Uluwatu is Bali's dramatic southern tip – where the jungle meets the sea in steep cliffs and the world's best waves break against the reef. If you want something different from Kuta and Seminyak, Uluwatu is the answer. Here you'll find the Kecak dance at sunset, the sacred Uluwatu temple, and a series of unforgettable cliff-edge restaurants and bars.
We can include Uluwatu as part of your tailor-made Bali trip. As Norwegian Bali experts, we know exactly which moments will stick with you.
Get free travel proposals →
What makes Uluwatu special?
While the rest of Bali is green and lush, Uluwatu is dry, dramatic, and raw. The peninsula juts into the Indian Ocean and is surrounded by cliffs 50–100 meters high. This is where you'll find Bali's most iconic sunsets, the best surf waves, and one of the island's holiest temples.
Uluwatu is not one place – it's a collection of beaches, villages, and cliffs spread across the Bukit Peninsula. Each area has its own character: Bingin for surfers, Padang Padang for backpackers, Pecatu for resort guests, and the clifftop for those who want sundowners with a view.
Key Experiences
Pura Luhur Uluwatu – the temple on the clifftop
Pura Luhur Uluwatu is one of Bali's six great temples and hangs dramatically over a 70-meter high cliff. The temple is sacred and active – the dress code is a sarong, provided at the entrance. The monkeys here are notorious for stealing sunglasses, phones, and bags, so keep your belongings inside your bag.
Kecak Dance at Sunset
The Kecak dance is performed in an outdoor amphitheater right on the cliff edge – with the sunset as a backdrop. Around 50–100 men sit in concentric circles and perform the rhythmic "cak" chant while the story from the Ramayana unfolds. It is one of the most intense and beautiful cultural experiences in Bali. The show usually starts at 6:00 PM and lasts about 45 minutes – arrive early for a good spot.
Plan your visit so that you arrive at the temple around 5:00 PM. This will give you time to explore in peace before the audience gathers for the Kecak dance.
Surfing – for the experienced
Uluwatu is on the world map for surfing – but this is not the place for beginners. The waves break over a shallow coral reef and can be challenging. Balangan Beach has a reef break and is only for experienced surfers. Would you rather watch the surfers without surfing yourself? Sit at the bar at Balangan, order a coconut, and enjoy the view. If you are a beginner, take a surf lesson in Seminyak instead, where the waves break over sand.
Sunset from the Cliffs
Uluwatu's sunsets are legendary. The sun dips straight into the Indian Ocean while the silhouettes of the surfers are etched against the sky. Best spots: Single Fin bar, El Kabron, the clifftop at Uluwatu Beach, or simply any path along the cliff edge.
Beaches in Uluwatu
Melasti Beach is one of Bali's most beautiful beaches — white sand, turquoise water, and dramatic cliffs on both sides. Less crowded than Kuta and Seminyak, and great for swimming and relaxing.
Balangan Beach is popular among surfers for its reef break. Perfect for watching surfing from the bar — calm atmosphere, some simple warungs, and a fantastic view.
Uluwatu Beach is known for legendary sunsets and good surfing. Descend via a long staircase in the cliffside. Most crowded around sunset — arrive early for a good spot.
Padang Padang Beach is a small and intimate beach gem hidden behind a cliff crevice — known from the movie "Eat Pray Love". Can get crowded, but is beautiful early in the morning.
Restaurants and Bars
Single Fin is Uluwatu's most iconic destination — a bar and restaurant right on the cliff edge with direct views of the surf waves. Order a drink, find a chair, and enjoy the sunset. Sundays are especially popular with live music. Arrive early for a view seat.
El Kabron is a Spanish-inspired restaurant and bar with one of the most dramatic locations in Bali — right on the cliff edge with endless ocean views. Perfect for a romantic dinner or sundowner. Book a table well in advance.
Sundays Beach Club is a perfect day at the beach — beach club with a pool, sun loungers, food, and drinks. Calm and relaxed atmosphere, not the wildest party, but a lovely day in the sun. Entrance fee gives credit for food and drinks.
Savaya (formerly Omnia) is Bali's most spectacular nightclub — terraced down into the cliff face with endless views. World-class DJs, an infinity pool, and a setting you won't forget. Can get crowded and expensive, but it's an experience worth having. Book well in advance.
Malini is a cozy and intimate restaurant right by the cliffs — a bit more quiet and personal than the big places. Perfect for a relaxed dinner with good food and great views.
Milk & Madu is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch. Great atmosphere, good coffee, and healthy food — perfect start to the day before you take your scooter out for the day's adventure.
Mana Uluwatu Restaurant & Bar — relaxed, stylish, and with good food. Great place for dinner or a drink after visiting the temple.
Hotels in Uluwatu
Uluwatu has something for everyone — from exclusive resorts to unique boutique hotels. The choice depends on what you want to be close to: cliffs and restaurants, the beach, or a quieter area a little further inland.
Radisson Blu Resort & Villas is one of Uluwatu's best resorts with a spectacular location, infinity pool, and full service. Perfect for those who want luxury and comfort without compromise.
Hilton Bali Resort is large and well-maintained with direct access to the cliffs. Great for families and couples who want all facilities in one place.
Bubble Hotel — do you sleep in a transparent bubble under the starry sky? You do here. A unique and memorable experience for those who want something completely different. Book early — capacity is limited.
Uluwatu is spread over a large area. Without a scooter or driver, there can be a lot of waiting for transport — consider what you want to be close to when choosing a hotel.
Vegard's Best Tips
Plan the temple and Kecak dance for the same afternoon — arrive at 5:00 PM, explore the temple, watch the dance at 6:00 PM, and then head straight to Single Fin for a sunset drink. It's one of Bali's best afternoons. Rent a scooter if you're comfortable with it — Uluwatu is spread out and it's by far the easiest way to get around. Keep a close eye on your belongings around the monkeys at the temple — they are smart and fast. And arrive early at Single Fin on Sundays for live music and the best view spot.
Practical Information about Uluwatu
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Denpasar | Approx. 1 hour by car |
| Recommended length of stay | 2–3 nights minimum |
| Best time | April–October (dry season) |
| Climate | 28–33°C, dry and windy |
| Transport | Scooter or private driver recommended |
| Surfing | Only for experienced — reef-break |
| Kecak Dance | Approx. 6:00 PM at Uluwatu temple |
We can include Uluwatu in your tailor-made Bali trip — with the right recommendations just for you.
Get free travel proposals →