If you’ve followed us for a while, you’ll know one thing — we love Uluwatu. Not just in a “nice place to visit” kind of way, but in a deeply personal, this-place-changed-our-life kind of way. We visit Bali every single year and always base ourselves in Uluwatu. It’s become our second home. In fact, it’s so special to us that we chose to get married at Uluwatu Surf Villas in 2023, surrounded by all our family and friends. That alone should tell you how much this place means to us.
We’ve explored almost every corner of Uluwatu over the years. We’ve stayed at The Elementum, Uluwatu Surf Villas, Los Cabos Villa, Green Eco Escape and so many more — watching this once sleepy beach town slowly grow and evolve year after year. We remember when Bingin felt like a handful of eco villas and one dusty road. Now there are incredible cafés, beach clubs and boutique stays popping up constantly. And yet, somehow, Uluwatu still holds onto its magic.
What keeps us coming back? The cliffs. The turquoise water. The raw coastline. Our favourite beach is Thomas Beach, it still feels like a little hidden pocket of paradise and easily one of the best beaches in Uluwatu. We’ll never say no to a long, slow breakfast at Cashew Tree (an absolute Bingin icon), sunset drinks overlooking the ocean, or an afternoon hopping between beaches. Uluwatu just has this balance of adventure, beauty and soul that’s hard to explain until you’ve experienced it.
So if you’re planning your trip and wondering about the best things to do in Uluwatu, this is the guide we wish we had years ago. In this Uluwatu guide, we’re sharing everything, the beaches we love, where to eat, where to stay, sunset spots, hidden gems, and the experiences that make this southern corner of Bali so special.
If you’re finishing your Bali itinerary here (which we always recommend), prepare yourself — Uluwatu has a way of stealing your heart.
1. Visit Uluwatu Temple
Perched on a dramatic cliff 70 meters above the ocean, Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is one of Bali’s most famous temples and one of the top things to do in Uluwatu. The best time to visit is at sunset when the sky turns into a mix of orange, pink, and purple hues. The views from here are amazing.
We visited as the last stop on a private day tour around Uluwatu, but you can easily buy tickets at the entrance for $5.00. Just be careful, as there are monkeys about. We watched a few of them steal a hat and a bag from a lady.
Don’t Miss: The Kecak Fire Dance, a mesmerising Balinese performance held at the temple every evening.
📍 Entrance Fee: IDR 50,000 (3 USD)
Tip: Watch out for cheeky monkeys—they love stealing sunglasses and phones!
2. See the Kecak Fire Dance
The Kecak Fire Dance in Uluwatu is one of Bali’s most mesmerising cultural performances, set against the stunning backdrop of the Uluwatu Temple at sunset. This traditional Balinese dance tells a dramatic battle between good and evil, brought to life through rhythmic chanting, intricate choreography, and fiery visuals.
Unlike other Balinese dances, the Kecak Dance is performed without musical instruments— instead, a chorus of over 50 men chant “cak-cak-cak” in unison, creating an entrancing atmosphere.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a good seat, as the open-air amphitheatre fills up quickly
📍 Entrance Fee: IDR 50,000
3. Go Surfing at Uluwatu’s Legendary Breaks
Uluwatu is one of the best surfing destinations in Bali, attracting surfers from all over the world. Even if you’re not a surfer, it is fun to watch! It’s our tradition to leave the kids with the nanny and grab a couple of drinks at Single Finn – as its my husband’s favourite spot to watch the surf.
Best Surf Spots in Uluwatu:
- Uluwatu Surf Break – Advanced surfers, powerful waves
- Padang Padang – Bali’s “Pipeline” for experienced surfers
- Bingin Beach – Consistent reef break, great for intermediates
- Dreamland Beach – Good for beginners on small days
4. Become a local at Bingin Beach
I adore Bingin. It’s such a chill little beach town and has to be one of the most underrated beaches in Uluwatu. Bingin Beach is a surfer’s paradise with powerful waves and a chilled-out atmosphere. It is home to some pretty amazing villas, boutique hotels like Green Eco Escape and Elementum and our favourite cafe- Cashew Tree.
5. Visit the Cave Restaurant
One of the best things to do in Uluwatu is an unforgettable dining experience at The Cave by Chef Ryan Clift located within The Edge Estate. Enjoy seven or ten courses simultaneously with 7 interludes between meals projected on The cave’s historic, natural walls.
This underground natural cave was found in 2013 during the construction of a new villa. After being preserved, the cave became a restaurant offering a unique dining experience. This degustation, mixed with dramatic flair makes this one of the best restaurants in Uluwatu!
Location: The Edge Estate, Uluwatu
Best For: Special occasions & romantic dinners
Instagram: @thecavebali
6. Relax at Uluwatu’s Best Beaches
One of our favourite things to do in Uluwatu is explore the beautiful beaches. After all, Uluwatu is home to the best beaches in Bali each offering something unique. Whether you’re a surfer, sunbather, or explorer, these beaches should be on your Bali itinerary.
Padang Padang Beach
Famous for its appearance in Eat Pray Love, Padang Padang Beach is a small but stunning beach with crystal-clear waters and incredible rock formations.
- Best For: Swimming, sunbathing, beginner surfing
- Entrance Fee: IDR 15,000 (~$1 USD)
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds
Suluban Beach (Blue Point Beach)
Hidden beneath cliffs, Suluban Beach is a magical spot for surfers and photographers. At low tide, you can explore the rock caves and find secret lagoons.
- Best For: Surfing, exploring caves, dramatic scenery
- Best Time to Visit: Mid to low tide
Nyang Nyang Beach
For those looking for a secluded escape, Nyang Nyang Beach is a must-visit. You’ll need to hike down the cliffside trail, but the pristine white sand and turquoise waters make it worth the effort.
- Best For: Solitude, photography, adventure seekers
7. Experience Uluwatu’s Iconic Beach Clubs
Looking for fun things to do in Uluwatu? Uluwatu is famous for its luxurious beach clubs, where you can sip on cocktails, enjoy infinity pools, and dance to live DJs while overlooking the ocean.
Sundays Beach Club
Tucked away in a private bay, Sundays Beach Club is a slice of paradise. With white sand, crystal-clear water, bonfires at sunset, and a delicious menu, it’s perfect for a relaxing day.
- Entrance Fee: IDR 500,000 (~$30 USD, includes food & drink credit)
- Best For: Luxury beach vibes, kayaking, snorkeling
Savaya Bali
Perched on a clifftop 100 meters above the ocean, Savaya is Bali’s ultimate day club experience. Expect big-name DJs like Fisher and Dipolo, a high-energy crowd, and breathtaking views. We chose Savaya as our pre-wedding party and got to dance to Flight Facilities with all our friends and family – it was one book for sure!
- Best For: Party lovers, high-end luxury, sunset cocktails
- Entrance Fee: Varies based on events
El Kabron
A Spanish-inspired clifftop restaurant and bar, El Kabron is the best beach club in Uluwatu for watching the sunset! Sit back with a pitcher of sangria and some tapas and enjoy the sunset show complete with trumpet and violin!
- Best For: Romantic dinners, relaxed vibes
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset hours
8. Indulge in the Best Restaurants & Cafes in Uluwatu
Bali’s food scene has long been dominated by the popular Seminyak and Canggu, but Uluwatu is quickly becoming a top contender with its growing lineup of charming cafés, clifftop fine dining, and everything in between.
After all, that exploring and surfing, you’ll need to refuel at Uluwatu’s best cafes and restaurants.
Best Cafes in Uluwatu
- Cashew Tree Cafe – Best cafe with a PLAYGROUND
- Mana Uluwatu – Sustainable, oceanfront cafe with delicious smoothie bowls
- Alchemy – Best raw and organic food in Uluwatu
Best Restaurants in Uluwatu
- The Cave by Chef Ryan Clift – A unique fine-dining experience inside a natural cave
- CIRE – Relaxed atmosphere with a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes
- Tabu – Best for Japanese fusion and a vibe!
9. Watch the Sunset from Uluwatu’s Best Viewpoints
Sunsets in Uluwatu are nothing short of magical its what makes it one of the best areas in Bali to stay! My favourite spots to watch the sun go down are Uluwatu Surf Villas or El Kabron which we got to experience during our wedding in 2023. There are many magical spots however that are a bit more doable on a regular holiday.
Best Sunset Spots in Uluwatu:
- Uluwatu Temple (iconic sunset over the cliffs)
- Single Fin Bar (chilled-out surf bar with live music)
- Karang Boma Cliff (Uluwatu Cliff) (epic panoramic views)
Tip: Some of the BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN ULUWATU have amazing sunset views!
10. Have Dinner at CIRE at Alila Uluwatu
For a luxurious dining experience, head to CIRE at Alila Uluwatu, an elegant clifftop restaurant offering modern Asian and Mediterranean cuisine. With sweeping ocean views and an intimate setting, it’s the perfect place for a romantic sunset dinner.
We visited for our 1 year wedding anniversary and it was such a treat. We had sunset drinks beforehand at the whisky bar and then were treated to a traditional Balinese dance. The food was amazing, with truffle pasta being a standout.
11. Party at Savaya Nightclub
If you love high-energy beach clubs, head to Savaya Bali, perched on a clifftop 100 meters above the ocean. Expect big-name DJs like Fisher and Flight Facilities, luxury poolside lounging, and epic sunset parties.
📍 Entrance Fee: Varies by event
12. Take a day trip to Sundays Beach Club
Sundays Beach Club is one of Uluwatu’s most exclusive beachfront escapes, offering a private white sand beach, turquoise waters, and a laid-back yet luxurious vibe. Nestled below the cliffs of The Ungasan Clifftop Resort, this secluded paradise is perfect for swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or simply lounging on a bean bag with a cocktail in hand.
As the sun sets, guests can enjoy a bonfire on the beach, creating the perfect atmosphere for a relaxed evening by the ocean. With a carefully curated menu featuring fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and tropical drinks, Sundays Beach Club is easily one of the best things to do in Uluwatu.
📍 Entrance Fee: IDR 500,000 (~$30 USD, includes food & drink credit)
13. Shop at Uluwatu’s Best Boutiques
Just like Canggu, Uluwatu is home to a collection of stylish boutiques and concept stores offering handmade jewelry, bohemian fashion, and unique homewares. Some of the best spots include Fae, Elce, The Find, Cove Island essentials
14. Stay at Uluwatu Surf Villas
Nestled on the cliffs overlooking Uluwatu Beach, Uluwatu Surf Villas is a dream stay for surfers and travelers seeking a laid-back yet luxurious retreat. Enjoy private pool villas, stunning ocean views, and direct access to some of Bali’s best waves. We got married here in 2023 and absolutely fell in love with the incredible property. We were also lucky enough to stay again in 2024 as my sister also got married here too.
15. Visit Some Of The Best Gyms in Bali
Whether you’re into strength training, CrossFit, or high-energy classes, Uluwatu has some of the best gyms in Bali. Check out Uluwatu Collective, The Jungle Gym, or S2S CrossFit for a solid workout with a tropical vibe. Or, if Pilates is more your vibe, I love Studio Fondue on the main strip. It is also next to the cutest cafe, Analog, so you can grab a coffee post-workout.
16. Have a Hit at Island Padel
Try something new and have a game at Island Padel, Bali’s first premium padel tennis club. This fun and fast-paced sport is a great way to stay active while enjoying Uluwatu’s sunshine.
17. Eat Like a Local at a Warung
Experience authentic Indonesian flavours by dining at a local warung – this is always a favourite thing to do in Uluwaut for me. These small, family-run eateries serve up delicious and affordable Indonesian dishes like nasi campur, mie goreng, and ayam betutu. Some of the best warungs in Uluwatu include Warung Local, Yeye’s Warung, and Bu Mi Warung. If we want to get fancy, try the Warung in Alila Villa.
18. Do Some Yoga at Morning Light Yoga Studio
Set in a lush jungle shala, amongst the trees of Uluwatu Surf Villas, Morning Light Yoga Studio offers serene sunrise and sunset yoga sessions. With its peaceful atmosphere and ocean views, it’s the perfect place to stretch, unwind, and reconnect.
19. Take a Day Trip to Melsati Beach
Melasti Beach is one of Bali’s most breathtaking beaches, featuring white sand, dramatic limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear water. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing at one of the beachfront beach clubs like Palmilla or Cattamaran.
20. Have a Spa Day
After all the exploring, unwind with a Balinese massage or spa treatment. Indulge in pure relaxation with a spa day in Uluwatu. Treat yourself to a traditional Balinese massage, body scrub, or facial at top wellness spots like The Bulgari Spa, Spring Spa or Karma Spa.
21. Visit Balangan Beach Viewpoint
Balangan Beach Viewpoint offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Uluwatu, making it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers. Perched on a rugged limestone cliff, this viewpoint overlooks the golden sands and turquoise waters of Balangan Beach, one of Bali’s most scenic surf spots.
The contrast between the lush green cliffs, rolling waves, and expansive ocean horizon creates an unforgettable sight, especially at sunset when the sky is painted in shades of orange and pink. It’s a popular spot for pre-wedding photoshoots and Instagram-worthy moments, so expect to see couples and photographers capturing the beauty of this natural gem.
The short walk to the cliff edge is easy, but take caution near the edge, as there are no safety barriers. Whether you’re here for the views, photography, or simply to soak in Bali’s coastal beauty, Balangan Beach Viewpoint is a must-visit in Uluwatu.
22. Discover a Hidden Gem – Thomas Beach
One of my favourite things to do in Uluwatu for a date day is wander down to Thomas Beach. If you’re looking for a quieter slice of coastline in Uluwatu, Thomas Beach deserves a spot on your list.
This tucked-away beach on the Bukit Peninsula offers soft white sand, clear blue water and a lovely laid-back vibe that’s a nice contrast to the more crowded surf breaks and touristy spots. Whether you come for a lazy beach day, a quiet swim or a mellow sunset, Thomas Beach gives you that relaxed Bali feeling without the hustle.
23. Wander through Uluwatu Markets
One of the most fun and local-feeling ways to experience Uluwatu is through its markets. Whether you’re after handmade souvenirs, boho-style beachwear, local snacks or unique gifts, Uluwatu’s small markets and pop-up stalls offer that perfect blend of Bali charm and local flavour that’s hard to find in big tourist shops.
Wandering these markets gives you a chance to meet craftspeople, support local businesses, and find one-of-a-kind items — from woven bags to surf-ready boardshorts, coconut-shell jewellery, and casual beachwear. It’s also a great low-key activity for evenings (or a shower-and-relax break), especially if you stay near the market zones.
If you’re travelling with friends or family, a market visit can be a relaxed way to explore, pick up souvenirs, and enjoy the local vibe without the intensity of full-on nightlife or busy tourist crowds.
24. Visit Pangolin Kids Club
If you’re travelling to Uluwatu with kids, Pangolin Kids Club is such a beautiful find — and honestly, one of those places that makes family travel in Bali feel easy. Designed as a creative, nature-inspired play space, Pangolin offers a calm, welcoming environment where kids can explore, play, and make new friends while parents enjoy a little breathing room (which is priceless on holiday).
We loved how thoughtfully everything is set up — from open-ended play areas to hands-on activities that encourage imagination and movement. It feels more like a community space than a typical kids club, and Kylo settled in straight away. Whether you’re staying nearby or just visiting Uluwatu for the day, it’s a lovely way to break up beach time and give kids something that’s just for them.
Places I Love to Eat At
One of the reasons we keep coming back to Uluwatu is the food scene. Between the breezy cafés, clifftop restaurant views and tiny warungs serving some of the best Indonesian meals, you can truly eat your way around the Bukit.
We always mix it up between stylish cafés and authentic warungs, and honestly, that balance is what makes eating in Uluwatu so good. Whether you’re craving Japanese fusion, wood-fired pizza, tacos, plant-based goodness or nourishing Indonesian classics, this part of Bali really delivers. These are some of our personal favourites — the places we keep revisiting every trip:
Mana Uluwatu – Stunning views, great vibes, fast Wi-Fi and incredible food. We love coming here for tacos, sunset drinks and easy digital-nomad mornings.
The Cashew Tree – A Bingin institution. Come for live music nights, healthy lunches, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay for hours.
Yuki – Chic Japanese dining with ocean views. The sushi is amazing and it’s perfect for date nights. The Wagyu Sando is iconic.
Warung YeYe – Simple, affordable, delicious Indonesian food. Our for Nasi Campur or Mie Goreng that tastes like home cooking.
Suka Espresso – One of the best cafés in Uluwatu. Avo on sourdough, the burrito bowls, the coffee — everything hits.
Tacos Aqui – This place is such a vibe. All the tacos are great, and you have to have the beef fajitas.
Ulu Garden – Spacious garden setting with live music, community events and a menu with something for everyone. I love the Salad bowls here.
CIRE at Alila Villas Uluwatu – A luxury dining experience with breathtaking clifftop views. Perfect for something special. We visited for our anniversary. Get the truffle pasta.
Ulu Cliffhouse – Come for long lunches, sunset cocktails and epic ocean views. A little fancy, a lot of fun, and always a vibe.
Where to Stay in Uluwatu
Uluwatu offers a wide range of accommodation options — from laid-back surf-villas to boutique cliff-side resorts — so you can tailor your stay to exactly how you want to experience Bali. Whether you’re coming for chill beach days, surf sessions, or romantic sunsets, there’s something for every style.
For travellers who love space, independence and a home-away-from-home vibe, private villas or small villas in areas like Bingin or near Padang Padang are ideal. These often feature pool access, outdoor spaces and a sense of privacy that makes them feel like your own little retreat. For those seeking a more resort-style stay — with on-site restaurants, café access, and helpful service — there are cliff-top resorts and boutique hotels offering comfort and convenience.
Many of our favourite picks are already included in our Best Accommodation in Uluwatu post, so if you’re after top-rated stays with good value, easy beach access or perfect sunset views — that’s a great place to check out.
Uluwatu vs Nusa Dua
While Uluwatu and Nusa Dua are both popular regions in Bali, they offer very different vibes — and knowing the difference can help you choose the right base for your trip. Uluwatu is all about surfy beaches, cliff-side views, laid-back beach-club culture, surf breaks, and a boho-chic lifestyle. It’s ideal if you love surfing, sunsets, local cafés, and a slightly more relaxed or adventurous pace.
Nusa Dua, on the other hand, is often quieter and more resort-oriented, with calm beaches, family-friendly amenities, and gentler waters — making it a safer pick for families, older travellers or anyone looking for an easy beach holiday with less of the surf vibe. If you prefer structured resort life, calmer seas for swimming, and traditional holiday comforts, Nusa Dua might feel more “holiday resort” than “island adventure.”
How Many Days in Uluwatu?
If you’re wondering how long you should stay to experience the best things to do in Uluwatu, we suggest at least four days. That gives you enough time to explore the beaches, enjoy a couple of sunset dinners, surf (or watch surfers), take it slow, and really soak up the Bali rhythm.
But if you ask us? We usually stay a full week, splitting our time between Bingin and the area near Padang Padang / Thomas Beach — it feels like the sweet spot between chill-out vibes and easy access to everything.
With a full week, you can hop between quiet beach mornings, surf sessions, sunset cocktails, lazy café lunches and even some down-time villa days which is essential when travelling to Bali with a baby.
Getting Around Uluwatu
Getting around Uluwatu is easiest with a scooter or a private driver — roads can be winding and public transport is limited, so plan accordingly. If you’re confident on a scooter and comfortable with local traffic, many of the beaches, cafés and surf spots are within a short ride of each other.
We usually walk to breakfast and get a walk in before the sun is too hot, and then need to get a gojek for the rest of the outings with the kids. If we leave the kids with the nanny and venture out for dinner, we usually opt for a Gojek scooter. This is why downloading the Gojek app and having an eSIM is essential in Bali.
As you can see there’s no shortage of things to do in Uluwatu. Easily one of Bali’s most breathtaking destinations, offering stunning beaches, epic surf spots, cultural landmarks, and incredible dining experiences. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting for you.
👉 Planning a trip to Uluwatu? Check out our Bali Travel Guide and Bali Itinerary to help you make the most of your Bali adventure!
Let us know in the comments—what’s your favourite thing to do in Uluwatu? 🏝✨[
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