Padang Padang Beach in Bali: The Most Popular Beach Of The South (By a Local)

Padang Padang Beach in Bali has a unique charm that’s hard to beat. From the stunning Indian Ocean waves to the golden sand, this place is one of my favourite beaches in Uluwatu.

It’s not just another Bali beach; it’s an experience. With a vibe that brings together surfers, sunbathers, and travelers all seeking something special. Living close-by and having spent numerous days here, I can say this beach truly lives up to its reputation. Lets see why:

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Planning Your Visit to Padang Padang Beach

Visiting Padang Padang Beach in Bali is straightforward, but a little preparation can go a long way to make the most of your time. Its located on the Western end of Uluwatu, close to the Uluwatu Temple.

📍 Here is the google pin location

Entrance Fee and Amenities

There’s a small entrance fee of 15,000 IDR to access Padang Padang Beach. This fee helps maintain the beach and ensures it remains clean and welcoming for visitors.

Near the beach entrance, you’ll find several small shops selling essentials like water, snacks, and surf gear. You can also find local vendors offering cold drinks and beach essentials, perfect for a hot day under the Bali sun.

Best Time to Visit Padang Padang Beach

The dry season, from April to October, is the best time to visit Padang Padang Beach. During this period, the waves are ideal for surfing, and the weather is sunny and warm.

While Bali remains beautiful year-round, the dry season brings out the best of Padang Padang Beach’s beauty, making it easier to enjoy the beach, whether you’re here to surf or relax.

Travel Tips & Resources

Padang Padang Beach in Bali is easy to access, but here are a few practical tips to make your visit even smoother.

Parking and Beach Access

There’s a parking area near the entrance of Padang Padang Beach, with a small fee of 2,000 IDR for motorbikes and 3,000 IDR for cars. From the parking area, it’s a short walk down to the beach entrance, where you’ll need to pay a 15,000 IDR entrance fee.

📍 Here the Google Pin for parking

The walk down through the hollow rock can get narrow, so be prepared for a brief but memorable 120 steps descent.

Taking a Shower and Toilets

At the back of the beach are the showers and a toilet located. Simple but enough to get the sand and salt of your body.

From the Airport to Uluwatu’s Padang Padang Beach

Navigating from Ngurah Rai International Airport to Uluwatu is best done with an understanding of Bali’s unique road system. Originally designed with scooters in mind, many roads are narrow and challenging for cars, which often leads to traffic congestion.

Because of this, scooters remain one of the most efficient ways to explore Bali and uncover its hidden gems!

🛵 Here is where you can rent a scooter

If you’re visiting for a short time or prefer not to ride a scooter, consider hiring a private driver as a practical option. Just remember that traffic can be especially intense during peak season.

➡️ Want to see other beaches? 8 Best Beaches In Uluwatu, Bali Expert Guide

Discovering Padang Padang Beach

Padang Padang Beach, also known locally as Pantai Padang Padang, is located in the southern part of Bali, just a short drive from Uluwatu Temple. This beach first gained international fame through the iconic movie, “Eat Pray Love,” and since then, it’s become one of the most popular destinations on the island.

Entering Padang Padang Beach Through the Hollow Rock

The journey to Padang Padang Beach in Bali means you’ll descend a set of narrow 120 steps stairs that cut through a hollow rock, giving a sense of entering a secret paradise. It’s a fitting introduction to the beach’s intimate vibe, as you walk down with just enough space to squeeze through and reach the open shore.

The hollow rock entrance not only sets a magical tone but also hints at the natural beauty that awaits on the other side. Once you have reached the beach, you are immediately invited to the lively atmosphere that is on Pedang Pedang Beach and why so many people love to come here.

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Padang Padang

Padang Padang Beach has an irresistible charm. Unlike many beaches in Bali, it isn’t expansive but rather intimate, framed by towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters. When you arrive, the golden sand welcomes you, surrounded by uniquely shaped rock formations that offer shade and a striking contrast against the turquoise ocean.

The view is particularly mesmerizing at low tide when the shoreline expands and reveals small pools in the rocks where you can wade and relax.

💡 Local Tip: On the right side there is a small stairs up to a rock formation, which makes an amazing picture spot and also has the best viewpoint to watch the sunrise.

The Clear Waters and Soft Sand

One of my favorite things about Padang Padang Beach in Bali is how clear the water is. Even at a distance, you can see the sand and rocks underneath, and the waves gently lap against the shore, creating a peaceful rhythm.

The sand here is incredibly soft, making it perfect for sunbathing or simply lying down with a good book. Whether you’re here to relax or to capture the beauty on camera, this beach offers a picture-perfect setting.

The Surfing Scene: Padang Padang Left Famous Waves

Padang Padang Left is a famous surf spot on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, known for its powerful, fast-breaking left-hand waves that draw experienced surfers from around the world.

The waves here break over a shallow reef, creating hollow barrels that are perfect for thrilling rides, especially during the dry season when conditions are optimal.

It’s a spot that truly tests a surfer’s skill, as the reef break demands precision and timing to navigate the swift, challenging waves.

This surf break is ideal for advanced surfers who are comfortable with reef surfing and want to tackle some of Bali’s most intense waves. During low tide, the reef becomes more exposed, adding an extra level of difficulty but also enhancing the wave quality.

Best time to surf at Padang Padang Beach

The best time to surf Padang Padang Left is typically mid-morning when the trade winds start to blow, enhancing the wave’s barreling shape. Early mornings can be quieter, but mid-morning often brings ideal conditions with fewer surfers in the lineup and consistent 4-foot waves.

These conditions, especially around mid to high tide, make it a prime time for excellent rides. If the swell is smaller, Baby Padang offers more consistent waves, or you can head to Uluwatu for a larger, more powerful surf experience.

Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang: A Highlight for Surf Enthusiasts

Each year, the Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang draws some of the world’s best surfers to Bali. This high-stakes competition is held at Padang Padang Beach, often referred to simply as the Cup Padang Padang.

The waves here are known for their powerful and sometimes dangerous barrels, attracting only the most skilled surfers. Watching the competition is a spectacle in itself, as the surfers navigate the intense waves with a mix of skill and bravery.

Surfing for Beginners

For those who are new to surfing, Padang Padang Beach in Bali might look a bit too intimidating, however the right side of the beach, called Padang Padang Right or Baby Padang, is a great option.

However, nearby beaches such as Bingin Beach offer gentler waves and surf schools where beginners can start learning the basics.

There are several restaurants and small shops renting out surf gear. Depending on the season and availability, rental prices are between 50K to 100K IDR.

🏄 Tip: Complete beginners should first book a lesson and ask if the tide and waves are suitable for surfing.

Padang Padang Beach in Bali:
A Mix of Local Culture and Natural Beauty

Padang Padang Beach isn’t just about surfing and scenery; it also has a touch of local Bali culture. The beach is located close to several Balinese temples, including the renowned Uluwatu Temple, adding to the spiritual ambiance of the area.

Nearby Attractions and Temples

Uluwatu Temple is just a short drive from Padang Padang Beach, is a must-visit if you’re in the area. This temple is perched on a cliff with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, especially stunning at sunset.

Many visitors make it a point to visit both Padang Padang and Uluwatu Temple in a single day, experiencing Bali’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

🎟️ Get your tickets to the Uluwatu Temple with the legendary Fire Dance Show

Balinese Offerings on the Beach

As you stroll around Padang Padang, you might notice small offerings, or canang sari, placed on the rocks and sand by locals. These offerings are a part of Bali’s deeply spiritual roots, adding a unique cultural element to your visit. It’s a subtle yet powerful reminder of the island’s traditions, blending the sacred with the everyday.

Accomodation Recommendations

For those planning an extended stay, there are plenty of accommodation options near Padang Padang Beach. The Bukit Peninsula is home to a range of hotels and resorts, from luxurious stays to more budget-friendly options. Here are my favourites:

Suarga Padang Padang: This eco-conscious resort near Padang Padang Beach provides a luxurious yet sustainable experience with stunning ocean views. We love the Eco part of the hotel, combined with the luxury and lush environment.

PinkCoco Bali Ever been to a Pink Hotel? This charming, adults-only boutique hotel located near Padang Padang Beach, PinkCoco Bali offers vibrant decor and cozy rooms, perfect for couples or solo travelers who want a unique and colorful beachside retreat.

The Elementum This cozy boutique stay near Bingin Beach combines comfort and style, perfect for travelers like us who appreciate a unique, personal touch in a serene setting.

Village Bali Located just 200 meters from Impossible Beach in Uluwatu, Village Bali offers a serene retreat with a blend of traditional Balinese design and modern amenities.

Things to Do at Padang Padang Beach Beyond Surfing

While surfing might be the main attraction, there’s more to Padang Padang Beach than just catching waves. From swimming to people-watching, this beach offers a variety of activities to suit any visitor’s interests.

Swimming in the Calm Waters

Although Padang Padang Beach is famous for its waves, the area closer to the shore is calm and shallow, perfect for a refreshing swim. This makes it a great spot for those who want to cool off without venturing too far into the deeper, surfer-friendly parts of the ocean.

The water is crystal-clear, so you’ll be able to see the sandy and coral bottom with some small fish swimming around.

Snorkeling for Marine Life Enthusiasts

If you’re into snorkeling, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the underwater life near Padang Padang Beach. There won’t be much to see, but the water clarity, especially on calm days, makes it easy to see small fish darting around the rocks.

Beach Photography: Capturing Padang Padang’s Beauty

Padang Padang Beach in Bali is also a great place for photographers or instagrammers. The unique hollow rock entrance, vibrant ocean colors, and dynamic mix of cliffs and sandy shore provide beautiful scenes to capture and share on social media.

The cliffs surrounding the beach create natural shadows that are perfect for photography, especially in the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Make sure you head over to the right side where there is a stairs up to the rock formation, for that magical picture.

Enjoying Sunset at Padang Padang Beach

Sunset at Padang Padang Beach is a captivating experience. Although the beach faces mostly north, you have to walk over to the far right to catch the sunset, as the sky transforms into shades of orange, pink, and purple.

Locals and travelers gather along the sand or find a spot on the rocks to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, often accompanied by live music from a beachside band. The combination of cool beach vibes, rhythmic waves, and beautiful skies makes for a memorable evening.

Food, Drinks & Monkeys

After spending a few hours in the sun, you’re bound to get hungry. Thankfully, the area around Padang Padang Beach has plenty of options for food and refreshments.

Local Warungs and Cafés

One of the best parts of Bali’s beach culture is the abundance of local warungs, small family-owned eateries. Near Padang Padang, you’ll find a variety of these warungs serving Indonesian classics like Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Mie Goreng (fried noodles), and Sate (grilled meat skewers).

These places offer an authentic taste of Bali at affordable prices, with most dishes costing around 30,000 IDR – $2.

Fresh Coconuts and Smoothies

For a refreshing drink, try a fresh coconut or smoothie from one of the beach vendors. Sipping a cold coconut while looking out over the Indian Ocean is always a great experience.

You’ll also find fresh juices and smoothies made from tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and dragon fruit, great on a hot day.

✅ Safetywing is our favourite Insurance all year round, we never travel without.

The Padang Padang Monkeys

One thing we quickly learned about Padang Padang Beach is that you’re never truly alone, as the resident monkeys make sure of that! These cheeky little characters roam freely around the entrance and are often spotted on the rocks or even right down on the sand, boldly mingling with visitors.

Watching them is amusing, but they’re also notorious for their swift “snatch and grab” tactics. We’ve seen them swipe everything from snacks to sunglasses, so we had to keep a close eye on our belongings!

Getting up close to these monkeys is part of the Padang Padang experience, but we made sure to keep a bit of distance and didn’t feed them. They’re curious and clever, and we found it’s best to respect their space while enjoying the fun they bring to the beach atmosphere.

It’s all part of what makes Padang Padang unique. A beautiful beach with a touch of wild, unexpected adventure!

The Beauty of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula

Padang Padang Beach is just one of the many beautiful places on the Bukit Peninsula, a region in southern Bali known for its incredible beaches and cultural sites.

I would recommend spending at least 2 days if your traveling a week in Bali. The laidback surf vibe, the great bars and restaurants in the centre all cater to an incredible experience.

Nearby Beaches Worth Exploring

While Padang Padang is a must-visit, the Bukit Peninsula is home to other fantastic beaches, such as Bingin Beach and Dreamland Beach.

🌴 Here i have created a detailed guide on the best beaches in Uluwatu!

Bingin Beach

With its rustic charm and cliffside location, Bingin Beach is a peaceful escape from Bali’s busier beaches, offering some of the best views on the Bukit Peninsula. The journey involves a steep descent, but the stunning scenery makes every step worthwhile.

Known for its exposed reef pools and laid-back vibe, Bingin has become a favorite spot in Uluwatu, blending great intermediate to advanced surfing waves with ultimate relaxation.

The beach is lined with cozy cafés, guesthouses, and local spots like The Cashew Tree and Kelly’s, providing everything you need for a day of sun, surf, and exploration.

Dreamland Beach

Dreamland Beach is one of our favorite places in Uluwatu, with its expansive sandy shoreline, clear blue waters, and impressive cliffside views. Unlike some of Uluwatu’s smaller beaches, Dreamland offers plenty of space to relax, swim, and soak in the energy of the coast.

This is the perfect spot to catch a sunset, with the golden light casting a warm glow over the cliffs—an unforgettable view.

The surf here is ideal for all levels, with larger waves that challenge experienced surfers and gentler breaks perfect for beginners, who can find surf lessons right along the beach. Whether you’re here for the waves or just want to unwind, Dreamland has something for everyone.

Amenities make it an easy beach day, with local warungs, casual dining, and nearby upscale beach clubs like Klapa and El Kabron for a bit of luxury. The entry fee is around 10,000 IDR (about $0.70 USD), and parking is available for an extra charge.

Showers, restrooms, and board rentals complete the setup, making Dreamland a top choice for a relaxing beach day with amazing sunset views.

Activities around Uluwatu and Beyond

Just a short distance from Padang Padang Beach is Uluwatu, known for its famous Uluwatu Temple and impressive surf spots. The area around Uluwatu offers a blend of cultural and natural attractions, making it ideal for those who want to explore beyond the beach.

Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff with breathtaking views, is one of Bali’s most iconic sites, especially during sunset. Get your tickets for the Fire Dance in advance

📷 Want to go to the beautiful North of Bali? We loved this Instagram tour to Handara Gate and the Ulun Danu Beratan Temple.

Wrap Up, Why Padang Padang Beach in Bali is a Must Visit

For anyone planning a trip to Bali, Padang Padang Beach is a spot that you simply have to experience. Having been there countless times ourselves, we can say it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression. Squeezing through the narrow rock entrance to reach the soft sands and turquoise waters feels like stepping into a hidden paradise.

Although it gets busy, especially at peak times, the lively atmosphere adds to its charm and makes the experience even more vibrant.

Once you’re on the beach, the vibe is unforgettable. Picture this: a live band playing, a cocktail or cold beer in hand, and a laid-back crowd enjoying the moment—it’s the essence of Bali in one setting. Watching surfers tackle the waves is as mesmerizing as it is inspiring, adding to the beach’s unique, energetic feel.

While the sunsets aren’t quite direct due to its north-facing location on the main beach (reminder to walk to the far right), the view is still stunning and wraps up the day beautifully. Padang Padang isn’t just another beach; it’s an experience that captures the beauty, culture, and relaxed spirit of Bali.

Whether you’re there to surf, relax, or soak in the atmosphere, it’s a spot you’ll remember long after you leave.

Helpful Tools & Activities

✅ Short on Time? Consider hiring a private driver
✅ Here is a great 1 day tour to the Nusa Penida Island
✅ Don’t forget the incredible Fire Dance Show at Uluwatu Temple
✅ Mount Batur, 4WD Jeep Sunrise Experience with Photographer, a must see

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What do you think? Have you visited this Beach in Uluwatu?

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