Uluwatu Map — Clifftop Paradise

Ancient temples, world-class surf, and breathtaking cliff views

See the Kecak fire dance at Uluwatu Temple at sunset.

About Uluwatu

Uluwatu sits on the southwestern tip of Bali's Bukit Peninsula, a dramatic limestone plateau featuring towering cliffs, hidden beaches, and some of the world's best surf breaks. The area is crowned by the ancient Uluwatu Temple, one of Bali's most important sea temples.

Once a secret spot known only to hardcore surfers, Uluwatu has evolved into a trendy destination with clifftop bars, boutique hotels, and beach clubs, while maintaining its raw natural beauty.

Top Spots in Uluwatu

Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) 11th-century sea temple perched on a 70m cliff. Don't miss the Kecak fire dance at sunset.
Padang Padang Beach Stunning beach accessed through a cave in the rocks, made famous by "Eat Pray Love".
Bingin Beach Beautiful clifftop beach popular with surfers and backpackers, with rustic warungs.
Single Fin Beach Club Legendary clifftop bar with epic sunset views and Sunday sessions.
Balangan Beach Long stretch of golden sand with consistent surf and panoramic cliff views.
Dreamland Beach White sand beach surrounded by limestone cliffs, great for surfing and swimming.

Best For

Surfing, sunset views, temple visits, clifftop beach clubs, photography, and romantic getaways.

The Kecak Dance at Uluwatu Temple

The Kecak fire dance is performed every evening in an open-air amphitheatre on the clifftop next to Uluwatu Temple, timed to coincide with sunset. Tickets are sold at the temple; arrive an hour early in peak season to get a good seat. The temple grounds are home to monkeys that snatch sunglasses, hats and phones, so keep belongings secure.

Beaches of the Bukit

Most Uluwatu beaches sit at the foot of limestone cliffs and are reached by steep staircases. Padang Padang, Bingin, Suluban and Thomas Beach are best at low to mid tide, when there is more sand. The reef breaks here are world-class but shallow, so surfing is for experienced riders; beginners should head to Balangan or Dreamland, or take a lesson.

Getting There and Around

The airport is 30 to 45 minutes away, but traffic on the main road can be slow in the evening.
Distances on the Bukit are long and public transport is limited; most visitors rent a scooter or use a driver.
Jimbaran Bay, with its seafood restaurants on the sand, is about 20 minutes north.

When to Visit

The dry season from about April to October brings offshore winds and the best surf on the Bukit's west-facing reefs. In the wet season the surf moves to the east coast and the area is quieter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time is the Kecak dance at Uluwatu?

It starts shortly before sunset every evening, usually around 6pm. Check the current time and buy tickets at the temple, arriving early in peak season.

Is Uluwatu good for beginner surfers?

Most Uluwatu breaks are shallow reef waves for experienced surfers. Beginners should try Dreamland or Balangan, or take a lesson with a local surf school.

How do I get to Uluwatu beaches?

Most beaches are reached by steep steps down the cliffs from parking areas. Wear sturdy sandals and bring water.

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