Looking for the best things to do in Uluwatu? Uluwatu, perched on the cliffs at the southern tip of Bali, was the perfect place to end our trip. Spectacular cliffs, surfers you can watch from a cocktail bar, hidden beaches at the bottom of steep stairs, and a temple where you can see a Kecak dance at sunset. We stayed six nights, but if you have three weeks, three nights in Uluwatu is a great option. This post expands on the final stop of our 3-week Bali itinerary.
From Gili Trawangan to Uluwatu
We took the fast boat back to mainland Bali. Ray, our go-to guide, was already waiting to drive us to Uluwatu. A relaxed start to the last leg of the trip.
Things to do in Uluwatu: what we did
Uluwatu Temple and the Kecak dance
Pura Luhur Uluwatu sits dramatically on a cliff high above the ocean. Come in the late afternoon: at sunset, the Kecak dance is performed here, a mesmerizing show in which a large chorus of men chants a rhythmic “chak-chak” while the story of the Ramayana is acted out. With the setting sun as a backdrop, it’s one of the most beautiful things we saw on Bali.
Watch out for the monkeys: they’re pretty aggressive here and love food in backpacks. So just don’t bring any.
The beaches of Uluwatu
Some of Bali’s most beautiful beaches are around Uluwatu. You often reach them by stairs, but they’re worth every step.
- Padang Padang: a small, popular beach you reach through a narrow passage between the rocks.
- Bingin: a laid-back surf beach with little warungs and guesthouses built into the cliff.
- Melasti: white sand, turquoise water, and impressive cliffs along the road down.
- Suluban: the beach with the cave, right below Single Fin. Go at low tide, when it’s easiest to explore.
- Nyang Nyang: a long, quiet beach for escaping the crowds.
Watching surfers at Single Fin
Grab a cocktail at Single Fin, high on the cliff. You look straight down on the surfers taking on Uluwatu’s waves. A wonderful spot, especially around sunset.
A tattoo as a souvenir
In Uluwatu we both got a tattoo. We don’t remember the name of the shop, but there are several good tattoo artists in the area. Check reviews and the artist’s portfolio beforehand.
Where to stay in Uluwatu
In Uluwatu we stayed at two places, three nights each, both small-scale.
Sal Central
At Sal Central, all rooms are set around a beautiful pool, each with a small private seating area out front. Breakfast is served in the shared open kitchen, prepared by the friendly staff.
PinkCoco
PinkCoco is a bit closer to the coast and has two pools and lovely rooms. There’s an honesty bar: grab your own beers from the fridge and write them down. Miss Benji, one of the staff, brought local treats to the guests by the pool every day, plus a jug of water to stay hydrated 😉 What a place to end this trip!
Beach clubs and restaurants in Uluwatu
- Beach clubs: Ulu Cliffhouse, Mana Restaurant & Bar, or Tropical Temptation.
- Restaurants: Ohana Bali, and pizza at La Baracca.
- Cocktails: Single Fin, overlooking the surfers.
From Uluwatu to the airport
Uluwatu is relatively close to Denpasar airport. We took a Grab for the trip back: easy, and you know the price up front. Do allow for traffic, especially in the late afternoon.
Things to do in Uluwatu: frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Uluwatu?
Three nights is enough for the temple and the Kecak dance, a few beaches, and an evening at Single Fin. We stayed six nights to end the trip at a nice, slow pace.
When can you see the Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple?
The Kecak dance is performed around sunset. Arrive in time, because it’s popular, and keep your belongings close because of the monkeys.
How do you get from Uluwatu to the airport?
By Grab or a private driver. The airport isn’t far, but leave plenty of time for traffic.
👉 Also read: Bali, the Nusa Islands, and Gili Trawangan in 3 weeks, Things to Do on Gili Trawangan, and Things to Do in Ubud.
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