Beach Options in North and East Bali

Starting up on the northwest coast, the peaceful coastal village of Pemuteran is one of our favorite all-around beaches in Bali. Its attractive black sand strip is home to a fine selection of upmarket hotels and villas, as well as a few shops and inviting local restaurants. 

Development here is in that ‘just right’ area: there are water sports, diving trips, and a handful of local attractions, but the beach is not overly busy. With the West Bali National Park located just a 10-minute drive to the west, it’s also a fine base or jumping-off point for explorations within the park or out to Menjangan.

At the extreme north of the island is the small city of Singaraja, and on its western outskirts is the beach resort of Lovina.

Lovina’s flat, soft sand is, like Pemuteran, an attractive volcanic black. It’s reasonably well-developed and especially popular with villa rentals and ex-pats. A unique highlight are boat trips out to spot bottle-nosed dolphins which swarm just off-shore. 

Head inland from Lovina and you’ll quickly be amongst paradisical scenery of rice fields and dramatic waterfalls – ideal for day hikes and cultural activities.

Over on the southeast corner of the island, Candi Dasa refers to a wide area of coast with lots of attraction. At the far east is the beautiful stretch of white sand beach Pasir Putih – one of the best hidden beaches on the island. 

At the extreme south, you’ll find the famous ‘Blue Lagoon’ – a sheltered, coral-rich cove which is heaven for beginner snorkelers – and just walking distance away is Padang Bai, from where high-speed ferries depart for Lombok and the Gili Islands.