Things to do in Uluwatu

Uluwatu is a beautiful area in Bali, Indonesia, known for its stunning beaches, cliffs, and temples. Here are some things to do in Uluwatu:

1. Visit the Uluwatu Temple – The Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s most iconic temples, perched on top of a cliff overlooking the ocean. Visitors can explore the temple and take in the breathtaking views. Tour guides are available to provide information about the history and significance of the temple.
2. Watch the Kecak Dance – The Kecak Dance is a traditional Balinese dance performance that takes place at sunset near the Uluwatu Temple. Tour operators can arrange for visitors to attend the performance and provide transportation to and from the venue.
3. Surfing – Uluwatu is a surfer’s paradise, with some of the best waves in Bali. Surf schools and rental shops are available to provide surfing lessons and equipment.
4. Beaches – Uluwatu has several beautiful beaches, including Bingin Beach, Padang Padang Beach, and Dreamland Beach. Visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas from local vendors.
5. Yoga and Wellness – Uluwatu has a thriving yoga and wellness scene, with many yoga studios and wellness centers offering classes and services such as massages, meditation, and detox programs.
6. Water Sports – Uluwatu offers a range of water sports activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and stand-up paddleboarding. Tour operators can arrange for visitors to participate in these activities and provide all necessary equipment.
7. Cliff Jumping – Cliff jumping is a popular activity in Uluwatu, with several spots along the cliffs offering jumps of varying heights. Visitors can hire a guide to show them the best spots and ensure their safety.
8. Cruise along the coastline in a local fishing boat – There’s no experience that can compare to sailing on the open sea, feeling the salty air in your hair, and enjoying a refreshing cold beverage. Uluwatu is a fantastic location to enjoy this exact activity, on board a local fishing boat that follows the dramatic coastline, stopping at stunning bays and hidden coves for a rejuvenating swim. Our preferred option is the Black Pearl, which departs from Jimbaran around 4pm and travels along the coast in time for sunset. The boat is equipped with a cooler filled with cold drinks and beer, and offers a variety of local boats in different sizes. It is essential to book in advance.
9. Spend the day at a cliff club – It’s not shocking that Uluwatu is home to a range of incredible cliff clubs that are designed to take your island experiences to the next level, given its impressive location perched on a cliff overlooking the crashing Indian Ocean. You can select from high-end venues like Savaya and El Kabron Cliff Club, or you can relax with a cold beer and a cocktail at the laid-back Ulu Cliffhouse.
10. Explore the Bukit on a scooter – Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud are quite different from The Bukit in that The Bukit covers a vast area with wide roads and ample space to explore. To make the most of this extensive landscape, renting a reliable scooter is a fantastic option to explore The Bukit. This mode of transportation is perfect for discovering hidden bays and unexplored clifftops. However, it’s essential to take safety precautions, such as wearing a helmet, and only consider it if you have previous experience. The roads can be chaotic at times, with bumps and potholes hiding around every turn.
11. Stroll around the statue at GWK Cultural Park – The Garuda Wisna Kencana statue is one of the most significant monuments globally and is situated in the 60-hectare GWK Cultural Park, which is regarded as Bali’s most emblematic landmark, and it should undoubtedly be on your list of things to see in Uluwatu. The statue is 122 meters tall and is more massive than both the Statue of Liberty and Christ the Redeemer, depicting the Hindu God Wisnu with the mythical Garuda eagle, which is Indonesia’s national emblem that represents the country’s liberation from tyranny. However, visiting the GWK Cultural Park is not just about seeing this beautiful Balinese statue. You can also witness the Kecak Fire Dance every evening, enjoy Balinese cuisine, take a leisurely walk through the gardens, and even attend one of the annual outdoor music festivals.
12. Eat at Uluwatu’s best restaurants – The food culture in Bali used to revolve primarily around Seminyak and Canggu. However, Uluwatu is rapidly increasing its presence with its expanding selection of adorable cafes, exquisite cliff-side fine dining establishments, and everything in between. Uluwatu’s best eateries cater to a variety of tastes, from relaxed family-friendly spots to highly acclaimed culinary masterpieces. For breakfast, try Drifter, for lunch head to The Cashew Tree, and for dinner, visit Mana Uluwatu.
13. Have your “Eat, Pray, Love” moment on Padang Padang Beach – Do you recall the scene in the movie “Eat, Pray, Love” where Julia Roberts falls for a Brazilian guy while frolicking on the beach? That beach is none other than Padang Padang Beach in Uluwatu. And it’s highly probable that you’ll fall for it too, not only because of the tanned surfer crowds but also the tranquil cove-like waters, which flow from the bright white bay, encircled by dramatic rock formations and flanked by world-renowned waves. It’s a relatively small beach, so the ideal time to go is early in the morning around sunrise to witness Padang Padang’s stunning, natural splendor before the rush of visitors arrives in the hopes of catching a glimpse of Ms. Roberts.
14. Sun & sip at Uluwatu’s best beach clubs – Even though Uluwatu is famous for its clifftop locations, some top-rated beach clubs have taken up residence on the bright white sand below, which can be accessed through private inclinators, winding roads, and even crumbling stairways. Our all-time favorite in Uluwatu is the stunning Sundays Beach Club, or venture a bit further out to Sundara Beach Club in Jimbaran. If you want to visit as many beach clubs as possible in one day, head to Melasti Beach, where you’ll find TT Beach Club, Minoo Beach Club, and Palmilla Beach Club, all located along one stretch of sand.
15. Bliss out with a beach massage – It’s essential to visit a premium spa in Bali, and in Uluwatu, you can experience a relaxing beachfront massage session. Local women can be seen strolling along the shore at nearly every Uluwatu beach, offering massages for $5 to $10 directly on your sunbed. Alternatively, you may enhance your spa experience by going to an upscale beach spa, such as the open-air Spa Bales situated at Sundays Beach Club.
16. Stay on Bingin Beach and wake up to the waves – Although a luxurious six-star hotel is always tempting, nothing compares to spending a night at a modest, bohemian-style boutique accommodation on Bingin Beach. You can wake up to the soothing sounds of the waves and the refreshing sea air at waterfront accommodations like The Sun & Surf Stay. Alternatively, you can rent private villas such as Bingin Cliff House or Mahi Mahi Beach Shack with island-chic vibes, perched above the sand, and perfect for sharing with friends.
17. Feast on a seafood beach BBQ – Bali is renowned for its abundant and lively ocean, making it an ideal destination for indulging in fresh seafood. In Uluwatu, you can witness local fishermen depart for their daily catch and return to shore with ocean delicacies for a BBQ feast. While Jimbaran is well-known for its seafood sunsets, you can also enjoy a beach BBQ at Bingin Beach, which offers a more peaceful experience without the overwhelming crowds. You don’t need to make reservations, just arrive before sunset and keep an eye out for plastic tables and chairs being arranged on the sand.
18. Spend golden hour at Uluwatu’s best sunset bars – Uluwatu’s elevated location and west-facing view provide an excellent opportunity to witness spectacular sunsets. In addition to the breathtaking scenery, there are world-class sunset bars that serve creative cocktails to complete the experience. If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, you can visit El Kabron, Ulu Cliffhouse, or Mana Uluwatu for an upscale sunset experience. Alternatively, you can mingle with the surfing community at Single Fin.
19. Get wet with some wild water sports – Uluwatu is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with aquatic activities available on every beach. Sundays Beach Club is one of the best spots for stand-up paddle boarding and snorkelling, while Nusa Dua, located nearby, offers jet skiing, banana boating, and wakeboarding. No matter which water sport you prefer, experiencing water activities in Bali is a must.
20. Dive into Uluwatu’s best infinity pools – If you didn’t swim in a sparkling infinity pool during your Bali vacation, did you even go to Bali? Luckily, Uluwatu has some of the most impressive infinity pools in Bali, including the gravity-defying infinity pool at Alila Villas Uluwatu and the glass-bottomed cliffside pool at Oneeighty cliff club.
21. Shop Bali-born brands at Uluwatu’s best boutiques – The relaxed island atmosphere of Uluwatu has given rise to a range of simple, unpretentious boutiques selling all the necessary beach items, many of which are locally made. ELCE offers bikinis made in Bali, while Drifter, the original surf center in Uluwatu, features ocean apparel grown on the island. Cove, a lifestyle boutique, sells bohemian beachwear, limited-edition artwork, and beautifully handmade souvenirs for the home and island vacation essentials.
22. Sip epic Almond Milk Lattes at BGS – BGS is the ultimate destination for finding out where both locals and expats like to spend their time before or after going to the beach. This establishment is a combination of a surf store and a coffee shop, and it serves as the central meeting place for Uluwatu’s community due to its excellent coffee beans. Their Almond Milk Latte, which is slightly spiced with vanilla and has a creamy texture, has gained a loyal following. Once you take a sip, you’ll see why BGS is a must-visit spot in Uluwatu. Additionally, they now have two locations in the Bukit area, one in Dreamland and the other near Single Fin, as well as a trendy address in Canggu.
23. Party all night at Single Fin Sundays – If you believe that Sundays are meant for relaxation, you’re mistaken, especially in Uluwatu. Sunday nights in this area are known to be the wildest and most exciting, all thanks to the renowned Single Fin cliff bar, which started this popular tradition with its famous Sunday session. The bar is perched on the cliffs of Uluwatu, providing stunning ocean views, and is the perfect spot to enjoy live music and party until the early hours of the morning, surrounded by large crowds and original surf crews mingling among them. It’s necessary to have dancing shoes on if you plan to attend this event.
24. Go luxe at a six-star resort – Although there are many lovely and rustic-style accommodations available on Uluwatu’s beaches, it’s worth splurging on a luxurious hotel in Bukit for at least one night. There are several high-end hotels in the area, such as Alila Villas Uluwatu and The Ungasan Clifftop Resort, which are both ultra-fancy, all-villa resorts situated atop cliffs. Additionally, there are modern hotels like Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu and Bulgari Bali Resort that are equally impressive.
25. Break a sweat at Bali Training Centre – If you’re a fitness enthusiast who prefers activities like surfing and beach-hopping, you can still get your workout done at Bali Training Centre in Bingin, where you’ll be surrounded by attractive and fit people, including tanned surfer guys and beach girls. The center offers a daily schedule of group exercise sessions, such as Muay Thai, HIIT circuit training, Kettlebells, Core & Booty classes, attended by some of the most athletic bodies in Uluwatu. Plus, you can easily grab a post-workout meal at The Cashew Tree, which is conveniently located next door.
26. Downward dog at a yoga studio with a view – While Ubud is known as the center of spiritual activities, if you prefer doing yoga while enjoying breathtaking ocean views and practicing in open-air shalas, then Uluwatu is the place for you. Morning Light yoga studio at Uluwatu Surf Villas is a beautiful place for taking classes with the ocean breeze blowing in, or you can join the locals for sunset yoga on the cliffs of Balangan Beach. If you’re willing to travel, you can explore more yoga studios across Bali with our comprehensive list of the island’s best.
27. Make and paint ceramics at Jenggala – Jenggala, located in Jimbaran, offers a ceramic-making experience for both children and adults. Participants can create their own ceramics, and then decorate and paint them to make unique souvenirs or gifts. Everyone is welcome to join this enjoyable activity, regardless of their age or artistic abilities. All ceramics are fired in the kilns at Jenggala, which takes about four to five days to complete. Therefore, if you wish to bring your finished creation home with you, it is recommended to plan ahead and allow sufficient time before your flight.
28. Eat like a local at a roadside warung – Until recently, Uluwatu’s culinary offerings were limited to local warungs, rather than trendy cafes and bars. Fortunately, many of these traditional restaurants still exist and serve some of the best Indonesian and Balinese cuisine available. For as little as $2 to $3, you can indulge in a variety of delicious and authentic dishes, such as nasi goreng, babi guling, beef rendang, tempe manis, and much more. You can ask the locals for their recommendations or try popular tourist-friendly options like Yeh Yehs, Stop Makan Yuk, and Warung Ganesha.
29. Catch the acoustic sessions at The Cashew Tree – The Cashew Tree, located in Bingin, is a beloved spot among locals and one of the most renowned cafes in The Bukit for good reason. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy live music without a wild party atmosphere, then Thursdays are perfect for you. Local and visiting bands play unplugged acoustic sets, creating a cozy and intimate ambiance. You can order a refreshing beer or cocktail from the bar, mingle with new acquaintances, and sway to the soothing sounds of guitar and vocals beneath the starry night sky.
30. Graze all day on a gourmet Sunday brunch – Bali’s brunch culture is on par with some of the world’s finest, and some of the best offerings can be found on the Bukit peninsula. Uluwatu, Nusa Dua, and Jimbaran all have top-notch bottomless brunches with endless drinks and Champagne banquets, served with stunning ocean views and exceptional service that make it an ideal way to spend a lazy Sunday. If you’re unsure of where to begin, take a look at our top brunch picks in Bali.

Overall, Uluwatu offers a wide range of activities and services for visitors to enjoy, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Bali.