These Are The Best Uluwatu Hotels: 10+ Incredible Places To Stay in Uluwatu
Headed to Uluwatu? Check out our Uluwatu Hotels guide, featuring the best luxury hotels, mid-range and boutique hotels, exceptional villas, and hostels in Uluwatu.
Whatever criteria exists for paradise, Uluwatu surely ticks all the boxes.
Seeped in sunsets and surrounded by waves, days spent here truly feel saturated in magic. Uluwatu is the gem of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula– sparkling with shades of ruby, emerald, and sapphire. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, savour the salty air and appreciate the little moments.
In Uluwatu, there are endless ocean views to appreciate, perfect waves to surf, and breathtaking beaches to enjoy. You’ll also find incredible eateries, cafes, and beach clubs. Although the Bukit is developing fast, Ulu remains an idyllic retreat from the commotion of Canggu and Kuta. Here, you can really have it all: beautiful vistas, beaches, and restaurants without massive crowds.
Our advice? Fill your cup, recharge your soul, and never miss a sunset. You can also check out our Uluwatu Guide for the best things to do in the area.
Of course, you also need somewhere to stay during your paradisiacal holiday in Uluwatu. That’s where this post comes in. We have put together the best Uluwatu hotels and accommodation options to make your trip planning just a little bit easier.
Plus, we cover the different areas in Uluwatu– where they are, the names of the beaches, where to eat, and where to stay.
Love our photos? They were all edited using our Sri Lanka Preset Pack, which you can purchase here!
BEST ULUWATU
HOTELS & VILLAS
OUR TOP PICK | Suarga Padang Padang
BEST VALUE | Rasasvada Cottages
TOP VILLA | The Backyard Bingin
BOUTIQUE BEAUTY | Grün Resort
WHERE TO STAY IN ULUWATU | THE BEST AREAS
BINGIN
Bingin Beach has a special place in our hearts. Our first visit in 2019 is a dreamy, sun-soaked, salt-kissed haze that we’ve never been able to forget. As far as we’re concerned, it’s the best place to stay in Uluwatu. You can read our complete guide to the paradise that is Bingin here.
Dreamland Beach, Cemongkak Beach, and Bingin Beach are all a part of the larger Bingin neighbourhood. It also encompasses the first cluster of restaurants that you pass as you enter Uluwatu.
Our favourite restaurants in Bingin Beach are
The Cashew Tree, Seed Bingin, and Kelly’s Warung.
PADANG PADANG
Padang Padang, named for the incredible Padang Padang surf break, is adjacent to Bingin. Thomas Beach is also included in this neighbourhood.
Uluwatu’s main thoroughfare, Jalan Labuansait, cuts through Padang Padang. This road is lined with some of the best restaurants, cafes, bars, warungs, and shops on the peninsula.
Basically, Padang Padang is where a lot of the action happens in Ulu.
So although we love Bingin for its calm and peaceful atmosphere, we’ll understand if you choose to stay in Padang Padang instead. Especially if you’re opting to forgo renting a motorbike on your trip! If you stay in the middle of Padang Padang off Jl. Labuansait, you’ll be back to walk to get your food and coffee.
Wondering where to eat in Padang Padang? The Loft, Drifter Cafe & Gallery, Habitat, Ours, and Krishna’s Kitchen are our top picks.
PLAN | Plan your trip to Padang Padang with our guide
SULUBAN
Suluban is the place to soak in the sunset, surf impeccable waves, drink ice-cold Bintangs, and, basically, live your best life. The vibes are high here.
Suluban is famous for Suluban Beach, Blue Point Beach, and the restaurant & bar, Single Fin. The latter sits on the cliff overlooking Blue Point, the endless cerulean horizon, and two warungs perched on rock pillars. It’s a famous sight- and the perfect place to watch the setting sun.
Besides grabbing a bite and drink at Single Fin, you should also check out Mana Restaurant & Bar, and Three Steps Coffee. BGS is a great place for coffee, located just before the turnoff to Single Fin.
Uluwatu Temple is also located in the neighbourhood of Suluban.
NYANG NYANG
Nyang Nyang encompasses part of the Southwest Bukit Peninsula. It’s quiet, remote, and far less populated with people and businesses. If you’re going to stay in this area, you should have your own transport. Central Uluwatu is 15 - 30 minutes away by motorbike.
Although you have to scoot down a very steep access road to get here, Nyang Nyang Beach is one of our favourites in the Bukit. The road can feel a bit hairy after rainfall so just be aware. If you’re two people on a motorbike with modest CC, you will have to floor it to get past the steepest hairpin corner. The pristine white beach is worth it though.
UNGASAN
Ungasan is even more remote than Nyang Nyang, situated far away from the most popular (and populated) part of Uluwatu. T
his is where you’ll find some of the peninsula’s most exclusive resorts and luxurious beach clubs. Savaya, for example. It’s one of Bali’s most iconic clubs, right on the ocean.
BALANGAN
Balagan is the area that borders northeast Bingin. It’s just a little bit out of the way and, consequently, not nearly as built up as its neighbour. However, it does hold one of Uluwatu’s most famous sites: Balagan Viewpoint.
Every evening, dozens of tourists perch along the viewpoint’s steep cliffs with their eyes fixed eagerly on the horizon and its sinking sun. It’s very popular, so we recommend getting there a bit early to pick the perfect spot.
Balagan Viewpoint overlooks Balagan Beach (another gem) and Kubu Beach.
THE BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN ULUWATU
SIX SENSES ULUWATU
Six Senses perches on the cliff along the Bukit Peninsula’s southern coast. This tiered luxury resort boasts a spectacular infinity pool with dazzling sunset views. Additionally, it has spa and wellness facilities, including a sauna, yoga pavilion (with A/C), and a 24-hour fitness centre.
Available are an assortment of suites, private villas with pools, and penthouses with pools. The units are all elegantly designed with sophisticated furnishings and decor. Plus, the ocean views are incredible.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oceanfront in Nyang Nyang
BOOK | SIX SENSES ULUWATU
ANANTARA RESORT
Anantara Resort is a striking, terraced property overlooking the ocean near Padang Padang Beach. Every suite, villa, and penthouse offers a breathtaking ocean view and, sometimes, a private jacuzzi.
There are 73 units, an outdoor infinity pool, a fitness centre, a spa, and restaurants. Plus, there’s even a clifftop wedding chapel if those spectacular sunsets put you in a romantic mood.
The rooms feature contemporary interior design with a natural colour palette and refined furnishings. Choose Anantara to discover the meaning of luxury!
THE DETAILS
Where | Oceanfront in Padang Padang
Book | ANANTARA RESORT
ALILA VILLAS ULUWATU
This eco-designed resort is a private corner of paradise. Located in the remote area of the Bukit Peninsula, Ungasan, Alila Villas is a luxurious hotel surrounded by breathtaking coastal vistas. Plus, their commitment to environmental sustainability adds to this stunning experience.
The property has an infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean, a restaurant, a fitness centre (including a 24-hour gym, yoga and pilates studio, and spa), and an art gallery with modern Indonesian artwork.
The one and three-bedroom villas blend clean lines, contemporary sensibilities, and local Balinese style. Every interior is gorgeous yet comfortable. All come with a private pool.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oceanfront in Ungasan
BOOK | ALILA VILLAS ULUWATU
GRÜN RESORT ULUWATU
Grün Resort in Uluwatu promises a unique, remarkable, and unforgettable experience. You can choose to stay in one of their luxurious tree houses or cosy studios in central Padang Padang.
Each residency features natural textures, light shades, and abundant natural light from the walls of windows. There are one-bedroom and two-bedroom units available.
On the property, there is also a newly opened restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool, and lush garden.
THE DETAILS
Where | Padang Padang, 1.5km from the beach
Book | GRÜN RESORT
SUARGA PADANG PADANG
Suarga Padang Padang is truly stunning. This is a sustainable boutique resort that combines modern luxury with minimal environmental impact. The rooms and villas are examples of tropical architecture with vaulted ceilings and open-air design. Every interior is simple yet aesthetically rich with vibrant textures, subdued colours, and a wide variety of Indonesian pieces.
In addition, the resort has not one- but two outdoor pools. There are ample terraces, a restaurant, a lounge bar, and sweeping panoramic ocean views.
As if it couldn’t get any better, Suarga Padang Padang uses renewable energy. Perfect for eco-conscious travellers looking for accommodation in Uluwatu!
THE DETAILS
Where | Oceanfront in Padang Padang
Book | SUARGA PADANG PADANG
MU BUNGALOWS
Sitting oceanside in Bingin, Mu Bungalows is a collection of intimate, exotic, and luxurious residences. The complex has one, two, three, four, and five-bedroom bungalows and villas equipped with kitchens and living spaces.
Furthermore, the units were constructed using eco-friendly and organic recycled materials. They feature traditional Balinese architecture (including a “Bale” for outdoor lounging) with lots of wood, mosquito nettings, and tall ceilings.
There is an outdoor pool, restaurant and bar, spa, and daily yoga classes. The grounds, perched on the cliffs that define Uluwatu’s coastline, are a true oasis.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oceanfront in Bingin
Book | MU BUNGALOWS
GYPSEA BALI
Hilariously, many establishments called “Gypsea” have sprung up across Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia. Of course, they’re named after the OG Aussie travel influencer who calls Bali home.
This Gypsea is a luxury hotel in Uluwatu and the complex includes one-bedroom bungalows, private pool bungalows, studios (with a private pool), and two-bedroom villas (these also have their own pool, of course).
The interiors are sophisticated and luxurious. White walls and floors are decorated with warm rugs, natural accents, and minimalist furnishings. Everything has been thoughtfully and intentionally designed.
The hotel also has a restaurant, outdoor pool, and daily housekeeping.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 1.2km from the ocean
Book | GYPSEA BALI
LE CLIFF BALI
Le Cliff is a beachy, fun, and lively luxury accommodation option in Uluwatu. Clinging to the cliff above Padang Padang, the rooms and apartments offer outstanding ocean views. The unique interiors feature pops of eye-catching colours, textures, and boho decorations. Some rooms even have net beds hanging over the cliff. You will instantly be in vacation mode!
This 4-star hotel also has a restaurant. While there’s no pool, Padang Padang Beach with its incredible surfing is practically on your doorstep.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oceanfront in Padang Padang
Book | LE CLIFF BALI
THE ASA MAIA | ADULTS ONLY
The Asa Maia is an adults-only luxurious resort that wants to help you reconnect, recharge, and rebalance. Wellness is at the foundation of everything that Asa Maia does. They offer breathwork sessions, contrast therapy, and yoga classes. In addition, there’s a fitness centre, spa, pool, and organic restaurant.
Their ten guest suites are “gladaks,” hand-hewn vernacular Javanese homes that were transported from Java. Luxurious interiors with rich textures and decadent hues offer a truly remarkable experience.
THE DETAILS
Where | Padang Padang, 100m from the ocean
Book | THE ASA MAIA - ADULTS ONLY
THE BEST ULUWATU MID-RANGE HOTELS
RASASVADA COTTAGES
Rasasvada Cottages is a laidback hotel close to everything good in Bingin (just three minutes away from Bingin Beach), and the hotel we stayed for our time in Uluwatu.
The traditional Balinese-style bungalows aren’t flashy, but they’re just right, featuring tall ceilings, dark wood interiors, and delightful outdoor bathrooms. Choose from a double-bed bungalow or a deluxe family room (two single beds plus an extra large double bed).
The Cottages are enveloped by a delightful dense garden making you feel like you’re in an oasis in the heart of the Bukit. The complimentary breakfast is wonderful, and the staff go above and beyond to make your stay amazing. There is an outdoor pool featuring many toys and games for kids, as well as a shared lounge area for guests.
Rasasvada Cottages is somewhere we can’t recommend highly enough, especially for families like us.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 200m from the ocean
Book | RASASVADA COTTAGES
SAL SECRET SPOT
Sal Secret Spot is one of the most popular resorts in Bingin, an intimate boutique stay with a luxe pool, restaurant, and spa.
There’s a pretty wide variety in the style of accommodation here. Some apartments feel very luxurious with eclectic furnishings, textured stonework, and elegant linens. Others are far more simple - basic even. Every unit, however, is bright, white, and luminous.
If you’re visiting Uluwatu for the surf, the beach is only a few hundred metres away from Sal Secret Spot.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 350m from the ocean
Book | SAL SECRET SPOT
DREAMSEA BALI
Dreamsea Bali, also known as Dreamsea Surf Camp, is a stunning oceanside accommodation in Padang Padang.
The rooms are heavenly. Off-white walls, pale grey wooden floors, lightly coloured linens, natural textures, and wicker furniture create a dreamy backdrop for your surf retreat.
There are family rooms, larger suites, smaller rooms, and twin dorms. You will also find a Tiki Bar, yoga classes, and a semi-private beach.
This is truly a taste of glamorous tropical life.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oceanfront in Padang Padang
Book | DREAMSEA BALI
ULUWATU COTTAGES PADANG PADANG
This property hugs the stunning cliffs of Padang Padang. Surrounded by lush greenery, Uluwatu Cottages feels like a paradisiacal retreat from the business of the world.
Each charming cottage incorporates natural elements like wooden furnishings, thatched roofs, and open-air living. Choose from a view of the gardens, outdoor infinity pool, or ocean.
There are twin, double, and suite rooms available.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oceanfront in Padang Padang
Book | ULUWATU COTTAGES PADANG PADANG
THE ELEMENTUM
The Elementum is an incredible Uluwatu hotel, situated between Dreamland Beach and Bingin Beach. They provide boutique accommodation, ideal for couples and honeymooners.
Each room is loosely inspired by one of the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. They’re beautifully designed with elegant textures, refined furnishings, and thoughtful layouts.
In addition, there is an outdoor pool, restaurant, bar, and spa. There are 9 rooms in total. The Elementum also strives to minimise its carbon footprint through a variety of sustainability initiatives, including no plastic amenities! You can read more on their website.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 300m from Dreamland Beach
Book | THE ELEMENTUM
BINGIN LODGE
Bingin Lodge contains eighteen (adorable) peak-roofed wooden huts, which surround the outdoor pool. Refined Balinese design creates a comfortable and appealing atmosphere, perfect for your new home away from home. Between the ornamental crafts, minimalist style, and verdurous garden, you won’t want to leave!
This Uluwatu accommodation has a large shared pool, restaurant, and billiards.
Welcome to living in paradise!
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 1.2km from Bingin Beach
Book | BINGIN LODGE
MULE MATU TROPICAL STAY
Mule Malu Tropical Stay is a picturesque oasis that you will never want to leave. The lush grounds contain a very Instagrammable saltwater pool, an outdoor cafe, and eleven cosy rooms. Mediterranean design and local materials come together to get a delightful holiday experience.
Plus, Mule Malu is committed to sustainability. They are (almost) an entirely plastic-free property! Their cafe also sells mostly organic seasonable ingredients and the property uses solar water heating.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 750m from Bingin Beach
Book | MULE MATU TROPICAL STAY
LA RESERVA BALANGAN
La Reserva is a mid-range accommodation option in Balangan, about 700 metres from Balangan Beach. This style of villa is very common in Bali– thatched roofs, peaked ceilings, and abundant wood and wicker. You will immediately feel at home in these comfortable rooms.
One and two-bedroom villas are available, some of which have a kitchen and dining area. There’s also a large outdoor pool.
THE DETAILS
Where | Balangan, 700m from the ocean
Book | LA RESERVA BALANGAN
THE BEST ULUWATU VILLAS
THE BACKYARD BINGIN
The Backyard Bingin is a large, seven-bedroom villa with a fully equipped kitchen, dining room, home theatre, billiards room, and swimming pool.
It’s surrounded by a pleasant garden and even promises ocean views through the foliage. The rooms are light and airy with large windows, traditional furnishings, and a comfortable atmosphere.
Yoga classes are offered on-site, as well as American and vegan breakfasts. There’s room for picnics, BBQs, and long afternoons soaking in that Uluwatu sunshine! It’s the perfect place to stay for groups of friends and families.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 600m from Bingin Beach
Book | THE BACKYARD BINGIN
DREAM VIEW VILLA
Dream View Villa is a spacious yet simply designed villa with bohemian accents.
The rooms are airy, expansive, and bright thanks to the open-concept layout. You’ll find a roomy kitchen, cosy lounge, outdoor dining area, and five bedrooms with double and single beds. The outdoor terrace, swimming pool, and small pavilions create a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere.
Although not right on the water, you can catch a glimpse of the ocean from the balcony. Dreamland Beach, however, is very close.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 200m from Dreamland Beach
Book | DREAM VIEW VILLA
MAHI MAHI VILLAS
Mahi Mahi is a complex of five boutique private villas and suites. There are three suites, each contained in a private converted Joglo- a traditional Indonesian house.
The four-bedroom villa is just 200 metres from the cliff and has its own private saltwater pool. Lastly, the three-bedroom Beach Shack villa provides spectacular, uninterrupted ocean views.
The spaces are modern and oozing with luxury. Between the sunken seating areas, glistening white adobe terraces, outdoor tubs, and delightful boho accents, you’re in for a real treat.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 400m from Bingin Beach
Book | MAHI MAHI VILLAS
BINGIN PURA VIDA VILLAS
Bingin Pura Vida Villas is a three-villa complex, complete with an outdoor pool and a pretty garden. All units have a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and living. One of the villas also comes with its own private pool.
There are one-bedroom and two-bedroom options available. The interiors are modest but comfortable with lots of natural light and Indonesian paintings and sculptures.
Plus, the villas are located in the middle of Bingin with many restaurant and cafe options nearby.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 1.2km from Bingin Beach
Book | BINGIN PURA VIDA VILLAS
OCEANNA VILLA
Although not directly on the ocean, Oceanna Villas do offer breathtaking panoramic views of the nearby sea and surrounding lush jungle.
The infinity pool is the dreamiest place to watch the sunset. There are several boutique ensuite rooms to choose from, as well as a three-bedroom villa.
Everything about Oceanna is beautiful. The interiors are elegantly minimalist, with rich grey textures and clean black accents. Most of the rooms come with an ocean view.
THE DETAILS
Where | Padang Padang, 2km from Padang Padang Beach
Book | OCEANNA VILLA
THE BEST BUDGET HOTELS + HOSTELS IN ULUWATU
MILO’S HOME
Milo’s Home is a collection of Balineses-style bungalows with rounded, thatched roofs and lots of bamboo. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, yet fairly basic. Breakfast is served daily from the on-site restaurant.
In addition to the international restaurant, there’s also a refreshing pool and terrace. Sights of the Indian Ocean can be glimpsed through the foliage.
Their standard bungalows with a partial sea view are $100 per night, while the larger family bungalows go for $230 nightly.
THE DETAILS
Where | Balangan, 500m from the ocean
Book | MILO’S HOME
NYANG - NYANG BUNGALOWS
Nyang - Nyang Bungalows are located a few kilometres from Uluwatu's main hub. Uluwatu Temple is closeby, as is Nyang Nyang Beach.
The quaint bungalows are typical of Indonesia - modest in size and possessing wooden interiors. There are also modern rooms that are slightly more spacious and brighter. All of the units surround a lovely outdoor swimming pool.
There’s also a garden and sun terrace.
THE DETAILS
Where | Nyang Nyang, 600m from Nyang Nyang Beach
Book | NYANG NYANG BUNGALOWS
ARUMANIS HOMESTAY
Arumanis Homestay is your typical Balinese homestay right down to the wall paintings and throw pillows. Located just off Uluwatu’s main thoroughfare, Jalan Labuansait, you’re within easy walking distance of Bingin’s delicious cafes and restaurants. Padang Padang Beach is just over a kilometre away.
The property has a large and pleasant garden area, which can be admired from your terrace. A room costs around $98 USD per night.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 500m from Impossible Beach
Book | ARUMANIS HOMESTAY
BINGIN INN
An affordable hotel in the heart of Bingin, Bingin Inn is located just a 10-minute walk from the surf Beach.
The hotel is surrounded by lush greenery with vines cascading down the facade and tropical plants populating the garden. Sitting poolside, it feels like a tropical oasis- but at a great price!
Rooms at the Bingin Inn cost $50 USD and are fully air-conditioned. There’s also a Western restaurant on site.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bingin, 500m from Bingin Beach
Book | BINGIN INN
BALANGAN INN SURF HOMESTAY
Balangan Inn Surf Homestay is a modern, tidy, budget accommodation in Uluwatu. Unlike most other places in its price range, it has an outdoor pool.
However, this homestay is barely in Balangan. The ocean, including Balangan Beach, is 2.5 kilometres away. You’re not really close to anything, so you will need a scooter if you stay here.
Although at $20 for a bed in a dormitory or $30 for a private room, the price is right. Some rooms lack air conditioning (they have a fan instead), so check before you book.
THE DETAILS
Where | Balangan, 2.5km from Balangan Beach
Book | BALANGAN INN SURF HOMESTAY
ULUWATU TRIP PLANNING ESSENTIALS
WHAT TO DO IN ULUWATU
Uluwatu, or Ulu to those that know it well, is a renowned surfing destination and you are sure to see dozens of surfers speckled across surf breaks from dawn until dusk.
But Ulu is more than just a world-class surf spot. Even if you’ve never stood on a board in your life, you will find no shortage of things to love about Uluwatu.
Delightful cafes? Check. Incredible beaches? Ulu has plenty. Wonderful winding jungle roads to explore? Get scootin’! Cultural experiences and sights to see? You bet.
Find all the best things to do in Uluwatu with our guide.
HOW LONG SHOULD YOU SPEND IN ULUWATU
Ulu is a wonderful little spot and we wholeheartedly believe it deserves more than a day of your time, but we understand that’s not always possible.
A weekend provides more opportunities to soak in this beautiful surf town and explore the surrounding peninsula. You can take it slower, savouring every salty wave and tasty bite from the many fantastic restaurants.
For digital nomads who prefer to take their sweet, sweet time (like us), you can settle into a delightful rhythm here in Ulu. Yoga, surf, cafe, work, scooter… it’s a good life!
If you’re a passionate surfer, on the other hand, you may never want to leave.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ULUWATU
The best time to visit Uluwatu is between April - August, during the dry season.
Most tourists - surfers or not - come to Uluwatu between June and August when the weather is driest and slightly less hot, so it can be busy during this time.
June, July, and August are also considered the best months for surfing. However, the water temperatures reach their coldest during August, dipping to a frigid 26 degrees C.
However, travelling in the off-season is one way to combat over-tourism (and enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds). April and September are some of the best times to visit Uluwatu for these reasons.
Keep in mind that it can start raining very heavily in October.
HOW TO GET TO ULUWATU
Uluwatu is located on Bali’s southernmost tip, the Bukit Peninsula. If you’re hoping to visit this charming surf town, you have a few transportation choices.
//FROM THE AIRPORT
Travellers flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport can choose between a taxi, a Gojek or Grab car (essentially Indonesian Uber), or a scooter-hailing service.
The airport may only be 20 kilometres from Uluwatu, but traffic is often intense going through Kuta and Jimbaran. Consequently, the journey can take anywhere from 20 minutes to well over an hour.
Taking a Gojek or Grab car costs less than a normal taxi and should only set you back 200,000 IDR - 300,000 IDR depending on the time of day. Alternatively, you can hail a motorbike with Gojek or Grab to take you to Uluwatu- provided you don’t have that many bags! Motorbikes are always the cheapest option.
// FROM ELSEWHERE IN BALI
Already in Bali? No problem. You basically have the same options. Either you can take a taxi, order a Gojek or Grab car, or hail a motorbike via the Gojek or Grab apps.
Taxis are expensive but if you choose to go this route, Bluebird has the best reputation for fair pricing.
Of course, you may have your own scooter! Scooters are the most common (and frankly, most sensible) transportation method in Bali. Tourists and locals alike navigate Bali’s narrow streets on two speedy wheels, whizzing around congestion and flowing with packs of fellow scooters.
If you are already renting a scooter in Bali, simply drive yourself to Uluwatu.
HOW TO GET AROUND BALI
We’ve written all about how to get around Bali, which you can read about here.
Alternatively, here’s a quick overview:
// SCOOTER RENTAL
There is no better way to get around Bali than on a motorbike. Not only is it a better experience, but it’s also more practical. It’s easy to find a scooter rental in Bali. Some hotels, hostels, and homestays rent scooters to their guests.
Uluwatu is one of the more expensive towns when it comes to scooter rentals. 100,000 IDR per day is a common price. However, you can save a bit of money by renting from the nearby town of Jimbaran. Motorbike rentals there cost 70,000 IDR per day or 420,000 IDR per week.
// GOJEK OR GRAB
Gojek or Grab are the Uber and Lyft of Indonesia. You can order cars or motorbikes via their respective apps. It’s a cheap and easy way to get around towns, or even travel from town-to-town. Make sure you set up the apps before you leave for Bali though- you need a phone number to make an account.
// TAXI
Bluebird is the largest taxi service in Bali. It also has the best reputation for quality service and fair pricing. That being said, it’s still the most expensive option.
// PRIVATE DRIVER
Hiring a private driver in Bali is a great way to build a relationship with a local. It isn’t as economical as Gojek or Grab, but 100% of your rupiah goes directly to the driver and not a large corporation. The best way to find a private driver is through personal recommendations or by getting the personal WhatsApp of a Gojek or Grab driver that you connect with.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL IN BALI
Responsible, sustainable travel is what we’re all about here at TCW HQ, and this is especially true when we travel to places suffering from climate change and plastic pollution, such as Bali.
DON’T BUY BOTTLED DRINKS | Please, for the love of the ocean: DO NOT BUY SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BOTTLES! When you see a bunch of plastic bottles bob past you in the open sea, you’ll understand why. Buy one of these amazing bottles instead
USE LESS WATER | Unsurprisingly, the Greek Islands suffer from extreme water shortages, particularly during the peak tourist season. To help reduce the pressure on water supplies, keep your water usage to a minimum. We know that’s hard to do on holidays, but quick showers, and turning the tap off when brushing your teeth, cleaning etc. really help
TRAVEL DURING SHOULDER SEASON | Shoulder season is the time before and after the peak season when things are quieter, cheaper, and more enjoyable (especially in the Med!). Travel then to reduce over-tourism, and extend the season for local operators
OCEAN-FRIENDLY TOILETRIES | Everything that goes down the boat drain ends up in the ocean, try and make sure all your toiletries, sunscreen, and shampoo is as ocean-friendly as possible! Solid bars are a great place to start (see below to buy some eco-friendly toiletries).
DO YOUR OWN CLEANUPS | See rubbish on the beach, forest or town? Pick it up, and dispose of it properly. If every traveller helped out during their holiday, the beaches, oceans and forests would be a much happier place for it
DON’T USE PLASTIC BAGS | Pack a reusable tote and use these to carry your snacks, drinks, or new souvenirs instead
READ | For more responsible travel tips, we also have this guide to reducing your plastic consumption on your travels, as well as this guide to the eco-friendly packing essentials we have with us on every single trip.
BALI PACKING ESSENTIALS
Travelling through Bali comes with a unique set of needs. To help you have a comfortable, happy journey, we recommend bringing the following items with you:
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE | THE BEST INVESTMENT WE’VE EVER MADE! We use the Grayl water purification bottles, which allow us to fill up from any water source, anywhere in the world (including train taps!)
A TOTE BAG | The humble tote is a versatile little lifesaver when on the road. They're plastic-free, small, easily foldable, and can pack a surprising amount! Check out this range of beautifully designed, personalisable totes bags here
BIODEGRADABLE WET WIPES | Keep clean without destroying the planet!
HAND SANITISER | This is not something we’d actually recommend normally, but we now live in Covid times... so this can be a bloody great investment
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL ADAPTOR | You’ll need the right plug to keep your gear going!
WATERPROOF CAMERA | We used our Go Pro for a few hours every single day to capture all our underwater fun! DEFINITELY BUY ONE OF THESE!
POWER BANK | Don’t get caught out without power for your devices
EYE MASK | A travel essential to get a good night’s sleep just about anywhere
BIO-FRIENDLY TOILETERIES | Avoid damaging and chemical-heavy products and facial scrubs with microbeads altogether. We recommend Lush solid shampoo, conditioner and body wash bars, ocean-friendly sunscreen (Stream2Sea), a mooncup is a great investment for “that” week and Lip balm for the sun
READ | check out our eco-friendly packing guide to travel through Greece consciously and comfortably
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN BALI
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
Here are our recommendations, based on 8+ years of full-time travel:
FOR TRAVELLERS | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out-of-pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
FOR DIGITAL NOMADS | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
CAR INSURANCE | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
PLANNING A TRIP TO BALI SOON?
Check out these essential guides, travel tips, and more to help you plan your trip:
ULUWATU | The best things to do in Uluwatu, A guide to Bingin Beach, How to visit Padang Padang Beach, Where to stay in Uluwatu
CANGGU | Our guide to bustling Canggu, Where to eat and drink in Canggu, Where to stay in Canggu
UBUD | The best things to do in Ubud, Where to eat and drink in Ubud, Where to stay in Ubud, How to visit Tegalalang Rice Terraces
BALI’S BEST WATERFALLS | How to visit Leke Leke Waterfall, A guide to Nungnung Waterfall, Our guide to the stunning Sekumpul Waterfall, Discover Tibumana Waterfall
THE BEST OF BALI | The best Bali 7-day itinerary, Our complete Bali Guide, How to get around Bali
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world? Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
PLAN YOUR BALI TRAVELS WITH OUR USEFUL GUIDES
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That, and you're officially a legend.