Uluwatu is a breathtaking destination in South Bali, known for its stunning clifftop views, world-famous surf spots, and tropical beaches.  

Here are the top 10 things to do in Uluwatu you shouldn't miss on your Bali vacation. 

Photo by: travelwithjosse

10 Top Things to Do in Uluwatu 

1. Explore the caves at Blue Point Beach 

Blue Point Beach is a popular surf spot due to its big waves. This white sandy tropical beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs and has unique caves to explore. The best time to visit is at low tide. You can walk to the right of the cove at low tide, which brings you to a beautiful hidden beach.  

Blue Point Beach is one of the few beaches in Bali that don’t charge an entrance fee, only a small parking fee. 

It will take around 10 minutes to walk down a set of stairs past tourist stores, cafes, and surfboard rental shops to reach the beach. 

Be aware that monkeys hang around the area, so always keep an eye on your belongings as they have a reputation for stealing things! 

Note that Blue Point Beach is not an ideal beach to swim at. If you walk through the caves, you will find yourself at Hidden Beach, a much calmer beach for swimming. 

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

2. Enjoy a drink with a view at Single Fin’s 

Single Fin is set in an epic location on a cliff overlooking the Uluwatu surf break.  

Here, you can listen to live music/DJs while eating delicious food and drinking unique cocktails in a relaxed vacation atmosphere.  

The best time to visit is close to sunset to enjoy the evening with a cocktail in hand and the most breathtaking ocean views! 

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

3. Visit a sea temple 

Uluwatu Temple is a famous sea temple perched on a cliff 70 meters above the ocean. Allow around 1-2 hours to walk around the temple grounds. 

Be careful of loose belongings such as sunglasses, phones, etc., as many monkeys are around. 

Modest clothing is required at temples; however, the entrance fee includes a sarong, scarf, and sash tie rental.

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

4. Watch the traditional Kecak Fire Dance Performance 

Kecak Dance Performance is held every day between 6 pm-7 pm at Uluwatu Temple. What can you expect? Traditional dance, a musical drama, a famous Balinese story, fire, beautiful costumes, and lots of chanting!  

Behind the dance performance, the sun sets over the ocean, creating an epic backdrop! 

It’s best to book your tickets on Klook in advance, especially in the busier months. 

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

5. Discover the third largest statue in the world at GWK Cultural Park 

The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue is 122 meters tall and can be seen from many places in Bali, including the International Airport. 

Apart from the GWK statue, there are other statues, restaurants, gift shops, and art exhibitions, so plan to spend at least a couple of hours here. 

Book tickets on Klook in advance! It's slightly cheaper on this website than purchasing at the venue. 

The admission fee does not include entering the GWK statue; this is an additional cost. 

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

6. Take in the views at Balangan Beach Viewpoint 

Balangan Cliff is the best spot to visit if you want breathtaking views of the beach and the stunning coastline. The cliffs here are home to some of Bali's most beautiful scenery, so it's no wonder this spot is often used for wedding ceremonies and photos! 

To get to the viewpoint, follow the dirt path to the right at the parking lot. The left path will take you down to the beach. 

There are a few different cliff viewpoints, so make sure to check them all out. Just be careful of loose and sharp rocks on the cliff edge. 

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

7. Spend the day at One Eighty Day Club 

One Eighty, located within The Edge Luxury Villa Resort, is a clifftop day club with panoramic ocean views. 

It's famous for its impressive glass-bottom sky pool that extends 5 metres over the edge of a 162-metre cliff above the ocean! The second pool is a series of cascading pools surrounded by beautiful gardens and flowers. 

You don't have to stay at The Edge to spend the day at One Eighty. You can purchase day passes that include food and beverage credit, amongst other things. Make sure to book your day pass in advance on their website. 

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

8. Check out the abandoned airplane and hike down to Nyang Nyang Beach 

There will be a small ticketing booth at the parking lot where you will need to give a donation to enter. 

To the left of the parking lot, you will see a restaurant. This local restaurant is donation-based, so you can choose how much you pay for your meals and place it in the donation box. The only prices on the menu are for bottled drinks, e.g. beer, mineral water, etc. 

Walk past the restaurant, and on the left is the abandoned airplane situated on the edge of a cliff above Nyang Nyang Beach. 

The trail's starting point down to Nyang Nyang Beach is close by. It’s a 15-20 minute strenuous trek down but worth it if you have time to spend there.  

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

9. Watch the sunset at Melasti Beach 

Melasti Beach is the perfect white sandy tropical beach to spend the day at and one of the best places to watch the sunset in Bali!  

Apart from the beach clubs along the beach, there are local restaurants nearby where you can buy cheap Indonesian meals from.  

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

10. Find Karang Boma Cliff for scenic views 

Karang Boma Cliff is located around the corner from Nyang Nyang Beach. You will need to walk about 5 - 10 minutes from the parking area through the fields to get to the viewpoint.  

Once you get to the viewpoint, be extremely careful when getting close to the edge and taking photos, as there are no railings to keep you from falling. 

This viewpoint offers a jaw-dropping view of the 100-metre-high limestone cliff and the tropical reef below.  

The best time to visit is at sunset. 

Photo by: alikainwanderlust

Uluwatu is home to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches! It's the place for surfers, beach lovers, and those who like to party. Uluwatu is perfect for all types of travelers, whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple.

PS: cover photo by arifrudiana.photo