I often watch from the cliff if the paddle looks heavy for the return.
Dreamland
Once hidden, Dreamland now has easier access and growing amenities. I still use it as an easy sunset spot when I want a quick view without a long descent.
- Micro-itinerary: coffee with a cliff view, mid-morning swim at Thomas, lunch on a cafe-lined strip, late-afternoon surf watch at Bingin, and dinner near Dreamland.
- Essentials: sturdy shoes, water, light layers, and a small lockbox or dry bag to stash valuables.
- Cash & entrance: bring small bills for the occasional entrance and warungs; many places prefer cash.
| Spot | Stairs | Parking |
|---|---|---|
| Bingin | Steep steps | Roadside, limited |
| Thomas Beach | Short stairs | Improved roadside parking |
| Green Bowl | Long stairs | Small lot, watch for monkeys |
| Dreamland | Easy access | Formal parking available |
I call Uluwatu my one best zone for cliffs, cove-hopping, and color-rich sunsets along this coast. Post-surf eats are simple: grilled fish at a warung or a cafe plate with rice and fresh greens—perfect after a salty session.
Sunrise Beaches Worth Waking Up For
I wake early on purpose—dawn light changes a shore in ten minutes, and I don’t want to miss it. These three spots give different moods at first light: calm color, cinematic drama, and mirror-like reflections.
Sunrise Beach, Sanur
Pantai Matahari Terbit is classic: fishing boats dot the calm, reef-protected water and the horizon fills with pastel sun tones. I arrive 20 minutes before first light and set up near the promenade for the best views.
Keramas
Keramas lays out black sand and a wide horizon. The morning swell makes moody frames—great for photos but not for relaxed swimming.
Nusa Dua shallows
At low tide you’ll find shallow pools that act like mirrors across the coast. I scout tide charts the night before and walk the sand to find glassy reflections for silhouette shots.
- Sunrise kit: headlamp, thermos mug, compact tripod, lightweight windbreaker.
- Arrival: get there 20–30 minutes early; small cash for parking and gates.
- Safety: watch reef edges in the dark and stick to marked paths.
- Photo tips: frame boats, palms, and silhouettes against the sun for strong composition.
| Spot | Parking | Facilities | Best angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanur | Small fee | Promenade cafes | Near promenade, low horizon |
| Keramas | Roadside, limited | Few warungs | Wide horizon, shore level |
| Nusa Dua | Resort lots | Early cafés | Low pools at low tide, coastal reflections |
Best Beaches in Bali for Sunsets, Surfing & Snorkeling
A well-timed itinerary makes it easy to chase glassy water, clean waves, and golden light without wasting travel time. Below I lay out sample routes that stack a sunrise snorkel, an afternoon surf, and an evening view into one smooth day or a relaxed week.
One-day plan
Dawn at Sanur, then a late-morning shore snorkel at Blue Lagoon, and finish with a Canggu or Seminyak beach sunset. Leave Sanur by 8:30 AM to catch the best clarity and avoid mid-morning traffic.
Two-day loop
Day one: Uluwatu surf midday, Balangan sunset. Day two: early Amed snorkel and a slow sunset at Amed’s Sunset Point. Book a driver for the transfer and keep gear in a single dry bag to move fast.
Seven-day guide
Rotate surf, reef time, and scenic evenings. Mix long scooter hops near Uluwatu with a few driver days to reach Nusa Penida or Menjangan without rush. Use beach clubs after calm reef mornings—late lunch, shower, then a sunset drink at a club with easy pickup.
| Route | Best start time | Transport | Budget notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanur → Blue Lagoon → Seminyak | 6:00–8:30 AM | Scooter + short driver hop | Entrance ~IDR 5k, parking small fees |
| Uluwatu → Balangan → Bingin | 9:00 AM surf prep | Driver recommended with boards | Paid entrances ~IDR15k–30k; tip for surf helpers |
| Amed snorkel loop | 6:00–9:00 AM | Driver or local boat | Boat & park fees; plan IDR 50k–200k |
Packing list: fins, mask, reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, change of clothes, and a foldable towel. I prefer scooters for short hops and a private driver when I need to move gear or cross the island—ride-share pickups at cliff clubs sometimes require a 5–10 minute walk.
Entrance Fees, Parking, and Access Tips You’ll Want to Know
Entrance points and parking are the small hassles that can shape a perfect beach day. I carry exact cash and a small dry bag so I can pay quickly and move gear. Many gates still expect cash at a booth near the entrance.
Typical fees and where you’ll pay
I keep a quick list of common amounts so I don’t get stuck at the gate. Fees often show up as a parking fee or a separate entrance payment, and they can change for events or holidays.
| Spot | Sample entrance / parking fee | Payment notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seminyak | IDR 2,000 (parking) | Cash; small booth near road |
| Jimbaran | IDR 5,000 (parking) | Cash; pay at entry |
| Pandawa | IDR 15,000 (entrance) | Cash-first; some booths accept e-wallets |
| Padang Padang | IDR 15,000–30,000 (entrance) | Cash; busy afternoons cost more |
| Menjangan | IDR 200,000 (marine park) | Boat + entrance; card sometimes accepted |
Stairs, caves, and footwear by terrain
Some beaches demand a little fitness. Suluban has a cave access and Green Bowl requires a long staircase. I break the return climb with water stops and keep a small towel handy.
| Area | Terrain | Footwear I use |
|---|---|---|
| Uluwatu / Suluban | Rocky, cave steps | Light hikers or sturdy water shoes |
| Green Bowl / steep cliffs | Long stairs, loose rock | Light hikers with grip |
| Sanur / Nusa Dua | Flat, paved access | Flip-flops or water shoes |
| Padang Padang / Padang Bay | Short stairs, reef near shore | Water shoes or reef booties |
Practical tips
- Carry small cash for any entrance fee and parking; e-wallets work rarely at small booths.
- Drivers can usually park closer and help with boards; scooters are quicker but limit luggage.
- Cliffs add drama but expect a short hike—plan water and sunscreen for the climb back up.
- Check local signs: fees can vary by event or tourist season in the area.
Essential Beach Gear, Travel Accessories, and Water Gadgets I Pack
When I head out for a day by the ocean I aim to carry only what truly improves the experience. Below are the compact kits and small tricks I use so a beach day feels effortless, whether I’m chasing waves or a calm snorkel window.
Swim and surf kit
- Rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, compact first aid, roll-top dry bag.
- Pack tip: roll wets and shirts to save space and keep sand out of zippers.
Snorkel setup & capture
- Low-volume mask, adjustable fins, anti-fog, mesh fin bag.
- Action cam + float strap and waterproof phone pouch; I stash pouches near my towel or with a friendly warung when monkeys are around.
| Water-sport kit | Weight (approx) | Pack size |
|---|---|---|
| Mask + snorkel | 0.6 lb | small pouch |
| Fins | 1.2 lb | mesh bag |
| Rash guard + booties | 0.8 lb | rolled |
| Comfort add-on | When to bring | Where it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Compact towel | All day | Quick dry at clubs & sand |
| Shade umbrella | Full sun days | Remote coves and family spots |
| Collapsible cooler | Long beach stays | Warungs, picnics |
My data guide: I use an Airalo eSIM for maps and tides (code NEWTOAIRALO15). To protect gear I use a dry bag anchor or leave items with a trusted warung and pay a small fee. For scooters I strap fins to the rear and keep fragile electronics in a padded pouch. Quick cleaning: rinse masks in fresh water, dry zippers, and shake sand out before folding.
Tides, Safety, and Ocean Etiquette for Bali’s Coasts
I treat tide windows as my basic timing tool. On reef coasts I plan entries and reef walks around mid-tide for many south spots that perform best then.
Reading tide charts for reef breaks and snorkel clarity
I check local tide tables the night before and aim for the hours when water covers reef flats without washing them out. Low tide can expose sharp plates; high tide hides channels but can lower visibility.
Currents, shorebreak, and when not to swim
Watch for sudden waves and longshore drift. If waves spike or the surface turns murky after storms, I skip the swim. A simple drift test: pick a fixed rock and note how far you move in five minutes.
Respect for temples, offerings, and local beach rules
These beaches are home to local communities. I avoid stepping on daily offerings, keep noise low near warungs, and pack out my trash. Greet the people who maintain paths—small manners go a long way.
- Do: wear reef booties, a rash guard, and carry a whistle on a lanyard.
- Don’t: drop in on surf breaks, step on offerings, or leave sunscreen in tide pools.
- Red flags: strong shorebreak, crowded lineups, and murky water after rain.
| Tide window | Risk | Best action | PPE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low tide | Exposed reef plates, sharp rock | Walk reef carefully; use reef booties | Booties, gloves |
| Mid tide | Balanced depth, good snorkel clarity | Enter for reef swims and reef-protected surf | Rash guard, whistle |
| High tide | Stronger currents, hidden channels | Scout from shore; avoid heavy shorebreaks | Vest, whistle |
| After storms | Murky water, debris | Stay ashore until clear | — |
For trip prep I keep a simple checklist and a quick guide with tide times. If you want more planning tools and local tips, see my travel resources at essential travel resources.
Getting Around: Scooters, Private Drivers, and Boat Hops
Getting around the coast comes down to a simple trade-off: independence or comfort. I pick a scooter when I want short hops, sudden stops, and flexibility to chase light. I book a private driver on a longer day that stacks several spots or when I need help with boards and gear.
When I ride a scooter vs. book a driver
Scooters (~IDR 75,000/day) save time and let me swing by a quiet beach quickly. But drivers give a relaxed 10-hour day, roomy storage, and local route knowledge.
Rideshare limits and easy workarounds
Apps drop-offs work widely, but some venues restrict pickups. My workaround: ask drivers to wait 5–10 minutes outside the restricted area and walk to the meet point. I keep small bills handy for parking and entrance booths.
Nusa Penida and Menjangan logistics
For nusa penida I aim for early boats and a clockwise loop that hits Crystal Bay and shore viewpoints. Menjangan needs a Pemuteran launch, boat operator booking, and the marine park entrance fee timed around calm windows on the northwest coast.
| Transport | Cost (approx) | Comfort | Parking Ease |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scooter | IDR 75,000/day | Low—flexible | Easy roadside |
| Private driver | Custom 10‑hr rate | High—gear help | Driver parks closer |
| Boat hop | Varies—boat + park fees | Medium—wet transfers | Harbor parking |
- Weather & swell check: I confirm morning swells and tides before choosing which beaches to target.
- Boat-hop kit: dry bag, motion sickness tabs, microfiber towel, spare batteries, and cash for last-minute fees.
- Safety note: always wear a helmet, carry your license, and confirm insurance coverage when renting scooters.
For local transport tips and trusted booking options I keep a short reference on hand at island transport tips.
Where I’d Go Next Time: My Shortlist for an Even Better Bali Beach Trip
I’m already plotting a return that leans harder into slow mornings, secret coves, and extra photo time. My one best picks are quieter pockets near Balangan and longer swim windows at Melasti.
I’d add more Amed mornings for clear reef swims and reserve a full Menjangan wall day for deep-water visibility. I’ll give Kelingking and Diamond extra hours to chase softer sand and cleaner views.
I’ll also add new spots around Uluwatu to complete the island picture and revisit rushed places with better timing.
Quick-save checklist you can screenshot: tide app for low-wind snorkel mornings, reef-safe sunscreen, cash for gates, and a flexible driver plan. Camera note: shoot cliff light 30–40 minutes before and after golden hour to avoid crowds. Mix an inland reset between coastal days to keep the discovery fun and leave room for serendipity.

















