Uluwatu is the southwestern tip of the Bukit peninsula, a dry limestone plateau whose cliffs drop straight into the Indian Ocean. It is famous for world-class surf breaks, small beaches reached by steps through the rocks, and the clifftop temple of Pura Luhur Uluwatu. In recent years it has become one of Bali's most fashionable areas, with cliff-edge villas, beach clubs and restaurants spread along the coast.
Pura Luhur Uluwatu is one of Bali's sad kahyangan jagat, the directional temples that protect the island, and it is associated with the priest Dang Hyang Nirartha. Surfers arrived in the early 1970s, and breaks such as Uluwatu, Padang Padang and Bingin became known worldwide. Long-tailed macaques live around the temple, and the evening Kecak performance on the cliff, staged against the sunset, has become one of the island's best-known cultural experiences.
Uluwatu suits surfers, couples and travelers who want dramatic scenery and a more spread-out, upscale atmosphere. The beaches are small and often reached by steep stairs, and swimming depends heavily on tide and swell. Days are for surfing, beach-hopping between Bingin, Padang Padang and Melasti, and watching the sunset from the cliffs. Distances between places are larger than in Canggu, so most visitors rent a scooter or hire a driver.
Highlights
- Kecak performance at Uluwatu Temple at sunset
- Surf at Uluwatu, Padang Padang and Bingin
- Cliff-backed beaches
- Clifftop restaurants and beach clubs
Good to know
- Check tide times, as some beaches nearly disappear at high tide.
- Keep sunglasses, hats and phones secure around the temple macaques.
- Buy Kecak tickets early in the afternoon, as the performance often sells out.
On the map
Bali 2027 Travel Guide
The complete island guide: where to go, how to get around, what to avoid, health and safety, and the phrases that open doors.