Uluwatu has been known as the surfer’s paradise, but this corner on the southern coast of Bali offers more than great waves. There are numerous places to see in Uluwatu, from a beach club to a culturally ancient temple. Spending a day (or even staying) in Uluwatu is something you absolutely must do!
If you’re overwhelmed by the options, worry not—these curated five top places to visit in Uluwatu are the only guide you need. Pack your bikini, sunglasses, and hats, and get ready for some sun and fun action!
1. Uluwatu Temple Bali
There is a reason this 11th-century temple has become the icon of Uluwatu. Perched 70 meters on the cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple Bali, which means “something of divine origin,” is arguably one of the best places in Uluwatu. It is also one of the six important and spiritual pillar temples in Bali.
The Uluwatu Temple Bali is also where the famous Kecak Dance is performed, where you can see the traditional Balinese dance with the stunning sunset as the backdrop. As a piece of advice, keep your belongings in the bag because the cheeky monkeys here are known to snatch hats, sunglasses, and even phones from tourists!
2. Padang Padang Beach
It’s no secret that Uluwatu beaches are stunning and not just for surfers. Padang Padang Beach is the one you should go to among many beaches in the south, especially if you want to relieve a scene from the movie Eat, Pray, Love because this is where they shot the scene.
You need to pass small stairs between two huge boulders before being presented with the turquoise water and white sand beach. Perfect to just chill, Padang Padang Beach is also safe to swim, and occasionally, when the conditions are excellent, you will be graced by some surfers trying to conquer the waves!
3. Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort
If you’re tired of the heavy traffic in Canggu, staying in Uluwatu is an excellent option. Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort is one of the best hotels in Bali that you can stay in, as it offers luxury with world-class amenities and impeccable service. If you want to know what Bali hospitality is like, the Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort will show you and exceed any expectations you have.
Boasting 73 suites, pool villas, and penthouses with an infinity swimming pool overlooking the majestic Indian Ocean, Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort makes a perfect escape from Bali traffic as serenity and tranquillity engulf you in its atmosphere.
4. Savaya Uluwatu
The only Uluwatu beach club you have to put on your itinerary, Savaya Uluwatu, is the place to be if you’re looking for a place to dance your night away. Known for The Cube, Savaya Uluwatu is the creme de la creme of the beach club in Uluwatu and has hosted unforgettable shows and parties with the likes of Calvin Harris and Diplo.
Offering different seating options, from cabanas to daybeds, Savaya Uluwatu appears to be hanging above the ocean. Whether it’s for the stunning sunsets, chill and relax while sipping your cocktails, or party ‘til drop, Savaya Uluwatu will entertain you with sick beats and out-of-this-world views.
5. The Cave by Chef Ryan Clift
Dramatic is the perfect word to describe The Cave by Chef Ryan Clift, a restaurant inside a cave at The Edge Bali. Perfect for a romantic dinner, the award-winning chef’s seven—to ten-course gastronomy menu will certainly be the highlight of your dining experience in Uluwatu.
With the stalactites poking out the cave’s wall, there is no place like this on the island, which makes it more reason for you to go! Unique and one-of-its-kind, The Cave by Chef Ryan Clift is undoubtedly one of the best places in Uluwatu that you must try, as it has more than just delicious meals!
CONCLUSION
These five top places in Uluwatu prove that surfing is not the only great thing about this southern coastal area in Bali. Where else can you wine and dine and enjoy the spectacular sunset with the cultural dance performance in one of the most significant religious sites in Bali? Uluwatu covers everything you want to experience in Bali.
Without the heavy congestion, Uluwatu is a breath of fresh air, literally and figuratively, and slowly becoming the “it” place on the island. Whatever you want to do, Uluwatu has it all.