Welcome to The Bukit – Bali’s clifftop peninsula that stretches from Uluwatu, Bingin and Padang Padang, to lovely Balangan and past…
Aaaah, Uluwatu – considered one of our absolute favorite neighbourhoods in Bali. Sitting excessive up on the clifftops of Bali’s southernmost peninsula, Uluwatu (AKA the Bukit) is the place you’ll discover hidden white-sand bays, rugged pure landscapes and legendary surf breaks, interrupted by a scattering of stylish seaside golf equipment, glamorous resorts and loads of epic cafes and eating places.
Stretching from Padang Padang and Bingin all the way in which to Balangan, Dreamland and the outskirts of Jimbaran, Uluwatu is an excellent mishmash of two lovely worlds: Mom Nature at her best possible, intertwined with a few of the most spectacular, architecturally-designed locations round. Yup, what was a surfer’s paradise solely has remodeled to change into an excellent mixture of native meets luxurious, the place shabby seaside shacks and laid-back vibes are simply minutes away from internationally-renowned six-star resorts.
It’s no shock then, that there’s loads of superior issues to do in Uluwatu and throughout The Bukit, from cultural journeys to considered one of Bali’s most spectacular temples, to watching the sundown in Bingin from an award-winning clifftop perch. So, for those who’re visiting The Bukit and in search of issues to do in Uluwatu and past, right here’s our checklist of the most effective points of interest, excursions and must-dos on this magnificent neighbourhood. Think about this the last word Bukit checklist…
AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN ULUWATU
From Padang Padang & Bingin to Balangan, Dreamland & past
1. Bay-watch at Uluwatu’s finest seashores
Bali’s black sand seashores within the north are undoubtedly spectacular, however for those who’re after picture-perfect powder-white sands with a dramatic backdrop of rugged cliffs and inexperienced foliage, then Uluwatu’s finest seashores are for you. Try the well-known caves at Suluban Seashore in Uluwatu, or take in the laid-back boho vibes on Bingin Seashore. Need to escape the crowds? Hunt for the multitude of hidden bays that fringe this seemingly untouched shoreline…
2. Eat at Uluwatu’s finest eating places
Bali’s meals scene as soon as revolved round Seminyak and Canggu, however Uluwatu is combating its method up the ranks with its ever-growing assortment of super-cute cafes, cliff-side nice diners and every little thing in between. Yup, Uluwatu’s finest eating places vary from family-friendly hangouts to award-winning culinary greats. Attempt Drifter for brekkie, The Cashew Tree for lunch, and Mana Uluwatu for a sundown dinner.
3. Go to Pura Luhur Uluwatu – the well-known cliff-top monkey temple
Arguably Bali’s most breathtaking temple with its ocean backdrop and dizzying perch, Pura Luhur Uluwatu is a must-visit for those who’re in search of superior and cultural issues to do in Uluwatu. Situated excessive above the crashing waves, this sacred temple was constructed for the spirits of the ocean within the tenth century, laced with historical structure, intricate sacred sculptures, and… lots of of monkeys. Yup, this well-liked spot is also referred to as the Uluwatu Monkey Temple, well-known for its winding cliff-edge pathways guarded by households of (generally pesky) macaques. Put together for one helluva Instagram alternative, and browse on for why you may’t miss a Kecak Fireplace Dance right here each night…
4. Spend the day at a cliff membership
With its spectacular clifftop perch above the crashing Indian Ocean, it comes as no shock that Uluwatu is the place you’ll discover a assortment of jaw-dropping cliff golf equipment designed to raise your island itineraries – actually. Select from ultra-chic locations like Savaya, El Kabron Cliff Membership and Ulu Cliffhouse, or relax with a chilly beer and cocktail on the easy-breezy cliff-bars that perch above Uluwatu seaside.
5. Catch stay bands and dance beneath the celebs
If stay music is your jam, you’ll need to head to Ulu Backyard for stay music and performances each night. Sitting within the coronary heart of Uluwatu, this breezy tropical backyard shifts with the rise and fall of the solar; by day, Ulu Backyard is a calming and healthful restaurant, then by night time, the amps are plugged in for a extra full of life ambiance at night time. Armi – the founding musician from Bali’s legendary reggae band, Ulu Roots – manages the agenda, bringing in native abilities for cultural talks, conventional Balinese dances, and naturally, superior stay music. Try the weekly schedule on Instagram, then swing by because the stage lights up for an evening of dancing beneath the celebs…
6. Surf Uluwatu’s most well-known breaks
Proper up there with the world’s best possible browsing locations, Uluwatu’s waves are excessive precedence on each board rider’s itinerary. Novices needn’t apply – the waves right here frequently barrel onto sharp reef with sturdy currents besides, attracting professionals (and wannabes) from around the globe. Studying to surf? Attempt close by Jimbaran as an alternative, or attempt Balangan or Dreamland throughout a smaller swell.
7. Watch a Kecak Fireplace Dance
Tradition vultures, for those who’d prefer to witness a conventional Balinese efficiency, then securing a seat at a panoramic Kecak Dance is an absolute should. Carried out by over 100 males in an open-air amphitheatre centred by plumes of fireplace, count on hypnotic chanting, dancing and dramatic actions below the night time’s sky as the story of a prince and a monkey king unfolds. You may witness this epic manufacturing at each Pura Luhur Uluwatu (Uluwatu Temple), or on the GWK Cultural Park, however our fave is on the temple, due to the epic cliffside backdrop. Performances begin at 6pm every single day, however you’ll need to arrive early to safe your ticket and get the most effective seat.
8. Cruise alongside the shoreline in a neighborhood fishing boat
There’s nothing fairly like crusing throughout the open ocean with the salty sea air in your hair and a chilly drink in-hand. Properly, Uluwatu is likely one of the finest locations to do precisely that, aboard a neighborhood fishing boat that skirts the cliffy shoreline, stopping at breathtaking bays and hidden coves for a refreshing splash. Our fave is the Black Pearl which units off from close by Jimbaran at round 4pm and cruises alongside the coast simply in time for sundown. It comes with a field filled with chilly beer and drinks, and boasts a fleet of native boats in differing sizes. Bookings are important.
9. Have your “Eat, Pray, Love” second on Padang Padang Seashore
Keep in mind when Julia Roberts fell head-over-flip-flops for a Brazilian hunk within the film “Eat, Pray, Love”? Properly, the seaside they frolicked on isn’t any aside from Padang Padang Seashore in Uluwatu. And likelihood is, you’ll fall in love right here too, not solely with the bronzed surfer crowds, however with the calm cove-like waters rolling off the intense white bay, framed by dramatic rock formations and bordered by world-class waves. It’s truly a comparatively small seaside, so the most effective time to go to is early within the morning round dawn when you may see Padang Padang in all its dazzling, pure glory – and earlier than the throng of tourists descend within the hope of recognizing Ms Roberts.
10. Discover the Bukit on a scooter
In contrast to Seminyak, Canggu or Ubud, The Bukit is unfold out over huge terrain, with large roads and loads of area to get misplaced. So to benefit from this sprawling panorama, why not hire a trusty two-wheeled whip and discover The Bukit by scooter? It’s the easiest way to seek out hidden bays and undiscovered clifftops – simply be sure you put on a helmet and don’t give it a go except you’ve obtained a world licence from again dwelling; the roads can appear lawless at instances, with bumps and potholes hidden on each bend…
11. Solar & sip at Uluwatu’s finest seaside golf equipment
Whereas Uluwatu could also be well-known for its clifftop perches, a handful of world-class seaside golf equipment have made a house on the intense white sands under, accessible by way of personal inclinators and winding roads. Our forever-fave in Uluwatu is the always-stunning Sundays Seashore Membership, or head barely out of city to Jimbaran to Sundara Seashore Membership. Need to tick off as many seaside golf equipment as you may in in the future? Head to Melasti Seashore the place you’ll discover three seaside golf equipment on only one stretch of sand.
12. Bliss out with a seaside therapeutic massage
Checking in to a prime Bali spa is an absolute should on any island itinerary, however in Uluwatu, you may take your ahh-inducing massages to the oceanfront with a beachside bliss sesh. At nearly any Uluwatu seaside, you’ll spot native girls wandering up and down the sands providing $5 – $10 massages straight in your sunbed. Or, you may up the luxe-factor by heading to a elaborate ocean-view resort spa.
13. Go luxe at a six-star resort
Whereas there are many charming bohemian-style stays on the seashores of Uluwatu, you’ll need to blow the funds for not less than one night time at one of many Bukit’s swanky accommodations. There are ultra-fancy all-villa clifftop resorts like Alila Villas Uluwatu and Bulgari Bali Resort in addition to fabulously fashionable accommodations like Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu. Butlers, tennis courts and jaw-dropping views? Sure puh-lease.
14. Store Bali-born manufacturers at Uluwatu’s finest boutiques
With its laid-back island vibes, it’s no surprise Uluwatu is dwelling to a whole assortment of humble boutiques promoting all your seaside necessities – most of that are made proper right here on the island. You’ll discover Bali-born bikinis from ELCE and FAE, island-grown ocean attire at Drifter (Uluwatu’s OG surf hub) and even homewares and island vacay necessities from Cove – a life-style boutique that slings boho beachwear, restricted version paintings and impeccably handcrafted treasures.
15. Dive into Uluwatu’s finest infinity swimming pools
In case you haven’t dipped right into a glittering infinity pool, did you even vacation in Bali? Fortunately for us, Uluwatu is dwelling to a few of Bali’s best possible infinity swimming pools, from the glass-bottom cliff-hanger at Oneeighty cliff membership, to the jaw-dropping and world-renowned infinity pool at Alila Villas Uluwatu that seems to defy gravity…
16. Feast on a seafood seaside BBQ
With a wealthy and full of life ocean throughout, Bali is the place it’s at for fresh-from-the-net seafood. Properly, proper right here in Uluwatu, you may watch native fishermen head out for the day’s catch, earlier than bringing ocean delicacies again to shore to prepare dinner up on a BBQ. Whereas close by Jimbaran is most well-known for its seafood sunsets, you can too settle in to a seaside BBQ on Bingin Seashore too, and the most effective bit is, this feature comes with out the loopy crowds. No must e book both – simply head down earlier than sundown and look out for the plastic tables and chairs being arrange on the sand.
17. Catch golden hour at Uluwatu’s finest sundown bars
Due to its elevated perch and west-facing vista, Uluwatu is in prime place for epic sundown viewing – and that’s earlier than we point out the world-class sundown bars and inventive cocktails that prime all of it off. For swanky sundrops, perch up at El Kabron, Ulu Cliffhouse or Mana Uluwatu, or hang around with the surfie crews at Single Fin.
18. Get moist with some wild water sports activities
With its aquatic playgrounds on each shoreline, Uluwatu is a mecca for each form of water sport below the Bali solar (and sea). Head to Sundays Seashore Membership for top-of-the-line stand-up paddle boarding spots, or head to neighbouring Nusa Dua to attempt jet snowboarding, banana boating and wake boarding. No matter aquatic path you favor, water sports activities in Bali is a should.
19. Stroll across the statue at GWK Cultural Park
Formally one of many largest monuments on the planet, the Garuda Wisna Kencana statue on the 60-hectare GWK Cultural Park has been dubbed essentially the most iconic landmark in Bali – nicely price ticking off your Uluwatu bucket checklist. The 122m-tall statue stands larger than each the Statue of Liberty and Christ the Redeemer, and it depicts the Hindu God Wisnu with the legendary eagle, Garuda – the nationwide emblem of Indonesia that symbolises independence. However this Balinese magnificence isn’t all you’ll expertise at GWK. You may also watch a Kecak Fireplace Dance right here each night (above), in addition to feast on Balinese delicacies, stroll across the gardens, and even catch one of many out of doors annual music festivals.
20. Spend the day poolside at a pool membership or lounge
We love Uluwatu’s seashores and cliff golf equipment, however generally, all we want is a refreshing pool, a bottle of bubbles, cozy cabanas and loads of lolling spots to absorb the solar away from the sand and sea. That’s why we love Uluwatu’s pool golf equipment and lounges. For boutique vibes and fab meals, head to Banana Lounge Bali, or for ocean views out yonder, attempt Mana Uluwatu and Suarga Padang Padang.
21. Sip epic Almond Milk Lattes at BGS
If you wish to know the place each locals and expats hangout pre-beach or post-surf – BGS is it. This surf retailer cum espresso store is Uluwatu’s group mecca for excellent beans, and their Almond Milk Latte comes with nothing wanting a cult following. Creamy and barely spiced with vanilla, only one sip and also you’ll perceive why BGS is an Uluwatu staple. And psst – they now have two places within the Bukit (one in Dreamland and the opposite in Uluwatu by Single Fin) in addition to one cool Canggu handle, too.
22. Occasion all night time at Single Fin Sundays
Suppose that Sunday is the day for relaxation? Suppose once more. In Uluwatu, Sunday night time is the largest and most raucous, due to the long-lasting Single Fin cliff bar that kick-started this unholy pattern with its cult-like Sunday session. Teetering atop the Uluwatu clifftops overlooking the ocean, there’s no higher place to get together ‘til the wee hours with stay music, huge crowds and the OG surf crews mingling amongst the plenty. Dancing toes are obligatory.
13. Keep on Bingin Seashore and get up to the waves
We’d by no means say no to a elaborate six-star resort, however there’s nothing fairly like staying on Bingin Seashore in a humble, bohemian-style boutique abode. Get up to the sounds of the waves and a salty sea breeze at oceanfront pads like The Solar & Surf Keep, or convey your folks and hire Bingin Cliff Home – an island-chic personal villa teetering above the sand…
24. Break a sweat at Uluwatu’s finest gyms
Gymnasium junkies, if browsing and beach-hopping doesn’t qualify as your WOD, head to considered one of Uluwatu’s finest gyms. Not solely will you get to work out amongst the island’s most babe’n our bodies (assume tanned surfer dudes and seaside babes aplenty), you’ll additionally get to pick out from an unlimited vary of lessons, day by day schedules and distinctive exercises. Head to Fondue for Pilates, Bambu Health for CrossFit, or Bali Coaching Centre for group Muay Thai and HIIT coaching (earlier than filling up with a post-workout feed at The Cashew Tree subsequent door!).
25. Downward canine at a yoga studio with a view
Ubud might be the epicentre for getting your “Om” on, however for those who prefer to pair your Asanas with ocean views and open-air shalas, then Uluwatu’s yoga scene is for you. Head to the gorgeous Morning Gentle yoga studio at Uluwatu Surf Villas for breezy lessons above the waves, or go native with sundown yoga each night on the cliffs at Balangan Seashore. Completely happy to journey? Right here’s our full checklist of Bali’s finest yoga studios throughout the island.
26. Make and paint ceramics at Jenggala
For each youngsters and adults, Jenggala in close by Jimbaran invitations you to create your personal ceramics, earlier than portray and adorning them and taking them dwelling as nice souvenirs or presents. Anybody can participate on this enjoyable little outing, irrespective of your age or inventive expertise. All ceramics are fired in Jenggala’s on-site kilns, taking 4 to 5 days from begin to end, so that you’ll must plan forward if you wish to accumulate your creation earlier than flying dwelling.
27. Eat like a neighborhood at a warung
Not so way back, Uluwatu’s meals scene consisted of principally native warungs (streetside eating places) moderately than cool cafes and bars. Fortunately, many of those conventional eateries nonetheless stay, serving up a few of the finest Indonesian and Balinese dishes round. For simply $3 – $4 you may feast on a mountain of scrumptious, genuine grub together with nasi goreng, babi guling, beef rendang, tempe manis and so.a lot.extra. Ask the locals for suggestions on their faves, or attempt tourist-friendly choices like Warung Native, Yeh Yehs, Cease Makan Yuk, and Warung Ganesha.
28. Sway to acoustic classes at The Cashew Tree
An area favorite, The Cashew Tree in Bingin is considered one of The Bukit’s most well-known cafes (and for good motive, too). However for those who’re into stay music with out the raucous get together ambiance, then head in on a Thursday night for an unplugged acoustic set from native and visiting bands. Seize a chilly beer or cocktail from the bar, mingle with new mates and sway beneath the celebs to the sleek sounds of guitar and vocals.
29. Graze all day on a connoisseur Sunday brunch
Bali’s brunch scene rivals a few of the finest on the planet, and down on the Bukit peninsula one can find a few of the island’s best possible spreads. In Uluwatu and in neighbouring Nusa Dua and Jimbaran, you may laze your Sunday away with a Champagne banquet, grazing on the island’s finest bottomless brunches and free-flow drinks, with ocean views and first-class service included. Try our prime picks for brunch in Bali for those who’re undecided the place to start out.
30. Battle it out with paint-balling
If spending a day operating round a makeshift battlefield and firing at your folks appears like your kinda enjoyable, then head over to the Jimbaran Hill Paintball Area with its bushes and bunkers. All gear is offered together with overalls to guard your garments, so that you solely must convey your personal sneakers – and a zeal for fight!
31. Have a bonfire on the seaside
For a magical expertise beneath the celebs, make your method down the cliff face to Sundays Seashore Membership the place a nightly bonfire crackles because the solar units. Toast marshmallows on the sand and settle in to the cozy beanbags – and whilst you’re at it, graze on the connoisseur menus and stellar cocktails too.
32. Increase your coronary heart charge!
On your hit of vacation adrenaline, signal as much as any variety of journey actions in Uluwatu, from Karting Star in Jimbaran (an out of doors go-kart race monitor with Honda Go-Karts) to paragliding above the cliffs of Pandawa or Nyang Nyang. There’s even locations to experience ATVs, with bumpy and winding tracks that take you nicely off the overwhelmed path.
Want extra concepts on issues to do in Uluwatu and past? Try our guides to Nusa Dua and Jimbaran too.
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