As part of an archipelagic nation like Indonesia, it’s not a surprise that the beaches in Bali are among the most picturesque in the country. And though you can do more than just swimming, in this article, we will focus more on which beaches in Bali are the best for swimming.
One important note before you pack up your bikinis and beach towel is that no beach is the same in Bali. For example, the southern part is prone to strong waves, while the eastern part is calmer. The waves and currents also vary even if they share the same coastline, so please always take that into consideration.
Can’t wait to discover which are the best beaches in Bali for swimming? Bookmark this page or get your notes ready because you’re about to have the greatest fun swimming on these 10 beaches on the Island of the Gods.
1. Sanur Beach
If there is the best beach to swim in Bali, Sanur will definitely on the top. The reason is is because Sanur doesn’t have the big waves because it’s a sea instead of an ocean. The reef barriers also break down the waves so they don’t even reach the beach.
For this exact reason, Sanur has become a family-friendly beach destination. Kids can play on the beach and swim without worrying about the strong currents. But you still need to watch out for the sea urchins and the sharp reefs.
2. Seminyak Beach
Seminyak Beach is probably everyone’s favorite beach to swim. The easy access and the popularity means there are always people around, including the lifeguards on duty. The swimming area is usually marked between two red/yellow flags, and that’s when you know it’s safe to swim.
If you only see red flags, it means it’s not safe to swim too far from the beach. Always follow the lifeguards’ orders and pay attention to the flags on the beach. And if it’s too dangerous to swim, you can lay out your beach towel, go for a quick dip, or go to one of the beach clubs along the beach and lounge by the pool.
3. Nusa Dua Beach
The beach in Nusa Dua is not only well-maintained, but it’s possibly the safest beach in the southern peninsula to swim. If the beaches around Uluwatu are mainly geared towards surfers, the ones in Nusa Dua are where people go to get wet with fewer surfers around.
The rows of world-class resorts and villas along the beach also play a part in why swimming at Nusa Dua Beach is possible. The resorts often have designated areas for guests to swim and always have lifeguards on duty. This makes Nusa Dua generally safe for you to swim.
4. Kuta Beach
It turns out that Kuta Beach is not only one of the best surf beaches in Bali, but it is also suitable for swimming. And since Kuta is always packed with visitors, expect to see lifeguards on duty and the beach to be a bit crowded. But there’s no reason for you not to jump in the water!
At Kuta Beach, you also don’t need to worry about getting scratched by the reef since it has sandy bottoms. Even though the waves are mellow, always swim between the safe flags, and if lifeguards ask you to move out of the water, please comply for your safety.
5. Melasti Beach
Chances are, you’ve heard about Melasti Beach in Uluwatu as this gorgeous beach in Uluwatu, with iconic entrance gates. But aside from its towering lime cliff, Melasti is also one of the beaches in the Bukit Peninsula area where you can swim.
Popular among families, you will see kids and adults alike jump in the water at Melasti Beach. Though strong waves and currents can happen, it’s generally safe as long as you stay close enough to the beach and don’t venture out too far.
6. Lovina Beach
The dolphin tour is what makes people flock to Lovina. But people often forget that the location of Lovina Beach in the north of Bali means you will not encounter big waves like the ones in the south. This means it’s one of the best beaches in Bali for swimming!
With slightly darker sandy beaches and many fishermen’s boats, Lovina is pretty laid-back once all the dolphin tour is over. Soak in the quietness and swim to your heart’s content with fewer people in the water.
7. Berawa Beach
Berawa Beach in Canggu is one of the few beaches around the area where you can swim. The beach is also a hot spot for surfers, and though you always have to watch for their boards, there are still plenty of spaces to move around freely.
The best time to swim is early in the morning or afternoon to avoid the overcrowding of the beach. Since surfers only surf based on the wave’s conditions, there are times when you have the beach with just a few surfers around.
8. Virgin Beach
Virgin Beach on the eastern side is one of the top-kept beaches in Bali. It’s a bit out of the way, but if you’re en route to Amed or want to explore further than Padang Bai, don’t miss your chance of stopping here.
The beach is lined with coconut trees and traditional fishermen’s boats, making it quite scenic if you see it from the water. It’s safe to swim here most of the time, and we suggest you swim in the morning because, if you’re lucky, you can see fishermen come back with the catch!
9. Amed Beach
With the lack of huge waves, you will be so tempted to stay in the water for a while at Amed Beach. And the great news is that Amed is a spectacular beach in Bali where you can swim and snorkel!
While you can just float and relax, you can also put on your fins and goggles to explore the colorful fish and coral reefs at Amed. And with the majestic Mount Agung in the background and the black sandy beach, your swimming just gets elevated to a new height!
10. Padang Padang Beach
Thanks to the Eat, Pray, Love movie, Padang Padang has now become one of the top beaches in Bali to visit. The unique contour of the cove-like setting has made swimming in Padang Padang on many people’s bucket lists.
The beach is not big, but it’s always full of people who want to swim, sunbathe, or just relax by the beach. The swimming area is quite wide, though the further you go from the beach, the more you need to pay attention to the surfers who try to conquer the waves. Also, be careful with the sharp reef since the beach mostly has reef bottoms.
Conclusion
There’s no denying that swimming in the ocean is one of the simplest yet the most freeing experiences you can get in Bali. But it’s also wise to know that not every beach in Bali is best for swimming, primarily due to the waves and the strong currents. The list gives you a general idea about the beaches on the island where you can swim safely.
And no matter how much you want to stay in the water, always protect yourself by wearing sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen. There’s nothing more annoying than getting sunburnt while you’re having the time of your life in the water. So, have a fantastic beach day, and have fun in the water!