With scorching temperatures creating a sun-drenched paradise all-year round, naturally, sunrise and sunset are some of the most popular times of day on the Island of the Gods to cool down and soak up the views.
Bali is home to a host of iconic sunset spots like Tanah Lot, the temple in the water and Ulun Danu Beratan, the floating temple, but as magnets for tourism, you’re guaranteed to be rubbing shoulders with your fellow sightseers.
One of the fantastic things about travelling through Bali is that much of it remains untouched by tourism and undeveloped, meaning more authentic experiences for visitors and more opportunities to get off the grid.
If you’re looking for the perfect sunset, ditch the guide books and head to these spots.
1. Yeh Leh beach
Whilst many visit Bali to experience its famous black sand, volcanic beaches, others come in search of the secluded pristine white sands that stretch the southern coast. Yet, it’s unlikely many visit in hope of finding a rock-scattered beach that’s difficult to navigate and almost impossible to enjoy any kind of beach activities. That said, Yeh Leh Beach is utterly unique thanks to thousands of years of hard-going ware brought by the sea water to the hundreds of boulders resting in the shallows and on the beach. Spend some time rock hopping and look out for the groups of sea creatures that lurk in the rock pools between. An enchanting backdrop to an orange-hued sunset, Yeh Leh Beach is proud to be different.
2. Amed
Located on the eastern coast of the island, Amed is famous for its tranquil waters, where flat lagoons, vibrant coral reefs and its colourful underwater kingdom await within a 5-minute swim of the shore, attracting divers and non-divers alike from all around the world. And whilst the black sand beaches here are beautiful, the ocean is the place to be to watch the sunset. Paddle out into the calm waters and turn your attention to the shore line to witness the sun falling beyond Mount Agung, the highest point on the island. This active volcano looms boldly over the island, casting a shadow of great majesty upon the surrounding greenery – the perfect sunset host.
3. Candidasa Bay
This peaceful and rarely visited bay is one of the most unsuspecting sunset spots in Bali, providing an elevated spot from which to watch events unfold. Pick up an ice cold beer and set up shop overlooking the bay to the east for the most impressive views, as the sun beams upon the ocean to create a glistening wave of colour. Hidden away from the masses, it won’t be long before you’re in complete darkness, with nothing but the starry night sky to guide you.
4. Jimbaran Bay
Strewn with colourful junk boats and home to golden sands, Jimbaran Bay on Bali’s southwest coast provides the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of nearby Kuta. Whilst dining at one of the high-end restaurants overlooking the bay is an option, keep things casual by picking up some freshly caught fish and asking one of the vendors to grill it for you. Taking your catch of the day and relaxing beneath the canopy of swaying tropical trees at sundown having ambled the world-famous Jimbaran Fish Market should be top of your list. The area boasts some of the best hotels in Bali, so if you’re looking to leave the stresses of daily life behind you – Jimbaran may be the place for you!
5. Melasti Beach
Last but not least on our list is Melasti, on Bali’s western coast. This one’s geared to all the photographers out there looking to snap that perfect sunset shot. The draw here is the small waterfall that falls gracefully from the cliffs and trickles back into the ocean, creating a striking display of natural beauty. This one’s very much a hidden gem and is just a 15 minute stroll from the more tourist-heavy Tanah Lot.
Need more tips? View my travel guide to Bali.
