Bali has a wide range of coastal landscapes, and each one suits a different kind of traveler. Some shorelines are famous for powerful surf breaks, while others offer calm, clear waters that feel made for a relaxed dip, especially for first-time visitors, families, and anyone who is looking for a place to stay near beaches.
This guide is designed to help you find the best beaches in Bali for swimming, with practical notes on what makes each spot comfortable, safe, and worth adding to your itinerary. From well-known resort coastlines to quieter hidden corners, here are some of the most beautiful Bali beaches to spend a full day in the water.
To make it easier, this list is grouped by region. Each area offers a different vibe, and together they cover many of the best beaches in Bali for a safe and enjoyable swim.
If you want convenience, easy access, and consistently calm conditions, South Bali is a great starting point. It is home to several of the island’s most established coastal areas, complete with strong facilities, smooth entry points to the sea, and plenty of nearby cafés and rest stops.
Different from Kuta or Seminyak, which have vibrant nightlife, Sanur is considered one of the most family-friendly coastlines on the island. It is protected by a long reef that helps keep the water calm and shallow near the shore, making it a comfortable place for children to splash around and for adults to swim without worrying about heavy waves.
Sanur also has a relaxed “old Bali” atmosphere, along with a long paved boardwalk that stretches for kilometers and is perfect for morning walks or cycling. Traditional jukung boats line the sand, and the sunrise here is one of the most iconic on the island.
Its location is also very practical, sitting roughly 20 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. If you are looking for cheap accommodation for a family in Bali\ but still have walking distance to the beach, Sanur is your must-visit.
Nusa Dua is known for its polished resort area and clean, well-maintained shoreline, making it one of the safest places in Bali for families. The sea here is typically clear and gentle, making it a strong choice for travelers who want a peaceful swim in a premium setting.
The sand is soft, the water is inviting, and the overall atmosphere feels calm and spacious compared to more crowded beaches.
One of the area’s highlights is Waterblow, a natural rock formation where waves crash dramatically into the cliffs. Even if you come primarily to swim, it is worth visiting for the scenery and photos.
Hidden behind towering limestone cliffs, Pandawa has become increasingly popular thanks to its bright turquoise water and wide sandy shoreline. The ocean here is often calm, which makes it one of the best beaches in Bali for swimming, and it is also great for light activities like kayaking.
The drive down is part of the experience, with a dramatic road carved through white limestone and statues of the Pandawa heroes standing proudly along the cliff walls. For those visiting Bali with family, you can easily find a good family villa nearby offering exclusivity and easy access to the beach.
Geger is a quieter alternative near Nusa Dua that feels more local and peaceful, with many options of cheap villas with private pools nearby. The sand is golden, the atmosphere is breezy, and the sea tends to stay warm and gentle.
It is ideal for travelers who want a calmer swim away from the more active resort zones, without going too far from South Bali’s conveniences. This is also one of the few places in the area where you can still see seaweed farming, adding a unique cultural touch to the landscape.
For travelers who don’t mind a longer drive, East Bali offers a more “off the beaten path” experience. The coastline here feels wilder, quieter, and less commercial, with a few beaches that many visitors miss entirely.
If you want more nature and fewer crowds, this region holds some of the most rewarding Bali beaches to explore.
Virgin Beach feels like a tropical postcard: white sand, coconut trees, and green hills rising behind the shoreline. Many people describe it as a top contender for the best beach in Bali when it comes to atmosphere, mainly because it remains less crowded than the south.
It is also one of the few white-sand beaches in East Bali, where many shores are naturally black volcanic sand. It's a more “untouched” feeling, meaning fewer buildings and more scenery, perfect for anyone who wants a slower beach day with family.
We recommend you visit this beach with a larger group trip so you can choose a larger villa with 3 bedrooms to share the cost.
Bias Tugel is a small, hidden cove that requires a short walk to reach, but the payoff is worth it. The water is bright blue, the surrounding rocks create a secluded feel, and the shoreline is compact and scenic. It is a great option if you enjoy swimming somewhere that feels tucked away and private.
Because it is near the Padang Bai harbor, it’s also a convenient stop if you’re traveling onward to Lombok. Do note that the path can be rocky, so proper footwear helps, and pack essential things for your Bali trips like mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. .
Crystal Bay lives up to its name, with clear water and a classic tropical setting framed by palm trees and a small rocky island in the middle of the bay. It is frequently mentioned among the best beaches for swimming in Bali, especially for travelers who want to combine a casual swim with snorkeling near the shore.
Located on the west coast of Nusa Penida, this beach is also popular for diving and is known for seasonal sightings of the mola-mola (sunfish). The sunset view here, with the rocky island silhouette, is a bonus that makes the day feel complete.
The Bukit Peninsula is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden coves that create a very different swimming experience compared to other Bali beaches. Many of the shores here sit at the base of towering cliffs, offering striking scenery and a more secluded atmosphere.
If you are looking for a unique coastal escape, these are some of the best beaches in Bali to explore in the Bukit area.
Made famous by Eat Pray Love, Padang Padang is accessed through a narrow limestone crevice that opens into a compact, picturesque bay. When the tide is right, it becomes one of the best beaches for swimming in Bali, thanks to its sheltered setting and gentle water.
Located on the western side of the Bukit Peninsula, visitors reach the beach by walking down a staircase carved through the rock, adding to the sense of discovery and charm.
Melasti Beach has quickly gained recognition as one of the best beaches in Bali, especially since the construction of its scenic paved access road. The contrast between deep blue water and towering white limestone cliffs creates a truly cinematic landscape.
The winding road leading down the cliff, combined with traditional Balinese gates at the entrance, makes Melasti one of the most visually striking Bali beaches and a favorite for photography as well as swimming during calm conditions.
Dreamland Beach offers a wide stretch of white sand set below high cliffs, surrounded by upscale villas and golf courses. While waves can be strong at certain times, low tide often provides calmer conditions that allow for a refreshing swim close to shore.
Located near the Pecatu area, this beach is also a renowned surf spot, where you can relax on the sand while watching experienced surfers take on powerful breaks. If you enjoy the area, staying nearby in a spacious villa can be a great option for groups or families.
Planning beach days is always better when you have a comfortable place to return to afterward. Across Bali, there are many accommodation options close to the coast, from affordable 2-bedroom villas in Canggu to cheap private pool villas in Seminyak, Stay at SOLO has it all.
For travelers who want easy access to popular beach areas while still enjoying space and privacy, Stay at Solo provides helpful guidance on finding the right accommodation near some of the best beaches in Bali for swimming, making it easier to relax and unwind throughout your trip.
1. Which Bali beach has the clearest water?
Nusa Dua Beach is often praised for its clear, calm water, while Diamond Beach in Nusa Penida is known for its striking turquoise color. Water clarity can also vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
2. Should you swim on Bali beaches?
Swimming is generally safe, but it is important to pay attention to beach flags. Red flags indicate strong currents and unsafe conditions, while red and yellow flags mark areas monitored by lifeguards and considered safer for swimming.
3. Is it jellyfish season in Bali?
Jellyfish may occasionally appear between July and September as water temperatures shift. Most are harmless, but it is always best to check with locals or lifeguards before entering the water.