In this blog post, I’m sharing my favorite places to eat, the most affordable accommodations, the best hangout spots to watch pro surfers, and the most fun activities such as surf lessons in this tropical surfer paradise. Here’s why I fell in love with Uluwatu and keep coming back.
Located on the southwestern tip of Bali, Uluwatu is a laid-back surfer town that’s been gaining popularity in recent years. Despite the rise in popularity, Uluwatu maintains its charm with cool restaurants, unique boutiques, and epic surf. From world-class surf breaks to breathtaking cliffside views, Uluwatu offers an irresistible mix of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Join me as I show you why Uluwatu is one of my favorite places to visit in Bali.
Chapters
How to get around
How To Get Around
First of all, how do you get around? Uluwatu is spread over a wide area, making walking from A to B almost impossible unless you stick to one location with a few shops and restaurants. Booking Gojek/Grab rides is a great way to get around if you don't want to ride by yourself, but it can add up to the same price as renting a scooter, which is around $5 a day.
If you're staying just a few nights, Gojek/Grab is a convenient option. But if you stay longer in town, getting a scooter and even a lesson to ride it is worth it. This way, you can easily make a "shopping day" and visit different stores around town without waiting for drivers, saving time and energy.
Scooter Rental Recommendation: The wavy rental uluwatu. You can ask for a scooter lesson with Juan or book with Uluwatu Scooter Lesson next door.
1. Accomodations - Bungalows and Guesthouses
When booking a place in Uluwatu, you quickly notice two things: accommodations are pricier than in the rest of Bali, and choosing the right area can be challenging. Uluwatu includes neighboring villages like Pecatu and Bingin, so regardless of where you stay, you’ll need a grab or scooter to get around.
Keep in mind that accommodations in Uluwatu cost more than those in Ubud or Canggu. Also, many nice-looking places have very basic bathrooms, so it's essential to book in advance to secure a nice, affordable spot with great reviews. During busy travel seasons, the best accommodations are booked up quickly. So, if you want to stay in a specific spot, make sure to book in advance. But don't worry if you are a last-minute booker; there are always places available.
Dreamsea Bali - Most Beautiful Accomodation
The most beautiful and aesthetic accommodation I highly recommend for a short stay is Dreamsea Bali. Often sold out, and for good reason, this stunning boho-style hotel is right on the oceanfront. It includes a great restaurant with beautiful views and amazing live music in the evenings. You can also enjoy yoga and surfing here. Shared rooms start at around $37 a night, depending on the room you book.
However, due to its location and inconvenient access, I recommend staying at Dreamsea for a maximum of a few days. It's perfect for beach bumming, surfing, and chilling if you want to relax by the beach in a beautiful setting. But the location is a bit challenging if you like exploring the town or visiting other beaches. Dreamsea is at the bottom of a cliff, so you have to walk down and climb several stairs back up through the hotel. This is manageable with a light backpack, but heavy bags and lots of luggage can make it stressful. Fortunately, locals at the top of the cliff offer help with carrying bags.
Another important factor to consider when booking is the room type. If you book a twin room, you might share it with a random person. I booked a twin room, thinking it was private, but I ended up sharing it with another girl. So, if you want a private room, double-check and ask before booking.
Dreamsea Bali is the reason I came to Uluwatu in the first place. I planned to stay only one night to experience Dreamsea Hotel. But once I set foot in Uluwatu, I extended my stay immediately.
Les Chalets Pecatu
For now, Les Chalets Pecatu is the most affordable and decent accommodation I've found in Uluwatu. While it's a bit farther out, it's still easily accessible. The bungalows are simple but clean, with all the essentials, including a shared kitchen and fridge. A night here costs around $28. Conveniently, the scooter rental I recommend is just across the street, and Bulls Cafe—mentioned later in this article—is only a minute's walk away. There's also a laundry service within walking distance. Overall, it's a great location at an affordable price.
Note: When booking the accommodation, select Les Chalets Pecatu specifically, as there is another similar location called Les Chalets Uluwatu, which is further out.
Seno Guest House
I chose Seno Guest House for its clean and attractive appearance, plus the bonus of a pool and its close proximity to the yoga studio I was working at. While it is a bit pricier at around $49 per night, I recommend staying here. There's no kitchen for guest, but a fridge is available to store your items.
Telaga Sari Bingin - Favorite Stay
Telaga Sari Bingin is my favorite place to stay in Uluwatu. The beautiful garden and pool area are absolutely enchanting. This accommodation is often sold out, so make sure to book in advance if you want to stay here. One night costs around $36 per night. The only minor inconvenience is that no kitchen or fridge is available for guests.
Lumbung Temu Homestay - Green Oasis
I usually stay at Les Chalets Pecatu, but I discovered Lumbung Temu Homestay on my last trip, which quickly became a new favorite. These charming bungalows are nestled behind local family houses amidst lush greenery, providing a tranquil atmosphere. The stay costs around $45 per night and includes guests' access to a communal kitchen.
Lumbung Sari - Bungalow Haven
Lumbung Sari is the most beautiful bungalow in the most aesthetic place! I booked this beautiful stay to treat myself for a week. I absolutely loved the beautiful garden and bungalows. There is a community kitchen and space to socialize with other guests. The only downside is that it's further away from the beaches I would visit every day, but since it's such a gem of a place, it's definitely worth staying here. One night is approx. $37
2. Activities - Cool Things To Do & Best Hang Out Spots
Let’s dive into the fun activities in Uluwatu! This laid-back town offers plenty of cool events and things to do. You can book a surf lesson to catch some waves, enjoy an adventure movie under the stars, watch a breathtaking sunset, or immerse yourself in a traditional Balinese show at the temple. There’s always something exciting happening in Uluwatu!
Movie Nights - Alchemy & Drifter Surf Shop
Don't miss out on movie nights at Drifter Surf Shop or Alchemy Uluwatu. At Drifter, we enjoyed a surf movie with homemade popcorn, which was really nice. One night, Alchemy played "Into the Wild" —a screening I had planned to attend until Moana announced their beach BBQ, which I couldn't resist.
To stay in the loop, follow Drifter Surf Shop and Alchemy on Instagram for updates on their upcoming movie nights and other events. You can also visit Alchemy in person to check their event wall for upcoming activities.
Beginner Surf Lessons - Moana Surf School
If you're a beginner wanting to surf in Uluwatu, I've got you covered. I booked a lesson with Moana Surf and got hooked right after my first session, which is another reason I extended my stay in Uluwatu by an extra ten days. I booked classes with Tysen for the entire week and saw amazing improvements in such a short time.
I highly recommend Moana Surf for several reasons. Tysen and Dede (surf instructors) are incredibly fun to surf with while maintaining high professionalism. The instructors not only ensure you feel safe in the water but also fill the classes with lots of laughter and joy. A private surf lesson costs IDR 700,000, and a group lesson costs IDR 500,000.
You can either book via the Moana Surf Website or send them a WhatsApp message (+62 881 0377 76529) to check availability. You can also check their Instagram to see availability for private or group classes, as they post it daily in their stories.
Post Surf Beach BBQ
Moana Surf occasionally hosts beach barbecues you don't want to miss while in town. These get-togethers are always a blast, filled with delicious food, laughter, and great company. To stay updated on their upcoming barbecues, follow their Instagram page.
Karang Boma Cliff - Perfect Sunrise & Sunset
Karang Boma Cliff is the perfect spot to catch a sunrise or sunset surrounded by nature. This cliff's view is breathtaking, offering a panoramic look over the open ocean, where massive waves crash against the shore. I was in awe of the powerful waves—they were truly amazing. Before heading there, I grabbed a coffee and a croissant, enjoying them while taking in the beautiful morning and sunrise.
Single Fin - Great Sunset Spot To Watch Surfers
Single Fin is the place to be if you're looking for a spot to enjoy an incredible sunset and watch surfers catch some insane waves. I highly recommend trying the Beef Nachos—they're absolutely delicious. Be sure to arrive early, around 5 PM, as the bar seats with the best views fill up quickly.
Note: To get to the restaurant, you'll need to pass through a private road and pay a small fee of IDR 5,000 ($0.30).
Around the Uluwatu Beach area, you'll find several great restaurants and spots for watching the sunset and surfers. One standout is La Terrazza Restaurant, which offers incredible ocean views and comfortable seating areas.
3. Best Beaches: Surf, Swim and Sunsets
What makes Uluwatu truly special is its stunning, picture-perfect white sand beaches. It's not just one or two exceptional spots—amazing beaches line the entire southern peninsula. For example, Thomas and Bingin Beaches are perfect for surfing and swimming, while Uluwatu Beach is ideal for watching surfers or relaxing in tidal pools. With such a variety, there's definitely a beach here for everyone.
Thomas Beach - Hidden Gem
Thomas Beach is my absolute favorite! It offers excellent beginner-friendly surf and beautiful sandy spots perfect for a relaxed swim. What I love most about Thomas Beach is its tranquility; it’s much quieter than the more popular beaches like Padang Padang.
You’ll find everything you need here: rent a sunbed, buy a sarong, or grab a cold drink from the friendly locals. For a bite to eat or a refreshing post-surf coconut, head over to Aris Cafe. Moana Surf is nearby for booking lessons if you want to improve your surfing skills. Thomas Beach truly has it all!
Note: Keep in mind that accessing the beach requires a walk down a set of stairs, which can be a bit of a workout when heading back up in Uluwatu’s hot climate. But the experience is well worth the effort!
Nyang Nyang - Wild Beach & Best Sunsets
Nyang Nyang Beach in Uluwatu is a hidden gem with white sand and massive cliffs. This secluded spot is perfect for those seeking a relaxed and uncrowded environment. Watching surfers from afar adds to the beach's chill vibe.
The walk down to the beach is well worth the effort. It rewards you with breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. To save yourself from the long walk, I recommend arriving by scooter.
Dreamland - Popular Sunset Spot & Quiet Sunrise
For a serene experience, visit Dreamland Beach in Uluwatu early in the morning. You'll find the beach nearly deserted, with calm, smooth waters. By around 8 AM, the waves begin to pick up, and the ocean becomes rougher as the day progresses. Swimming can be challenging due to the strong currents, so it's best to enjoy the peaceful mornings or return in the evening for a vibrant sunset experience.
You can relax on the sandy beach or unwind on the nearby cliff, enjoying the incredible ocean views. While working at a yoga studio in Uluwatu, we used to come to Dreamland Beach for morning meditations around 6:30, just as the sun was rising. It was a beautiful experience on a peaceful, quiet beach—a perfect way to start the day.
Binging Beach - Surf, Swim & Relax
Bingin Beach in Uluwatu is a surfer's paradise known for its awesome waves and vibrant surfing scene. This charming beach is perfect for catching waves and relaxing, with a selection of beach cafes and restaurants where you can eat delicious food while taking in breathtaking ocean views. Though it's a bit more popular than other nearby beaches, Bingin Beach offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of warungs and hotel accommodations to enhance your stay.
Padanag Padang - Popular Beach
Padang Padang Beach is arguably the most iconic beach in Uluwatu, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and excellent surf. It offers a picture-perfect view from above as you drive through town, making it a must-visit destination despite its popularity. While it can get quite crowded, the beach's natural beauty makes the visit worthwhile. Reaching the beach involves a bit of an adventure, with a walk through narrow rock passages, but it's generally accessible. There's a small entrance fee of IDR 10,000, and designated parking is available just across the street.
Suluban Beach - Surfer Heaven & Great Sunsets
Suluban Beach is set beneath massive cliffs and accessible via a cave. It’s renowned for its incredible surf breaks, making it a top choice for experienced surfers. The path to the beach is quite adventurous, involving a walk down several stairs and passing by charming restaurants and perfect sunset viewpoints.
In addition to surfing, you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets and explore the unique rock formations and tidal pools. It’s the perfect spot for a refreshing dip in the ocean, followed by a meal or refreshing coconut at one of the nearby restaurants while watching the sunset over the horizon.
4. Shopping - Fav Boutiques
Shopping in Uluwatu is a vibe, with aesthetic boutiques and unique shops around every corner. Many surf shops double as charming cafes, so you can sip coffee while browsing. Dive into the fun and laid-back shopping scene that Uluwatu has to offer!
1. Studio K - Organic Bamboo Active Wear
Studio K is my top pick for yoga wear. It features organic bamboo pieces that are incredibly comfortable and lightweight—ideal for the hot, tropical climate. The boutique is beautifully designed, and the breathable bamboo fabric helps you stay cool while offering great flexibility for your yoga practice.
2. The Find - Trendy Boutique
The Find is another one of my favorite boutiques for clothes, accessories, and a stylish selection of home decor. I love this store's chic offerings, including pieces from Tann Line, my go-to boutique in Canggu. While it can be pricey, the unique items make it worth the splurge. Just a heads-up: accessing the shop requires entering a private road and a small fee of IDR 5,000 ($0.30).
3. Sunday's Markets - Handmade Items
Every Sunday, I highly recommend checking out two great markets. The first is held at Hatch, a popular event location, and the second at WANA—Warung Cenana. At WANA, market vendors line the road in front of the restaurant. Don't miss out on exploring the back of the restaurant, where you'll discover even more vendors offering a diverse range of items, from clothes and jewelry to accessories, incense sticks, and handmade products like oils and soaps.
4. Cove. Bingin - Perfect For Gifts
Another beautiful boutique to visit is Cove in Bingin. While it has a modest selection of clothing, it exceeds in offering stunning souvenirs and accessories that make perfect gifts. The store's aesthetic has a beautiful vibe, ensuring you'll find something special. Just be aware that it tends to be on the pricier side.
Preloved Uluwatu - Second Hand Store
Preloved in Uluwatu is a trendy second-hand store where you can buy, sell, and swap clothes. It's a great spot for discovering unique fashion finds. Open only on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1 to 5 PM, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to refresh their wardrobe sustainably.
Drifter Surf Shop - Surf Accessorize, Books, Cafe
Drifter Surf Shop in Uluwatu is more than just a surf shop; it’s a vibrant hub for surf enthusiasts and travelers. Offering an impressive selection of surf gear, stylish apparel, and accessories, it also features a cozy café where you can unwind with a coffee. Drifter blends the best surf culture and laid-back vibes, making it a must-visit destination in Uluwatu.
Here are a few more shops I recommend
Sea Gypsy Bingin: Selection of crystals, gemstones, clothing, and jewelry.
YinSide Yoga Store: Beautiful yoga apparel and accessories
KARMAFREE SURF SHOP: Aesthetic café and surf shop
5. Yoga & Wellness
While Uluwatu is best known for its stunning beaches and world-class surf spots, it also offers a great wellness scene. Whether you're in the mood for a soothing spa treatment, a yoga session, or just some quiet time to unwind, Uluwatu has plenty of options to complement your beach adventures. Here are some top recommendations for a truly rejuvenating experience.
Laniakea Spa Bali - Best Massage
I highly recommend booking a massage at Laniakea Spa in Uluwatu. The experience begins with a soothing flower and salt foot scrub, and each massage room is equipped with a shower to rinse off the massage oil. The staff is exceptionally friendly, and the massages are top-notch. To book an appointment, send a WhatsApp message to +6287861492008 to check availability.
A one-hour Balinese massage costs around $14 (USD).
Alchemy - Yoga Studio
My favorite yoga studio from Ubud has recently expanded to Uluwatu! Since December 2023, they've opened a beautiful yoga shala here. I highly recommend checking out their yoga classes. They often host other events, like movie nights and Kirtans, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.
Next to the yoga studio, you'll find Alchemy Restaurant, a fantastic spot for a bite to eat or to hang out. Occasionally, there's a small market with vendors selling clothes and jewelry right before the restaurant and yoga studio.
Santai Recovery Spa - Outdoor Spa
Santai Recovery Spa is a hidden gem located in a cozy and intimate setting. It offers a serene environment with a sauna, both hot and cold plunge pools, and a relaxing pool. The perfect time to visit is in the late afternoon, just before sunset. This way, you can enjoy the stunning sunset while relaxing and later watch the stars as you float in the pool. If you're looking to treat yourself to a spa day in a tranquil and personal atmosphere, Santai Recovery Spa is the perfect choice.
Ulu Yoga - Yoga Teacher Trainings
If you want to deepen your yoga practice or become a yoga teacher, I recommend the MultyStyle Yoga Teacher Trainings at Ulu Yoga. The instructors are incredible, offering a diverse range of yoga practices and teaching styles. An added bonus is that Ulu Yoga has two locations: the main studio and an outdoor shala at Le Bamboo, providing a nice variety of settings for your training.
Minty's Kirtan
Minty, one of the lead yoga teachers at Ulu Yoga, hosts weekly kirtans that you won't want to miss. A kirtan is a devotional music event offering call-and-response chanting of mantras, often accompanied by musical instruments. Minty's kirtans create a transformative and healing atmosphere that is truly unique. I love the intimate setting of her sessions. She also holds kirtans at other venues like The Space. You can follow her instagram page to see when she hosts another event.
Here are some other spots I highly recommend:
The Space: A stunning venue that combines a yoga studio, café, co-working spaces, and a shopping area. It’s a vibrant hub with numerous workshops and events, making it a perfect place to work, relax, and socialize.
Morning Light Yoga: A perfect way to start your day. This beautiful outdoor shala offers breathtaking jungle and ocean views, creating a serene atmosphere.
6. Restaurants - Best Places To Dine
Uluwatu has diverse dining options to suit every taste and budget. You'll find everything from local street food and traditional Balinese warungs to trendy Western cafes and restaurants. Prices can start as low as $2 for street food, while a typical breakfast at a Western café—including coffee, a meal, and juice—averages around $10. For a more upscale experience, many restaurants, like Alchemy, offer special deals such as "buy one, get one free" pizza nights, allowing you to enjoy a pricier meal at a bargain.
Yeye's - Fav Balinese Warung
Yeye’s is one of my favorite warungs. It offers a delicious Balinese buffet where you can build your plate from a wide selection of dishes. As shown in the photo below, you choose what you want from the window, and the friendly staff will prepare your plate.
My all-time favorites here are the fried chicken, green beans with coconut, fried tempeh, and corn fritters—though a bit greasy, they are incredibly delicious.
Local Warung - Great Selection Balinese Food
Local Warung is a popular spot known for its wide selection of meats, vegetables, and vegan options like tempeh and tofu. The outdoor seating area is such a vibe and my personal favorite. You can either choose from the buffet or order from the menu. They also offer a variety of juices, smoothies, and cakes.
Nourish - Popular Western Breakfast & Pizza
Nourish is my favorite breakfast spot in town. During my time working here, I came almost every day. The staff is incredibly friendly, always greeting you with warm smiles. The food is super delicious—I highly recommend the Salmon Bagel, smoothie bowls, and fresh juices like the Booster Juice. Their smoothies, coffee, burgers, and pizzas are also excellent.
Satu Uluwatu - Local & Western Food
Satu Uluwatu is a great restaurant where you can create your own plate from diverse local and Western dishes. From local favorites to options like kale salad, you’ll find something for every palate. On my plate, for example, I chose a small curry, rice, teriyaki tempeh, and a beetroot salad with quinoa and kale. It’s a great spot to enjoy a mix of flavors. I highly recommend Satu Uluwatu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Suka - Western Restaurant
Suka is the perfect spot for a post-surfing meal, conveniently located right in front of Thomas Beach. The restaurant serves delicious coffee and a range of Western dishes. I highly recommend trying the mushroom burger—it’s delicious!
Alchemy - Vegan Restaurant
Alchemy in Uluwatu is a popular vegan restaurant celebrated for its stylish and inviting atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for brunch and offers a variety of plant-based dishes, from hearty breakfast options to pizzas. The restaurant’s modern, open space is perfect for both dining and working, with a designated area for laptop users.
Alchemy also features a small attached shop where you can find an assortment of natural skin and body care products, oils, supplements, and unpackaged items like nuts and beans. For coffee enthusiasts, % Arabica Bali Uluwatu is located next door, and they offer coffee delivery straight to your table at Alchemy.
Highlights of the menu are their vegan tuna sandwich made from jackfruit and a delicious acai bowl.
Krishna Kitchen - Indian Restaurant
Krishna Kitchen is an amazing Indian restaurant that I highly recommend. The Makhani with paneer cheese, priced at 110K IDR ($7), is a standout dish. The food is freshly prepared, so expect a bit of a wait, but it’s definitely worth it for the delicious flavors. Don’t miss out on this gem for a truly satisfying Indian meal.
Ours - Western Food
Ours in Uluwatu is definitely a vibe. The restaurant offers a chic, contemporary dining experience with a diverse menu that ranges from fresh seafood to innovative dishes. I highly recommend trying their açai bowl, which is a standout on their menu, and the stylish ambiance and top-notch service make it a perfect spot for a delicious meal or special occasion.
Bulls Coffee Pecatu
Bulls Coffee is a charming little spot located along a bustling road, perfect for a coffee and pastry break. The friendly staff and relaxed, local vibe make it a delightful place to unwind. If you’re staying at Les Chalets Accommodation, Bulls Café is conveniently right next door, adding to the convenience of your stay.
La Barraca - Italian Restaurant
La Barraca is the perfect spot for a change of pace with delicious pasta and pizza. This trendy restaurant offers fantastic Italian cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere. I highly recommend the truffle pasta—it’s truly exceptional!
Head next door to Il Salotto for a night out, where you can enjoy excellent espresso martinis and occasional DJ sets.
Summary
As I wrap up this guide to Uluwatu, it's clear why this special destination has captured my heart. With its stunning surf spots, breathtaking sunsets, and vibrant mix of activities, Uluwatu offers a thrilling and relaxing experience. Whether you're seeking the perfect wave, a quiet beach to unwind, or a cozy café to eat some local treats, this town has it all.
From affordable accommodations and charming boutiques to top-notch yoga studios and delicious restaurants, every corner of this tropical paradise has something special to offer. Uluwatu's perfect mix of natural beauty and laid-back vibe creates an atmosphere of tranquility, allowing you to truly relax and immerse yourself in Bali's unique culture.
I hope this guide helps you explore Uluwatu just as I have, discovering your own favorite spots and making unforgettable memories.
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