If you are seeking dramatic clifftop views, world-class surf breaks, bohemian beach stays, and a focus on wellness, Uluwatu is the best part of Bali for you.
Located on the Bukit Peninsula in the island’s south, Uluwatu is defined by its rugged coastline, incredible sunsets at Uluwatu Temple, and endless private villas and luxury resorts.
Uluwatu is the perfect destination for couples, surfers, and groups seeking a quieter, more elevated stay compared to the crowds of Seminyak or Canggu.
The pace of life here is slower, the atmosphere is laid-back, and the views of the Indian Ocean are breathtaking. This guide breaks down the best areas and hotels to help you find your perfect Bali escape.
How to Use This Guide
Use the Contents table below to jump to any section. Click a heading in the guide to return to the top and continue exploring.
Accommodation Type | Uluwatu has many types of accomodations and is know for Uluwatu high-end private villas, chic boutique hotels and 5 star luxury resorts.
For groups and families, renting a private villa with its own staff and pool is often the best value and provides the most privacy. The supply of these private rentals is very strong here, especially in the Pecatu and Ungasan areas.
Book Your Transport First | Uluwatu is geographically spread out. While the core areas like Bingin and Padang Padang have a small density of cafes, you will need to use taxis (Grab/Gojek) or rent a scooter to hop between beaches, restaurants, and the main attractions like the Temple. If you are not comfortable on a scooter, budget for daily car transport.
Adults Only Focus | Many of the smaller, luxury boutique stays, especially in the Bingin and Balangan areas, are adults only, catering specifically to couples and honeymooners seeking tranquility and a wellness focus. Always check the hotel's policy if you are travelling with children.
Surfing Season | If surfing is your primary reason for visiting, the dry season (April to October) offers the best conditions for Uluwatu’s famous left-hand reef breaks. Book your accommodation well in advance during this peak period.
Uluwatu sits on the Bukit Peninsula, an area made up of several small zones that each offer something different. Some areas are perfect for surfing and clifftop sunsets while others suit couples, luxury travellers, or quieter stays. Your experience will vary depending on where you base yourself.
Best for | Honeymooners, couples celebrating an anniversary, luxury travellers, and those seeking absolute privacy and seclusion.
The Vibe here is exclusive, breathtaking, and resort-focused. This area is dominated by five-star, architecturally stunning hotels and sprawling, privately managed villas. You come here for the quiet, the spectacular panoramic views, and the guaranteed high-end service.
Bvlgari Resort Bali
Location | Pecatu
A world class resort where Italian luxury blends with Balinese design. Expect total privacy, spacious villas with sweeping ocean views, and some of the most refined service in Bali. Guests can also access a secluded beach via the resort’s private funicular.
Six Senses Uluwatu
Location | Uluwatu Cliffs
A wellness focused luxury resort designed for couples and families. Private pool villas overlook dramatic cliffside views, while the resort offers exceptional spa treatments, immersive wellness programmes, a kids club, and serene yoga pavilions set high above the ocean.
Karma Kandara
Location | Ungasan Cliffs
A stylish clifftop resort combining traditional Balinese architecture with modern luxury. Its spacious villas offer sweeping ocean views, while an inclined lift leads to the exclusive Karma Beach Club below. Perfect for families wanting a relaxed private beach escape.
Alila Villas Uluwatu
Location | Pecatu
A striking all villa resort famous for its dramatic cantilevered Sunset Cabana and award winning architecture. Each villa features sleek modern design, private pools, and dedicated butler service, ideal for travellers who want refined luxury and unforgettable views.
Best for | First-time visitors to Uluwatu, families seeking easy beach access, and couples who want to walk to their morning coffee spot.
This area has the highest density of mid to large modern resorts, excellent cafes, and small local shops lining the main road, Jalan Labuan Sait. It is Uluwatu’s unofficial town centre, and can experience traffic congestion throughout the day.
Renaissance Bali Uluwatu
Location | Pecatu (Inland)
A modern and family friendly resort offering excellent value, spacious rooms, and multiple pools. With a great kids club and a complimentary shuttle to nearby beaches, it is ideal for travellers who want comfort, convenience, and easy access to Uluwatu’s coastline.
Suarga Padang Padang
Location | Padang Padang
A sustainable boutique resort overlooking the famous Padang Padang beach. Built with recycled materials and designed to blend naturally with its surroundings, it offers understated luxury and a peaceful atmosphere. A great choice for eco minded travellers who still want style.
Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu
Location | Bingin (Close to Padang)
A modern and upscale resort with spacious rooms, a great pool area, and an easygoing atmosphere. Its central location between Padang Padang and Bingin makes it ideal for travellers who want comfort, good facilities, and quick access to several of Uluwatu’s best beaches.
Best for | Surfers, backpackers, long-term digital nomads, and young couples who love minimalist design and a community feel.
The Vibe is rustic, bohemian, slightly budget-friendly, and highly social. The atmosphere is centred around small, often cliffside bungalows, healthy cafes (like Suka Espresso and The Loft), and world-class surf breaks. Many accommodations require a long, steep walk down a cliff path or stairs.
Biu Biu Resort Bali
Location | Balangan Cliffs (Jimbaran/Uluwatu border)
The first place we ever stayed during our first visit to Bali. La Joya Biu Biu resort is nestled on the cliff between lush gardens and Balangan Beach.
This resort offers authentic Balinese bungalows, two infinity pools, a full-service Spa and cliff top plunge pool. It operates with eco-conscious practices and features The View restaurant, perched on the cliff edge.
The Temple Lodge
Location | Bingin Cliffs
Perched above Bingin Beach, this iconic lodge combines rustic charm with spiritual vibes. The beautifully designed rooms and serene cliffside setting make it perfect for travellers seeking an intimate and soulful Uluwatu experience.
The Korowai
Location | Bingin Cliffs
This intimate bamboo retreat offers beautifully crafted huts with open air bathrooms and sweeping ocean views. Ideal for travellers seeking a serene, back to nature experience with comfort, style, and a strong connection to the surrounding cliffs and coastline.
Anantara Uluwatu
Location | Impossible Beach
Stylish suites and villas with expansive balconies overlooking the ocean. Perfect for travellers seeking mid luxury accommodation with a full-service spa, easy beach access, and a peaceful retreat near Bingin.
Gravity Hotel
Location | Pecatu (Inland)
A stylish, affordable retreat combining Scandinavian design with Balinese touches. Features a stunning pool area, serene surroundings, and a quiet atmosphere, making it ideal for travellers seeking design led comfort on a budget.
Looking for something else? Use our interactive map below to find your perfect escape.
Uluwatu offers a perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Spend your days exploring cliffside temples, enjoying world class surf breaks, discovering hidden beaches, or discovering the many coffe shops and restaurants.
Sunset and Culture | Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is a must visit. Perched on a 70 meter high cliff, the 10th century temple offers arguably the most breathtaking sunset view in all of Bali.
The Experience | Arrive an hour before sunset to walk the grounds and admire the views. Be cautious of the wild, famous and notorious monkeys, which are known to snatch sunglasses, hats, and phones.
Kecak Fire Dance | As the sun dips below the horizon, stay to watch the traditional Kecak Fire Dance performed in the open amphitheater near the temple. This atmospheric performance uses rhythmic chanting and fire to tell a Hindu epic.
Surfing and Hidden Beaches
Uluwatu is famous for its world class surf, but its beaches are equally impressive. Each one has a unique charm, from hidden coves to dramatic cliffs, offering stunning scenery even for non-surfers.
Suluban Beach | Accessed through a natural cave system beneath the cliffs, this is the jumping off point for expert surfers tackling the world famous Uluwatu break.
Padang Padang Beach | Known as the "Balinese Pipeline." The beach itself is small and tucked away, accessed by squeezing through a narrow rock passage. Its shallow outer reef makes it ideal for beginner surf lessons.
Nyang Nyang Beach | A quiet, often deserted 2km stretch of white sand, perfect for long walks and escaping the crowds. Be prepared for a steep walk down (and up!).
Beach Clubs and Dining
Perched on Uluwatu’s dramatic cliffs, the area boasts some of Bali’s most stylish beach and day clubs, featuring infinity pools, breathtaking ocean views, and exceptional dining experiences.
Single Fin | Located high above Suluban Beach, this is an Uluwatu institution. It’s a laid back surfer bar during the day but transforms into a vibrant party and sunset spot on Sunday evenings.
The Ungasan Clifftop Resort (Sundays Beach Club) | Accessed via a cliff face lift. This club is known for its white sand, calm swimming lagoon, and bean bags on the beach.
Dry Season (April to October) | Ideal for sunshine, low humidity, and excellent surfing conditions.
Wet Season (November to March) | Quieter with lower prices, but expect short daily showers and occasional debris on the beaches.
Currency | Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). ATMs are widely available around Padang Padang and major resorts. Keep small notes for warungs and local shops.
Transport |Scooter rental: IDR 70,000–100,000/day. Grab or Gojek rides: IDR 30,000–60,000. Private airport transfer: ~IDR 400,000.
Safety Tip | Always wear a helmet when riding scooters and be cautious around cliffs and Uluwatu Temple monkeys.
Dining Scene | From rustic Indonesian warungs and organic cafes, to high-end resort restaurants, Uluwatu caters to every taste.
What is the best way to get around Uluwatu? The most popular way to explore is by scooter. Roads can be busy but are generally well paved. If you are not comfortable riding a scooter, you can easily use ride sharing apps like Grab or Gojek to book a car or scooter taxi.
What is the best area for a first-time visitor? For first timers who want a balance of everything, the area around Padang Padang or the main Pecatu street offers the best centrality for shops, cafes, and easy access to multiple beaches and the Uluwatu temple.
Is Uluwatu better than Seminyak or Canggu? It depends on your travel style. Uluwatu is quieter, slower, and focused on nature, luxury, and surf. Seminyak and Canggu are more crowded, have better nightlife, and are generally better for shopping and dining variety. However, Uluwatu in recent years has become increasingly more popular and busy.
Can I swim at the beaches? Yes, but be aware of the tides and currents, as many beaches like Suluban are primarily for surfing. Melasti Beach and Thomas Beach generally offer the calmest, clearest waters for swimming and sunbathing.
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