Nomads, here’s all you need to know about your holiday in Uluwatu, Bali
Drive south from popular areas like Canggu and Seminyak, and you’ll find yourself in charming Uluwatu, Bali. The name is a combination of the words “ulu” (land’s end) and “watu” (rock), and sure enough, you’ll find this perfectly chill region at the south-western tip of the peninsula, boasting of breathtaking limestone cliffs that overlook fine shorelines and big waves.
It’s known to be more laidback than your typical Bali scene, popular for its great surf as well as being home to some of the island’s most impressive villas. Find out what hidden gems are waiting in Uluwatu (hint: it’s more than just surfing!), away from the traffic and crowds of sun searchers.
Scroll down for your curated guide to Uluwatu, Bali!
GETTING TO & AROUND ULUWATU, BALI
WHERE TO STAY NEAR ULUWATU, BALI
Getting To & Around Uluwatu, Bali
Uluwatu is only a 45-minute ride from the Denpasar Airport, with lots of transportation options available from taxis, cars, shuttles or towncars. Private transfers are recommended for convenience, which you can easily arrange with your villa of choice.
If you’re coming from nearby towns like Kuta or Seminyak, a drive to Uluwatu can take you anywhere between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic.
Once you’re there, getting around is easiest with a private vehicle, so you can take charge of your own itinerary and go from cliffs to the shore. (Insider tip: taxis are available here, and there are even taxi stands near popular beaches, but if you’re exploring off the beaten path, they might be harder to come by). Another option is renting a scooter; since there’s relatively less traffic in this area, you can zip through the straight roads with little worry—as long as you’ve got a helmet on, of course!
When to Go to Uluwatu, Bali
Like the rest of the island, Uluwatu goes through two seasons: wet (November-March) and dry (April-October), and planning your trip around what kind of activities you have in mind is key for a stress-free holiday.
For surfers, the best time to visit would be during the summer months between June to August. By then, the weather is drier and less humid, and the waves are at their biggest, inviting lots of excited surfers for a sesh. If you want to experience smaller waves, which work well for beginners, plan your trip around September.
Meanwhile, March to May is typically peak season in Bali—so while Uluwatu is not as packed as Seminyak or Kuta, you can expect more company than usual. It’s peak season for a reason, though: the pleasant weather is just right for outdoor activities like diving, snorkeling, and surfing.
Don’t let the rainy season get you down, though! November through March may see rainfall, but with tropical islands like Bali, it’s never excessive or continuous. Relaxing and taking in Uluwatu’s sights is still very much doable, though you’ll need to check weather advisories when it comes to ticking off any outdoor itineraries.
Where to Stay Near Uluwatu, Bali
If you’re an adventurous soul chasing waves, we recommend: The Rocks
Where it is: Uluwatu, Bali
What you get: A six-bedrooom cliffside escape with direct access to one of Uluwatu’s most famous surf breaks. Offering true barefoot luxury, The Rocks is perfect for experienced surfers who want stunning ocean views, surf in, surf out accessibility, and a breezy beachfront experience. Looking for more R&R? The sun terrace is perfect for yoga sessions, al fresco meals, and sundowners. On top of that, The Rocks is just a short drive to Uluwatu Temple and other day trip excursions!
Why you’ll love it: You’re perched right above Impossibles Beach, a legendary reef break known for its long, fast waves — ideal for adventurous, intermediate surfers looking to level up their game.
What to do: Just a stone’s throw from The Rocks, you’ll find a trio of gems for post-surf chill and feel-good vibes. Grab a cold one at The Bench Brewery, a casual open-air craft brewery perfect for unwinding after a session on the waves. And when it’s time to slow things down, drop in at Happy Puppy Yoga Uluwatu where downward dog meets actual dogs! Yes, there are real puppies involved in this playful, wellness-meets-fluff experience.
READ MORE: Villa of the Week: The Rocks, A Cliffside Bali Villa In Uluwatu
If you’d rather stay in and tune out, we recommend: Villa Kapungkur
Where it is: Jimbaran, Bali
What you’ll get: Spacious 5-bedroom villa with an enchanting landscaped garden, semi-open pavillon, a 15m outdoor pool, and a spa or yoga bale by the pond.
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Why you’ll love it: 5-star service all to yourself. The villa has a dedicated team, which includes a villa manager, 24/7 security, housekeepers, and a private chef upon request.
What to do: The villa is just minutes away from a mellow beach with forgiving waves—perfect for beginner surfers easing into Bali’s wave culture. Don’t miss Jimbaran Bay, a seaside seafood haven that’s been dishing out grilled favorites since the ’90s. Yes, it’s an older area—but still very much the place to go for a sunset dinner with your feet in the sand.
READ MORE: Barbecue Time: 8 Bali Villas Made For The Best BBQ Parties
What to Do in Uluwatu, Bali
Like we said, there’s more to Uluwatu than just surfing, though that’s definitely on top of the list! Here’s what we recommend:
1. Get acquainted with the waves.
It’s called surfer’s HQ for a reason, after all. Popular beaches for surfing include Padang Padang, Bingin Beach, and Dreamland. Though if you’re not up for it yet, chilling by the shore is always an option.
Wondering which beaches you can enjoy on your own? Head to Green Bowl Beach, a “hidden” spot with soft, white sand, great waves, 2 caves.
2. Try your hand at other outdoor activities.
How about a swim at Thomas Beach or paragliding at Nyang Nyang Beach? Villas can also make arrangements for island hopping, snorkeling, and even a volcano trek, whichever you’re up for!
3. Visit the Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple.
Perched cliffside and approximately 70m above the waves, this is one of 6 key temples known as Bali’s spiritual pillars. Here, you’ll find ancient sculptures, traces of traditional Balinese architecture, and a great vantage point overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Don’t miss the Kecak Fire Dance, an unforgettable performance that happens every day at around sunset.
4. Dine at a warung.
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Beachside or fine dining? Whichever you fancy, it’s worth a try! Kelly’s Warung along Bingin Beach serves hearty bowls, refreshing drinks, and ice cold beers. Meanwhile, The Warung at Alila Villas can give you a taste of Indonesian cuisine with a luxe twist.
Plant-based? Alchemy is your go-to. A Uluwatu outpost of the iconic Ubud café, it’s a favorite for vegan and vegetarian meals that are mostly gluten-free (and always colourful).
5. Grab a cold one and chill out ’til sunset!
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Just because Uluwatu has a rep for being relaxed doesn’t mean they don’t know how to throw a good party! Beachfront, we love Sunday’s Beach Club. Aside from the great location, they also serve delicious food and drinks that look just as good on the gram. Stick around for the live band performances and sunset bonfires.
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Alternatively, on the cliffs, there’s Savaya Bali, voted #1 Club in Asia for 2024 and 2025, that’s guaranteed to show you a good time. First off, the interiors alone will wow you. And more than that, they have a stellar line-up of DJs who will have you dancing the night away! Check out their monthly schedules to know which musical acts are performing, and keep an eye out for those themed nights.
See you in Uluwatu? Don’t miss our other guides for your next Bali escape.
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