Every year, visitors travel to Uluwatu, Bali Indonesia for world-class surfing, cliffside temples, and white-sand beaches on the Indian Ocean. This Uluwatu Travel Guide will cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to Bali’s southern peninsula.
About Uluwatu, Bali Indonesia
Uluwatu is located on the southernmost tip of Bali, Indonesia, and is known for having incredible surf, beautiful beaches, jawdropping cliff views, and an overall laid-back ambiance.
The landscape is the perfect blend of lush jungle and rugged coastline. You never know when you’ll discover a charming little beach bar or a delicious cafe surrounded by greenery.
Uluwatu is more spread out than some of the other areas around Bali. There isn’t a traditional “downtown” area, so to speak, but visitors do tend to congregate around Single Fin Bar to socialize, watch the surfers, and enjoy the sunset.
How To Get To Uluwatu From The Bali Airport
The easiest way to get from the Bali Airport to Uluwatu is by taxi. When you exit the airport at arrivals, you’ll see a stand where you can hire a taxi to Uluwatu on the Bukit Peninsula.
A taxi from the airport to Uluwatu will likely cost around 350K rupiah (about $25 USD) flat rate. You can also choose to have the taxi run the meter but this can be risky if you’re traveling at a high traffic time of day.
I’ve done it both ways and it can be hit or miss. If you happen to arrive at a low-traffic time of day, like early in the morning, the metered taxi can work out to be easier on the budget. But if you’d rather not risk it, the flat-rate taxis are also a good way to go.
If you’re coming from another part of Bali, your hotel or guest house can help you arrange a taxi transfer.
Getting Around Uluwatu
In most areas around Bali, you can use rideshare services like Grab or Gojek. Unfortunately, once you’re in the Bukit Peninsula, these services are much harder to use. The whole area is a “drop off only” zone so you’ll either have to take local taxis or rent a motorbike and drive yourself.
Not many areas of Uluwatu are walkable, so having a scooter is the best way to go. There are plenty of motorbike rental places around Uluwatu, but the easiest way to handle your Uluwatu scooter rental is through your accommodation.
Many guesthouses and hotels have scooter rental available at a better rate for guests and you won’t have to worry about picking up and dropping off the bike at another location.
Scooter rentals typically cost between 50K and 70K (about $3.50 – $5.00 USD) per day.
Things To Do In Uluwatu
Even though Uluwatu is known for having a peaceful atmosphere, there are still plenty of fun things to do. Make sure to check out these top Uluwatu activities and attractions when you visit.
Enjoy The Beaches In Uluwatu
You won’t have to look hard to find an incredible beach in Uluwatu. Most beaches feature white sand, clear blue water, and dramatic cliffs surrounding all sides.
Whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach with a good book or hitting the waves with your surfboard, Uluwatu has no shortage of sunny stretches of paradise.
Go Surfing In Uluwatu
Uluwatu is known for being one of the best places to surf in Bali – and the world. Uluwatu is best for intermediate and experienced surfers since the waves can be powerful and are often crowded in this area.
Some of the most popular areas for surfing around Uluwatu
- Suluban Beach: Hidden cave beach with access to surf near Single Fin Restaurant
- Padang Padang: Best all-around surf spot with board rentals on the beach
- Green Bowl: Remote beach on the south coast of the Bukit Peninsula with rock formations and waves
- Dreamland: Popular surf spot for intermediate and advanced surfers with cliff views
If you’re a beginner interested in taking surfing lessons, you can rent a board and find an instructor at Padang Padang Beach. You can also consider booking a stay at an Uluwatu Surf Camp like Rapture or Padang Padang Surf Camp.
Visit The Uluwatu Temple For The Kecak Fire Dance
The Uluwatu Temple is located high on a cliff with panoramic views out to sea. In the evening, you can attend the Kecak Fire Dance, a performance which celebrates Balinese culture.
The Kecak Fire Dance uses dancing, chanting, costumes, and fire to tell the story of the Ramayana, a Hindu Epic. Set against a vibrant sunset, the Kecak Fire Dance at the Uluwatu Temple should definitely be on your Bali bucket list.
Sunset And Dancing At Single Fin
Single Fin is a popular bar located on the Uluwatu coast that’s known for being a top sunset spot. Make sure to stop by in the evenings to watch the surfers catch waves at Suluban and enjoy a cold one while the sky changes colors.
On Sunday nights, Single Fin is the place to be with live music and dancing!
Click here to read more about 14 Fun Things To Do In Uluwatu!
Where To Eat In Uluwatu
Bali is known for being a haven for foodies, and Uluwatu is no exception. Make sure you don’t miss these top restaurants and cafes when visiting Uluwatu!
Suka Espresso Cafe $
Suka Espresso Cafe was one of those places I ended up going day after day. This brunch spot was easy on the budget with great coffee and a lively morning atmosphere.
Katz Kitchen $
Even though it’s farther away from the beaches, the Thai food at Katz Kitchen is worth the drive. Authentic Thai flavors will make you dream about every dish at Katz Kitchen long after you’ve eaten there.
Beetroot Cafe $
Beetroot Cafe has budget-friendly coffees, breakfast dishes, and smoothie bowls, making this the perfect place to start your day. I recommend the rainbow bowl!
Bread Basket Bali $
Bread Basket is a bit outside the main Uluwatu area but worth the drive if you’re craving European bakery staples. You can order a meal here or buy bagels, baguettes, and sweet treats to take home with you.
When I went, I kid you not, I bought a little baguette, an almond croissant, a cinnamon roll, and two flavors of giant German Pretzels that I ate all by myself in the span of a few hours… it was amazing.
Waroeng Spesial Sambal “SS” $
Waroeng Spesial Sambal “SS” is the perfect place to experience Sambal, authentic Javanese cuisine. This is a local hotspot and a way to try some seriously delicious Indonesian cuisine that packs a punch.
Start by ordering a few different sambas or spicy condiments. Then order meats, veggies, and rice to share and eat to your heart’s content.
La Baracca Italian $$
We found ourselves at this charming little Italian restaurant in Uluwatu any time the pizza cravings hit. La Baracca serves elegant Italian classics like pasta and pizza that will make your mouth water.
Because they have a charming outdoor eating space back in the jungle, it feels like you’re eating in an enchanted garden.
Rolling Fork Italian $$
Just a few blocks down the road from La Baracca, you’ll find another spectacular Italian restaurant called Rolling Fork Uluwatu. Rolling fork is a top spot for pasta and pizza set in a cozy cottage atmosphere.
La Pasion $$
La Pasion serves some of the best Mexican food in Uluwatu. They have a large brunch menu, live music on Monday nights, and a relaxing pool-side dining patio. If you’re a Mexican food enthusiast like me, you’ll probably want to move in!
Where To Stay In Uluwatu
Uluwatu has some amazing places to stay that won’t break the bank. Staying in Uluwatu is ideal for surfers and anyone who wants a quiet jungle atmosphere that’s still very close to the beach.
Telaga Sari Guest House
We initially booked Telaga Sari for a few nights but ended up extending our stay by two weeks because we loved it so much.
Telaga Sari Uluwatu had a spacious pool and garden area as well as comfortable hotel-style accommodation.
The hosts were so kind and they ran a little onsite cafe that served delicious meals throughout the day. The rooms were cleaned daily and the vibe was relaxing and welcoming.
Telaga Sari Guest House is within walking distance to Bingin Beach and a three-minute scooter ride to Dreamland.
WIRA Homestay and Spa
WIRA Homestay and Spa offers bright, beautiful rooms on a lush property with a pool. Guests have access to parking, WiFi, and an onsite restaurant, all at a price point that’s pretty easy on the budget.
Across the board, WIRA Homestay has incredible reviews for its friendly staff, updated rooms, and peaceful atmosphere.
Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort and Spa
If you’re looking for a more luxurious resort experience, head to the Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort and Spa! They have several pools, restaurants, and bars onsite, all of which feature the iconic sea and cliff views that Uluwatu is known for.
Final Thoughts: Uluwatu Travel Guide, Bali Indonesia
Uluwatu will always hold a special place in my heart as one of my favorite Bali destinations. It’s the perfect combination of rugged cliffs and lush jungle, relaxing beaches, and exciting surfing spots, and casual cafes and high-end dining.
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway in a location that’s anything but boring, head to Uluwatu Bali Indonesia!
More Bali, Indonesia Travel Posts
Check out these Indonesia travel blog posts to help you plan your trip!
- Where To Stay In Bali, Indonesia
- 14 Fun Things To Do In Uluwatu, Bali
- Where To Stay In Canggu, Bali
- Best Restaurants In Canggu, Bali
- Learning To Surf In Bali, Indonesia
