What’s Bukit West & Uluwatu known for?
Perched on the tip of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula is Uluwatu, a trendy surfer town that also happens to have some of the island’s most dramatic coastline. World-class waves attract expert surfers from all around the globe, who come for the powerful swell and epic barrels. Even if you don’t surf, Uluwatu has plenty to offer adventurous travellers! Explore hidden beaches and spectacular temples along this incredible stretch of coastline, or party at Uluwatu’s hip evening hangouts.
Price | Good for | Airport | Kids | Culture | Beaches | Dining | Nightlife | Surf | Spa & Yoga |
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$$$ | Surf&culture | 12mi | * * | * * * | * * * | ** | * * * | * * * * | * * * |
Who should go to Bukit West & Uluwatu?
It’s no surprise that Uluwatu’s biggest fans are surfers, but who else is the area suited for? The abundance of hidden beaches, epic sunset spots and hip party venues make the area a hit with a wide variety of people, including:
When should you go to Bukit West Uluwatu?
For the weather
The best time to visit Bukit West & Uluwatu is during Bali’s dry season, which lasts from April to September. Temperatures at this time range between 29 – 31 C (84 – 88 F) and rainy spells are infrequent.
To beat the crowds
Uluwatu can get busy during the ‘high season’ months of July and August when accommodation prices in the area also rise. Visit in May, June, or September to beat the crowds, or during the ‘low season’ months of December, January and February.
For the surf
Conditions for surfing around Bukit West & Uluwatu are best during the dry season months, from May to September. Popular surf spots can get crowded around this time of year, however, so you may want to visit in October. The ocean swells in this month are still strong, but the area is less busy.
Things to see and do in Uluwatu
Go surfing!
If you’re a confident surfer Uluwatu is heaven on earth, with more challenging breaks than anywhere else in Bali. Many surf spots around here are suitable for advanced and expert surfers only, but there are still a few places for intermediate surfers to get in some practice. But where are the best places to surf around Bukit West & Uluwatu and what level of surfer are they best for?
Surfing pros: Check out Uluwatu Beach for powerful swell, fast waves and barrels galore!
Advanced surfers: Head to Suluban beach, or make for Padang Padang and take the left surf break for challenging waves.
Intermediate surfers: Padang Padang beach has two surf breaks; one on the left and one on the right. Turn right for more manageable waves, where intermediate surfers can hone their skills on the moderate swell.
Check out a Kecak dance performance
The traditional Balinese Kecak Dance is an astonishing display of costume, drama, vocals and flame, and you can see it all in Uluwatu. For the most dramatic performances, head to the clifftop amphitheater near Uluwatu Temple. The Kecak Fire Dance show begins at sunset, for an unforgettable cultural experience in Bali with a beautiful backdrop of colour.
Visit the Uluwatu Temple
This Balinese Hindu sea temple is a great spot for an afternoon in Uluwatu and is famed for its sweeping, panoramic ocean views. Equally famous are the Uluwatu Temple monkeys, who are known bag and snack-snatchers – be on your guard when you visit!
Drink, dance and listen to live music at the Sunday night Single Fin Party
If you happen to be in Uluwatu on a Sunday night, don’t miss the party at Single Fin! This weekly event brings in people from all over the island and has made it onto the bucket list of many a visitor to Bali. Sip cocktails and ice cold Bintang on the balcony of this fabulous oceanside venue and have fun mingling with people from all over the world.
Play a round of golf at the New Kuta Golf Course
Golf enthusiasts will love the New Kuta Golf Course, an 18-hole course perched atop the limestone cliffs of Uluwatu’s rugged coastline. This beautifully maintained and landscaped course is one of the best in Bali and boasts incredible views of the ocean from several holes.
Suitable for both golfing pros and beginners the New Kuta Golf Course is a great place to play a few rounds or take lessons to sharpen up your skills.
Off the beaten path…
Seek out Nyang Nyang Beach
Nyang Nyang Beach is a little more effort to get to than others in Bukit West & Uluwatu, but this ‘secret beach’ is well worth the hassle. Travellers who make it down the 500 cliffside steps will be rewarded with white sand, Insta-worthy shipwrecks and perfect serenity. Towering white cliffs overspilling with jungle foliage create a Jurassic backdrop, making Nyang Nyang feel even more secluded and special.
Come here to sunbathe, stroll, surf, or meditate away from the crowds, for a perfect afternoon in paradise!
Where to eat in Bukit West & Uluwatu?
Suka Espresso
For brunch in Uluwatu, look no further than Suka Espresso! This trendy warung-style restaurant not only serves awesome coffee but also has a delicious menu packed with healthy and tasty dishes. Come in the morning for their amazing avocado toast, or later on for sweet potato fries and epic chicken burgers.
GaRaSi Resto
With both a Western-style grill and traditional Balinese dishes, GaRaSi Resto has something to suit everyone. Their varied menu includes dishes from a wide range of international cuisines, all professionally prepared and presented.
Their outdoor seating area is candle-lit after dark, creating a magical ambiance that’s perfect for a romantic dinner.
The Cashew Tree
Make your way to The Cashew Tree while you’re in Uluwatu for creative, healthy meals and plentiful veggie and vegan options. These colourful dishes are as nourishing as they are vibrant and the large, airy venue is a pleasant place to relax as you dine. Their salads, smoothie bowls and sumptuous desserts are a hit among their customers, so check them out while you’re in Uluwatu!
Where to stay in Bukit West & Uluwatu?
To be near the action
The main street in Uluwatu is Jalan Raya Uluwatu Pecatu, which is home to most of the area’s shops and restaurants. Staying in this area will give you the best access to the local amenities, so you can stock up on surf and beach gear before you hit the coast!.
To be near the beach
Surfers and sunbathers should look for accommodation near the beach in Uluwatu, and Padang Padang is the ideal area. Not only is this beach perfect for surfers, there are also plenty of places to relax with a cold beer. There are several cafes in this area too, providing lots of shady spots to escape the midday heat.
Remember: Bukit West & Uluwatu is quite an isolated area of Bali and attractions and beaches here are quite spread out. Renting a motorbike is by far the most convenient way to get around this part of Bali and will allow you the freedom to thoroughly explore this area.
Rent a villa in Uluwatu
Renting a villa in Uluwatu can be the best way to combine exploration and relaxation on your trip to Bali. Luxury Villas like the Indah Manis can be found close to the action in Uluwatu and provides the ultimate bolthole for when you want to chill in style.