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The surfing paradise of Uluwatu is famous for having the best beaches in Bali! It feels a world away from the busy streets of Canggu or the crazy nightlife in Kuta, even though it’s really not very far. So if you’re looking for postcard-perfect beaches, dramatic cliffs, and a slow pace of life, you’ll fall in love with Uluwatu.
We love visiting Uluwatu to soak in the views, explore the magnificent temple, and eat as much seafood as we can, but there are also some pretty adventurous activities here as well. Uluwatu truly showcases the best of Bali, and it has a great holiday vibe that’s sure to put a smile on your face.
With so much in Uluwatu, we compiled a list of the 23 best things to do, to give you an idea of where to start!
Don’t have time to read the full article? Some of our favorite activities in Uluwatu are:
- See the Kecak Fire Dance on this private tour
- Take a Balinese Cooking Class
- Enjoy free local events at Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
- Go on a day trip to Nusa Penida
- Take an epic photo at the Tanah Barak Cliff
- Things to do in Uluwatu, Bali
- 1. Visit Uluwatu Temple
- 2. See the Kecak Dance
- 3. Visit a cliff beach club (or three)
- 4. Explore the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
- 5. Relax at Padang Padang Beach
- 6. Head to Nusa Dua for the day
- 7. Learn to cook Balinese cuisine at a cooking class
- 8. Day trip to Ubud
- 9. Take a boat to Nusa Penida/Swim with manta rays
- 10. Zoom through the jungle on an ATV tour
- 11. Get amazing photos on an Instagram Tour
- 12. Shop the boutiques of Uluwatu
- 13. Get a thrill on a whitewater rafting tour
- 14. Take a photo at the Tanah Barak Cliff
- 15. Secret Waterfalls Tour
- 16. Enjoy live music
- 17. Check out the amazing viewpoints
- 18. Eat amazing food
- 19. Have dinner in a cave
- 20. Dreamland Beach
- 21. Go surfing
- 22. Enjoy a spa day
- 23. Jimbaran Beach seafood BBQ
- Where to Stay in Uluwatu
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Uluwatu, Bali
1. Visit Uluwatu Temple


If you’re only going to do one thing in Uluwatu, you’ve got to visit the famous Uluwatu Temple!
This place dates back to the 11th century, so while it’s not as old as famous sites like Chichen Itza, it’s one of the oldest temples in the area, and the views will take your breath away.
For foreign visitors, the temple has an entrance fee of about $3 USD, which is well worth it, because you can easily spend an hour or two exploring. Be sure to walk right along the cliff for the best views. Just make sure to have cash in rupiah (IDR) which you can take out at an ATM in town.
There are also local guides outside who will offer you a guided tour, and you’ll need to wear a sarong around your waist to go inside, which you can bring or rent for less than $1 USD.
As well as its stunning clifftop location, Uluwatu Temple is known for its resident monkeys, who often steal phones and sunglasses from tourists. Make sure you keep your possessions safe, but if you’re worried, you can hire a guide who knows how to deal with their mischievous behavior.
The temple is open from 7 am until 7 pm daily, but it’s best to go at sunset to see the Kecak fire dancing. We’ll talk more about that below, but trust us, it’s worth it.
There’s plenty of parking at Uluwatu Temple and it only costs 1K IDR (less than 10 cents USD) per scooter, but if you don’t want to drive here you can book this private tour. If you choose the all-inclusive option, you’ll get entrance to the temple, tickets to the Kecak performance at sunset, as well as a delicious seafood dinner in nearby Jimbaran – aka Bali’s seafood capital. At $69 USD per person, we think this is a great value, especially since it includes private transport from anywhere in South Denpasar, including Uluwatu, Kuta, and Seminyak.
You can book this private tour to Uluwatu Temple online here!
2. See the Kecak Dance


Watching a Balinese Kecak performance is a must while you’re on the island. It’s a popular dance that developed in the 1930s and took the island by storm.
The Kecak dance is actually derived from Sanghyang, an exorcism dance ritual to repel evil spirits. During the performance, the dancers chant like monkeys and cavort around a fire to depict an epic battle between good and evil.
The most famous Kecak performance in Bali takes place at the Uluwatu Temple, and you’ll get incredible views because it happens at sunset!
Watching this performance from an ancient clifftop temple is an unforgettable experience. It usually starts around 6 pm, and you’ll need to pay about $10 USD to watch the dance, on top of the temple entrance fee that we mentioned above. If you’re visiting by yourself, we recommend arriving around 4-5 pm to explore the temple first and then stay for the dance.
If you don’t want to drive to the temple, you can go on this private sunset tour, which includes hotel pickup from anywhere in South Bali, including Uluwatu. You’ll still need to pay for your temple admission and Kecak performance, but for just $26 USD you’ll have a private driver and guide to show you around (and keep you safe from those pesky monkeys). Sarongs will also be provided.
Alternatively, if you want an all-inclusive option, you can book this tour, which includes a private driver, temple admission, the Kecak performance, and a seafood dinner in Jimbaran afterward. The all-inclusive option costs $60 USD per person for two, or $45 USD each for a group of four – not bad for a 6-hour private tour with fire dancing and dinner!
Related Read: For more epic experiences (and some hidden gems too!), our guide on the best things to do in Bali has it all!
3. Visit a cliff beach club (or three)

We are always looking for awesome beach clubs, and have even enjoyed the Malamala Beach Club in Fiji. Luckily for us (and you!), Bali is full of amazing beach clubs, and some of the best ones can be found right here in Uluwatu! Each one has its own unique feel, so you can go super fancy and modern, or choose something more rustic and relaxed.
In Uluwatu, the most popular beach clubs are Savaya and Single Fin, but there are also a few quieter options available.
Savaya
Savaya has to be one of the most upmarket beach clubs in the whole of Bali. It has a huge infinity pool that runs along the edge of a cliff, and there’s a walkway out to the bar and dancefloor area, which is underneath a giant cube. It’s very futuristic, and international DJs like Diplo and Calvin Harris have played here, so if you’re looking to party in Uluwatu, this really is the place to be.
It’s definitely worth checking their event calendar to see what’s on while you’re in the area. They usually host guest DJs on Saturdays and Sundays.
Ticketed weekend events cost extra, but on a weekday at Savaya, you can pay for general admission at the door or book in advance online. It costs about $10 USD from Monday to Thursday, but for Fridays, it’s closer to $15 USD if you book online. Then once you’re inside the minimum spend depends on where you sit, but prices start at $125 USD for a lounge table for four people and go up to $950 USD for a beach bungalow that can accommodate up to 15 people.
Ulu Cliffhouse
Ulu Cliffhouse is a hotel and beach club with a beautiful pool overlooking the ocean. The pool area and ocean deck are ideal, Insta-worthy backgrounds for your holiday snaps, and there are lots of delicious seafood items on the menu.
There’s no admission fee to the Ulu Cliffhouse, although they do have a minimum spend for their daybeds. You’re looking at between $6-$10 USD for a meal here and roughly $9 USD for a cocktail, which isn’t too bad by Bali beach club standards. Plus, if you visit between 5-7 pm, you can take advantage of their poolside happy hour and get 50% off drinks!
Ulu Cliffhouse is open from 8 am until “late” every day, which is usually around 10 pm – 12 am. They often have live music and other events, so check out their Facebook page to see what’s on while you’re in Uluwatu.


Single Fin
Single Fin is more relaxed than Savaya, so if you’re looking for an unpretentious beach club, then you can’t go wrong here. It has a huge balcony that overlooks the Uluwatu surf break, so you can watch the surfers while you relax or swim in the large pool, and you can catch some really beautiful sunsets from here.
It opened in 2008 when it started out as a spot to grab a post-surf Bintang (the local beer), but now they’re just as well known for its Single Fin Sundays when live music and international DJs come to perform.
You’re looking at about $3.50 USD for a bottled beer and $8 USD for a cocktail at Single Fin. If you book a VIP booth, there’s a minimum spend of $125 USD and you’ll need to pay half that as a deposit to secure your booking. Single Fin is open from 8 am until 10 pm every day except Wednesdays and Sundays when the music events go on until after midnight.
Hedonism Lounge (formerly Cliff Club)
The Hedonism Lounge at the El Kabron boasts a beautiful deck and infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and this is yet another epic sunset spot in Uluwatu! In fact, they even have a special sunset theater area where you can book a table for unobstructed views of the coast as the sky does its thing.
There’s a dancefloor and they often host DJs in the evenings, and you can even book a sofa right on the dancefloor if you’re here to party, but comfortably. Most seating areas have a minimum spend of $95 USD per person, except for the VIP Royal Sofa, which is $160 USD per person. The Hedonism Lounge is open daily from 11 am until midnight.
4. Explore the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park


There’s no denying the fact that Bali’s beach clubs are beautiful, but they’re not exactly designed for learning about the local culture. So, while you’re in Uluwatu, take some time to explore the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park.
This park is home to a 121-meter (396-foot) tall statue of the Hindu deity, Garuda, and hosts daily dance, music, and theater performances that teach visitors about Balinese folklore and heritage. These performances take place between 11 am and 6 pm, so you can spend the afternoon enjoying the park.
There are a few different ticket options available. The standard entry costs about $7.50 USD per person when you book online, and for an extra $2.50 USD, you can add a buggy ride from the entrance gate to the heart of the park where the performances take place.


Alternatively, you can book the Ultimate Bundle ticket, which includes a guided tour inside the statue of Garuda on the 9th and 23rd floors, which gives you great views of the park. This option costs $19 USD when you book online.
Whichever ticket option you choose, you’ll get complimentary admission to the Asana Artseum Photo Studio and a complimentary drink at the onsite restaurant, Jendela Bali. We loved the restaurant because of the views of the Mount Batur volcano and the surrounding coastline. It was such a beautiful place to have lunch!
5. Relax at Padang Padang Beach


Padang Padang Beach feels like a hidden gem, not least because you have to climb down some winding stone steps to get here. When the beach comes into view you’ll be greeted by the sight of white sands, rocky cliffs, and the deep blue ocean and feel like you’ve arrived in paradise. However, despite its hidden feel, this beach is actually pretty famous, so try to get here early!
This beach is protected by the reef, so it’s a great place to swim, but it’s also known for its surf breaks, so people often flock here to catch waves.
Still, despite its popularity with the pros, Padang Padang Beach is also one of the best places to learn to surf in Uluwatu. There are a handful of surf schools that offer group classes for around $13 USD, or if you already know what you’re doing, then board rentals are around $10 USD per day. That’s quite the savings compared to other popular surfing spots like Manly Beach in Sydney, so we recommend taking advantage while you’re on the island.
Padang Padang is a small beach, so there are no toilets or changing rooms here. However, there are a handful of warungs nearby where you can refuel with some nasi goreng (fried rice) and maybe a Bintang, so you can use their facilities. And if you’re craving a cold drink or a fresh coconut, there are a few vendors around on the beach, so make sure to bring cash.
6. Head to Nusa Dua for the day

Nusa Dua is a resort area 19 kilometers (12 miles) from Uluwatu, and the beaches here tend to be way less crowded, so it makes for a nice day trip.
The main beach, Mengiat Beach, is gorgeous and its waters are protected by a long reef, so it’s ideal for swimming and snorkeling away from all of the surfers that flock to Uluwatu. You can walk straight into the water and start snorkeling, or hire one of the local fishermen to take you to the best spots.
Perhaps one of the best attractions in Nusa Dua is the Waterblow site, which is a point where water funnels through the rocky shore and shoots up to 30 meters (98 feet) into the air. It’s a fantastic spot to snap some photos, although make sure your phone or camera has a waterproof casing because you will get wet here!
And if you’re looking to practice your swing while you’re in Bali, you can’t go wrong with the Bali National Golf Club, where you can play an 18-hole round for $146 USD. If you didn’t bring your clubs, you can rent some for $38 USD.
You can also spend a day at the Manarai Beach House at the Sofitel Resort, where you can enjoy water sports like jet skiing and parasailing, or just drink cocktails by the pool! They’ve also got fantastic Balinese and international food here, with a menu designed by the hotel’s Michelin-trained chef, as well as an immaculate private beach area – what more could you want? Plus, there’s no minimum spend, so this place is more budget-friendly than a lot of other beach clubs.
7. Learn to cook Balinese cuisine at a cooking class


We loved this Balinese cooking class! It takes place in a home-style kitchen in the village of Bakas, which is about an hour from Uluwatu, but the tour includes pickup so there’s no need to worry about that.
The tour starts with a trip to a local market, where your guide will teach you how to select the freshest herbs, meat, and vegetables, and how to haggle, Balinese-style, which might just come in handy later on during your trip.
After that, you get to enjoy a very hands-on cooking class and make a ton of different dishes, including Balinese fried chicken, nasi goreng, and deep-fried banana. You get your own cooking station and there’s a maximum of 10 students per group, so it’s really hands-on and easy to follow the chef’s instructions. Then, after a fun morning of cooking together, you all get to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labors.
It costs $63 USD per person, which we thought was really good value for money since transport from Uluwatu, all of the ingredients, and a big meal at the end are included. Our hosts were so lovely and this cooking class is a small, community-run operation, so it’s nice to support a local business.
You can book this highly-rated cooking class online here!
8. Day trip to Ubud


Ubud is the spiritual center of Bali, and instead of beaches, it’s famous for its lush green rice terraces and wild jungle.
It’s definitely Bali’s hippie hotspot, so you can head here for yoga classes and healing singing bowl sessions, but whatever you do, don’t miss the Tegallalang rice terraces. They’re incredibly beautiful and one of Bali’s major Instagram hotspots. There’s a huge swing here that allows you to soar over the rice fields, and you can even rent a colorful, billowing dress to make sure your photos pop!
We also loved Titra Empul, a water temple where you can participate in a spiritual Hindu bathing ceremony. We did this and found that it was a really cool way to immerse ourselves (literally) in the local culture, and it helped us cool off after walking around in the heat.
Another popular thing to do in Ubud is visit the Sacred Monkey Forest, where you can snap selfies with cheeky monkeys and visit their temple. Just be careful with your belongings as these monkeys will occasionally steal valuables in exchange for treats!
Basically, there are tons of fun things to do in Ubud, and it’s only 1.5 hours from Uluwatu by scooter so it’s easy to make a day trip. But, if you’ve only got one day to visit, it’s best to do a sightseeing tour like this one to ensure that you get to tick everything off of the list.


We love this private sightseeing tour because it hits all of Ubud’s highlights, including the monkey forest, the Tegallalang rice terraces, Titra Empul, and Tegenungan Waterfall, where you can snap some amazing photos and go for a refreshing swim. We loved this tour and our guide, Putu, was so friendly and shared a lot of information about what life is like for locals nowadays in Bali.
The price of this tour ranges from $135 USD for one person to around $70 USD each for a group of 4 or more. You can get picked up from all over Bali – including in Uluwatu – so it’s nice that transport is taken care of, and all of your admission tickets and lunch at a cute local restaurant are included! You can book tickets for this best of Ubud tour right here.
9. Take a boat to Nusa Penida/Swim with manta rays


Nusa Penida is a beautiful island off the coast of Bali, that you’ve most likely seen on Instagram thanks to its dinosaur-shaped cliffs. But although Kelingking Cliff is beautiful, there’s way more to Nusa Penida than just this one stunning spot. It’s also one of the best places to go snorkeling in Bali!
When we took this day trip to Nusa Penida, we got to take a boat out to the island, which was way easier than organizing it ourselves, and then kicked off the day with a fantastic snorkeling trip. We actually didn’t see any manta rays this time, but that’s just the luck of the draw – what can you do? We did, however, see tons of turtles and tropical fish which more than made up for it.
Perhaps the highlight of the tour, though, was the restaurant that we got to have lunch at. We had such amazing views of the island’s coastline and there was a beautiful pool to use, too.
Visiting Nusa Penida on this tour made our lives so much easier because we didn’t have to stress out over boat schedules or renting another scooter to drive ourselves around. It costs $98 USD per person if you travel on a shared boat, which is what we did, or you can book a private tour and feel like James Bond on your very own speedboat. This costs $426 USD per person for a couple, but it’s as little as $122 USD per person for a group of 8 or more, so it’s a good option if you’re traveling with friends!
Add Nusa Penida to your bucket list and book your tickets here
10. Zoom through the jungle on an ATV tour


Bali is the perfect place to unlock your adventurous side. As much as we love the beachy Uluwatu region, you have to get out and explore the jungle, and our favorite way to do that is on an ATV!
This adventure tour will take you on a full-day adventure from Uluwatu, as you go racing through the jungle, across rivers, and past rice fields, experiencing the very best of the Balinese countryside. But that’s not all – what we love about this particular tour is that you get a guided visit to a luwak coffee farm, and do a tasting! Luwak coffee, which is made from beans fed to civet cats, is one of the most expensive coffees in the world, so it’s pretty cool to try it locally in Bali.
This 8-hour tour costs $50 USD if you drive yourself, or $85 USD with hotel pickup and dropoff included. We think that this is really good value, especially since the tour includes lunch and a coffee tasting, on top of the ATV adventure. It’s available daily, just make sure to wear comfy clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
Get tickets for this ATV tour here!
Related Read: Get more of our personal recommendations in this guide to the types of tours available in Bali!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
11. Get amazing photos on an Instagram Tour


Bali is like heaven for amazing travel photos, so why not combine sightseeing with some fun photoshoots on this Instagram tour?
We had heard the hype about this tour (there are over 1,700 positive reviews online!) and let me say, it was everything I hoped for and more. We traveled to all of the island’s top Instagrammable spots with our own personal photographer. He snapped photos of us swimming underneath the Tukad Cepung Waterfall, soaring on the giant swing over the Tegallalang rice terraces, posing at the Gates of Heaven, and hopping between stepping stones at the Tirta Gangga water palace.
These Insta-famous spots are scattered about the island and we can assure you it’s worth going with a local guide who knows their way around, and understands how to capture your best angles, of course! If you want more info (and to see all the photos we got!), check out our review of the Bali Instagram tour.
This is a private tour and it’s all-inclusive, which meant we were able to relax and enjoy the experience … and say cheese every so often for our photos! It costs $134 USD each for two or more people or $199 USD if you’re a solo traveler, which actually could be ideal if you don’t have anyone to capture those all-important holiday photos for you. This price includes pickup from your hotel in Uluwatu and all admission fees, so it’s a fantastic value overall!
For the best shots, book this Bali Instagram tour here!
12. Shop the boutiques of Uluwatu

Bali in general is great for shopping, but we particularly loved all of the boutiques in Uluwatu. It’s one of the best places on the island for those who love shopping in independent stores and are always hunting for unique fashion items on holiday.
ARUN swimwear is great for bikinis, and they have so many unique and colorful designs to choose from. I also love Ananda Soul, which has such beautiful jewelry, and it’s all ethically produced because the company strives to leave as little environmental impact as possible, and ensures that all workers in the production line get paid a fair wage. Meanwhile, Mimpi Mannis Uluwatu has cute beachwear, bags, and shoes, which are the kind that I always seem to see on Pinterest but can never find in real life.
To be honest, though, there are so many great little boutiques in Uluwatu that the best thing to do is walk or drive around the area and check them out for yourself. Jalan Labuansait is one of the area’s main streets and is home to tons of cool stores, as well as Jalan Pantai Padang Padang.
13. Get a thrill on a whitewater rafting tour


We never pass up an opportunity to go whitewater rafting, and this river tour is one of those activities in Bali that’s even better during the island’s rainy season because the rapids reach up to Class IV!
Although this is perfect for thrill-seekers, you don’t need any prior rafting experience. You’ll get plenty of support and guidance from a professional instructor, so this would actually be an ideal way to try out whitewater rafting for the first time. It’s also suitable for families because kids as young as 7 are welcome to join in the fun. We’re confident that this tour is worth it whether it’s your 1st time or your 20th.
You can choose whether or not to include pickup from Uluwatu, although it’s a 2-hour drive which can be pretty uncomfortable on a scooter, so we would recommend doing so. Once you get to the rafting center, you’ll get a safety briefing and then spend 1.5 to 2 hours on the river as you zoom through the wild beauty of the Balinese countryside.
This tour costs $28 USD for adults without transfers, or $39 USD each which includes private transportation (which we highly recommend). You can also combine your rafting tour with extra activities for an additional fee, such as visiting the Ubud Monkey Forest or the rice terraces.
Book this whitewater rafting tour online in advance
14. Take a photo at the Tanah Barak Cliff


A new Instagram hotspot is emerging just outside of Uluwatu, so get here for your picture-perfect moment before it becomes too crowded!
Along the cliff-flanked Jalan Karang Pandawa road in Uluwatu, you can stop just as the coastline comes into view for the ultimate Instagram picture. The road is only 8 meters wide (26 feet) but the Tanah Barak Cliff on either side is 40 meters high (131 feet), so it looks super impressive, and even if you don’t care about getting a photo, it’s still beautiful to see.
This is a quick stop, but it’s a really pretty drive, and Pandawa Beach is also worth a visit. It has long been overlooked by tourists, but thanks to all of the attention that the Tanah Barak Cliff is getting on Instagram and TikTok, the local government is looking at investing in this place to attract more visitors to the area.
15. Secret Waterfalls Tour


Bali is home to endless stunning waterfalls, but a lot of the best-known ones are usually filled with tourists trying to get the perfect photo, which becomes pretty much impossible with a crowd! So instead, you can take this secret waterfall tour and visit those hard-to-reach spots that most visitors miss.
One of our favorite things about this tour is that it takes you to Munduk Waterfall, which is off the tourist trail in a serene local village, but is just as beautiful – if not more so – than many of the busier waterfalls. You’ll also go to the Leke Leke Waterfall which is tucked away in the jungle, and wind your way through a coffee plantation to visit the Banyu Wana Amertha Waterfall, which looks like something out of the Avatar movies!
This is such a fun way to get away from the crowds and spend the day discovering the serene natural beauty of Bali. It costs $194 USD if you go on your own and around $129 USD each for two or more people, which includes lunch and a private guide for the entire day.
Book the secret waterfall tour here!
16. Enjoy live music

One of the things that we loved about Uluwatu is that tons of places have live music every night. There are honestly too many fantastic places to list, but we will share a few of our favorites!
We really enjoyed going to The Place with No Name, which is open all day for food but hosts live music every night between 7:30-10:30 pm, with lots of jazz, reggae, and acoustic nights.
Cafe La Pasion was another of our favorites. The Mexican food, friendly atmosphere, and swimming pool would have been enough but they also have live music every day and DJs on Saturday nights. You can check their Facebook page to see what’s coming up, or we suggest just swinging by because there are always fun performances happening!
As we mentioned earlier, Single Fin Sundays are famous (or should that be notorious?) for hosting some of the top local and international DJs around.
17. Check out the amazing viewpoints


Uluwatu is famed for its dramatic coastline and rocky cliffs, so it stands to reason that there would be some fantastic viewpoints around.
One of the most beautiful is the Karang Boma Cliff, which is a stunning place to watch the sunset. If you drive yourself to the cliff, you can park right outside the big locked gate and then walk along the dirt trail to the viewpoint. Just be careful and don’t venture too close to the edge, because there’s a big drop down to the ocean below.
There’s roughly a $1 USD entrance fee to the Karong Boma Cliff, and we recommend visiting between 5 and 6 pm to watch the sunset. Getting here is a bit of an adventure, but this is a fantastic choice if you love getting off the beaten track and discovering hidden spots.
Meanwhile, Balangan Beach is another fantastic spot to watch the sunset. These west-facing cliffs overlook the beach itself and you can watch surfers catching waves as the sun goes down. This is a little easier to access than the Karong Boma Cliff because there are plenty of places to park nearby, and it’s located in a more developed area with a handful of resorts around.
Once you get to the viewpoint, there are two main areas. One is a rocky outcrop where you’ll probably see lots of couples posing for wedding photos, but the other, quieter area is this viewpoint which features a round platform covered in vines, that gives an unobstructed view of the sunset over the ocean.
18. Eat amazing food

![Breakfast at Suka Espresso [Uluwatu]](https://destinationlesstravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Breakfast-at-Suka-Espresso-Uluwatu.jpg.webp)
There are so many amazing restaurants all over Uluwatu and it felt like every meal we had here was better than the last!
We loved Ulu Garden because of its beautiful outdoor setting and delicious, healthy menu, as well as Suka Espresso [Uluwatu], which offers really tasty breakfasts and is set on a beautiful balcony. Plus, they have fun taco and margarita nights on Saturdays.
Lola’s Cantina Mexicana is a real hotspot in Canggu but there’s also one here in Uluwatu, and the menu is just as delicious. The birria tacos are a must-try!
The Place with No Name also caters really well to vegetarians and pescatarians with their health-conscious menu, and we love the fact that they have a special midnight menu that caters specifically to those late-night cravings.
19. Have dinner in a cave


If you’re looking for a really special dining experience in Uluwatu, then you can’t go wrong with dining at The Cave.
The Cave is a 22-seat restaurant set in – yep, you guessed it – a cave nestled in the cliffside. In fact, the cave was only discovered in 2013 during the construction of a new villa for the luxurious The Edge Bali Hotel, and the owners decided to conserve it and turn it into a restaurant.
So now, you can enjoy a 7 or 10-course meal inside the cave, with an optional wine or cocktail pairing if you want to go all out (which we fully support!). The menu here changes every three months, but you can check online before you go to see what kind of experimental, modern dishes you’ll be eating. Whatever it is, we’re sure that you won’t forget it in a hurry!
You can have dinner at the cave daily between 5:30-7:30 pm, or 9-11 pm for the second seating. Lunch is also available from 12:30-2:30 pm every day except Monday. The price is around $110 USD per person for a 7-course menu or $220 USD with the wine and cocktail pairing. Meanwhile, the 10-course meal costs $145 USD, or $270 USD with the drinks pairing.
These prices are before the tax and service charge, so bear in mind that this will be a pricey meal, but it’s an incredibly unique dining experience and we think it would be the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, such as an anniversary, engagement, or birthday.
Related Read: Speaking of special occasions, Fiji is full of amazing resorts that are perfect for a honeymoon!
20. Dreamland Beach

If you love escaping the tourist hotspots and discovering quieter beaches, make a beeline for Dreamland Beach, which is between the popular Balangang and Bingin Beach. It’s also easy to access, but for some reason, this beach is often overlooked, so we recommend taking full advantage!
Dreamland Beach is suitable for surfers of all levels to hit the waves, and you can rent a board for around $5 USD, or get a local instructor to give you a lesson for around $10 USD per hour, which is more affordable than many of the more popular beaches in Bali.
There are also a few nice beach bars and restaurants here where you can grab a cold drink and a bite to eat, and umbrellas are available for rent to protect you from the fierce Balinese sun! This beach is also a fantastic place to catch a beautiful sunset, and it tends to get pretty quiet in the evening when the sunbathers and surfers start packing up for the day.
21. Go surfing

Uluwatu is THE place to surf in Bali, so if you’re already a good surfer you can head to some of the area’s top spots, such as Bingin Beach, Balangan Beach, and Suluban Beach, which has five main peaks that you can surf. Meanwhile, Thomas Beach tends to be quieter because the strong current tends to put people off, but if you know what you’re doing, then this can be a great place to escape the hoards of surfers at other popular spots.
However, if you’re a beginner, it’s best to stay at Padang Padang Beach, because the Padang Padang Rights beach break is a good spot for newbies to learn the ropes. There are some instructors around you can ask for a lesson, but you’ll need to arrive early because the surf schools on this beach are in demand!
However, to secure your spot without waking up at the crack of dawn, you can also book this private lesson. It costs $52 USD and you’ll get free transport from Uluwatu to the beach that your instructor has chosen according to the conditions of the day. Then, you’ll spend 2 hours learning how to surf so that you can enjoy catching waves during the rest of your time in Bali!
22. Enjoy a spa day
Uluwatu is the perfect place to relax and unwind, and spa treatments here are so affordable that you could literally get one every single day … which is EXACTLY what we did. We also changed it up and both got facials as well, which was so lovely!
We had two go-to places for massages. The first was Esthetic Salon & Beauty Care Uluwatu, where you can get a 90-minute hot stone massage for just $20 USD (bliss!). Spring Spa Uluwatu was a little more expensive at around $28 USD for a massage of the same length, but it’s a really beautiful spa and a perfect place to treat yourself.
23. Jimbaran Beach seafood BBQ


We mentioned Jimbaran earlier, and how it is easily the best place to eat seafood in Bali thanks to the huge fish market here. Plus, you can enjoy a fantastic seafood barbecue right on the beach! The sunsets from Jimbaran Beach are really something to see, too, so this is an all-around fantastic experience.
Menega Cafe is one of the best places to eat delicious seafood and they’ve got everything from squid to barracuda to live lobster, so you’re really spoilt for choice here. If you want to try a bit of everything, you can always opt for their special set menu for two so you can sample as much as possible.
If you plan on seeing the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu temple (which you definitely should, just FYI), then this guided tour includes a candlelit dinner on Jimbaran Beach after the performance. It’s perfect because you don’t have to worry about getting back from the beach in the dark as you’ll have a private driver. This is a fantastic way to experience the best culture, views, and food that Uluwatu has to offer! You can book this 5-star private sunset tour here (and read some of the 1,000+ raving reviews!).
Where to Stay in Uluwatu

Uluwatu is a great place to stay when visiting Bali! There are plenty of choices from hostels to 5-star resorts, and we know it can be overwhelming to choose just one. We’ve listed a few options for each price range to help you decide.
Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resport – $$$
Anantara Uluwatu is a fantastic option for those looking to treat themselves during their stay in Uluwatu. It’s located right on the beach, so you’re guaranteed some amazing views. There are multiple restaurants and bars, an outdoor infinity pool, a spa, and a fitness center. Plus, each room comes with your own hot tub! The employees are super helpful, and the hotel has onsite activities like dance classes, ceramic-making, and yoga.
Prices range from $320 to $1,500 USD, and you can check rates and availability online here.
PinkCoco Uluwatu (Adults Only) – $$
We absolutely loved our stay at PinkCoco Uluwatu! They advertise “for cool adults only,” and this trendy, boutique hotel has lots of pink accents and funky decor, on top of impeccable service. It’s a 5-minute walk from Padang Padang Beach, so it’s great for surfers or beach-goers. Rooms are equipped with a fridge, safety deposit box, and an open-air bathroom, and include a private balcony with a seating area. Employees will often bring snacks and cold drinks while you’re poolside which is such a nice touch!
Prices range from $60 USD for a standard room to around $280 USD a night for the penthouse. PinkCoco sells out fast so be sure to book your stay in advance!
Home-Bience Hostel – $
Home-Bience Hostel is a great choice for those on a budget. It’s in the center of Uluwatu, and you can reach many of Uluwatu’s top attractions by motorbike within 20 minutes. This hostel has a shared kitchen, free WiFi, large lockers, a cute garden, a terrace, private parking, and a tasty complimentary breakfast. The family running Home-Bience is always so helpful and they even provide scooters to rent!
Shared dorms start at $16 USD, single rooms are around $20 USD, and double rooms cost $40 USD. You can book your stay at Home-Bience Hostel on Booking.com.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!

Well there you have it – a list of the best things to do in Uluwatu! We absolutely love visiting Bali, and there’s always something new to try here. Uluwatu is such a fantastic place to explore whether you want to surf, shop, eat, or just enjoy the views!
We hope this guide has helped plan your next adventure. We’ve traveled around Australasia and even got married in Fiji! If you’re interested in learning more about these beautiful areas, we’ve included some blogs below:
12 Best Tours in Ubud that Made us Fall in Love with Bali!
8 Things to Know BEFORE Visiting Robinson Crusoe Island, Fiji
6 Things to Know BEFORE Visiting The Rocks in Sydney, Australia