The sunsets in Indonesia are out of this world and this includes the sunsets in Bali! Most of the time in Indonesia there’s cloud during sunset, it’s rare to have a completely clear sky and watch the sun drop right into the ocean, however, this makes them even better and you’ll be asking yourself ‘is the pastel sunset in Bali real?’ because it looks so dreamy!
No matter where you’re staying in Bali, in this Bali Blog and Bali Travel Guide, here are great ideas for places to watch the sunset in Bali, the best Bali sunset spots, and how to find the pastel sunset in Bali locations.
Best Bali Sunsets
I asked my fellow travel bloggers and Bali lovers where they think the best sunset in Bali is, so below we have suggestions for the best Seminyak Sunset, Canggu Sunset, Uluwatu Sunset, Ubud Sunset, Kuta Sunset and more! These suggestions will also help you work out the best places to visit in Bali, and where to visit in Bali if it is your first time visiting the Island of Gods!
1. The W Bali Hotel Seminyak
The W Bali Hotel in Seminyak sits on an impressive white sand beach. Since the beach at W Bali faces west, you get front-row views of the sunset until the sun completely disappears. The occasional plane taking off and the lounge music blasting from the hotel adds the perfect amount of atmosphere.
Although the hotel is only open to guests, the beach is public. You can stroll along to the beach from further up the beach, but the easiest way to get there is through the hotel. Getting into the hotel can be quite a trek – but totally worth it! From the main street, head down the narrow, leafy pathway with a big “W” outside. Then, keep going straight for as long as you can. Eventually, you’ll reach the main hotel building. Turn left into the bar area and you’ll be greeted by the pools. On the other side of the pools is a small opening that opens onto the beach (again, next to a big “W” sign).
Once you’ve watched the best sunset in Seminyak, you’ll be in the perfect place to enjoy one of the best cafes in Bali, Kynd Community. When you get back to the main street, simply follow it around for about 5 minutes and get ready for some incredible vegan food.
Suggested by: Jodie from Alajode
Not got accommodation booked yet?? Check out Rates and Availability at The W Bali Hotel here!
2. The Legian Seminyak
The Legian is a luxury hotel located right on the beach in Seminyak with prime views of best sunset in Seminyak . Those who have a terrace or balcony facing the sea can see the sunset from their rooms, and other guests can sit down by the pool or outdoor lounge area for sunset. The pool area is lined with palm trees and features all the good Bali vibes.
The wide stretch of sand in Seminyak and unobstructed views from the Legian makes it an ideal place for romance or just enjoying good company while watching the sky change colours and see the sun descend below the horizon.
The Legian has a great selection of cocktails, snacks, and even dinner that you can enjoy. Both non-guests and guests are welcome in the restaurant. I recommend it if you’re located near Seminyak, and is looking for a peaceful place with beautiful views without the crowds.
Suggested by: Alexander from Destinavo
Not got accommodation booked yet?? Check out Rates and Availability at The Legion Hotel here!
3. Double 66 Beach Seminyak
Double 66 beach is located in the bustling heart of Seminyak – an area of Bali, Indonesia, that is filled with bars, restaurants and shops. It’s one of our favourite beaches since it offers relaxation, party, good surf and not to forget the one of the best sunset in Seminyak.
During the day, you can come here for a day filled with massages from the ladies working here on the beach, a nice surf session for anyone from beginner top professional and an ice-cold Bintang beer with one of the beach boys that sit here day by day and rent out sunchairs and surfboards. Could you ask for more? Oh, yes. It has an amazingly picturesque sunset, believe us!
Each evening Double 66 fills up with locals and tourists alike that want to watch the sun go down into the ocean straight in front of their eyes. You’ll find everything and everyone here – from families to friends that play soccer in the sunset light to couples having a romantic walk. Double 66 really has a different face during sunset when beach boys start playing their favourite music, either through their soundboxes or live by guitar and the whole bustle from the day comes to an end.
If you are more of an active person, you can also go for a nice sunset run as Double 66 has an endless stretch of sand that will get you up until the old airport.
Suggested by: Clemens from Travellers Archive
PLANNING YOUR GILI ISLANDS TRIP
I lived on Gili Trawangan island for 6 months so I know it well! Here are my top posts to help you plan your trip:
4. Echo Beach Club Canggu
The best place in Bali to watch the sunset with a cocktail is Echo Beach Club in Canggu, a surf-side bar and restaurant with live music and a casual vibe.
Echo Beach Club is perched on the edge of the beachfront looking out over Canggu’s surf break so you can hear the waves crashing and watch people surfing and enjoying the beach in the distance.
Echo Beach Club is quieter and less expensive than the traditional beach clubs with pools which line the beach, but I’d highly recommend arriving early to secure a table in the perfect spot for an unobstructed view. The outside bar where the action is fills up as it gets close to the time at which the sun is due to set.
Happy Hour at Echo Beach Club runs from 4-6 pm which includes half-price cocktails so you’ll be all set to enjoy one of the beautiful sunsets Bali is famous for with a drink and freshly caught barbecued seafood.
Suggested by: Sarah from Sarah Sees The World
5. Berawa Beach Near Canggu
Canggu is one of Bali’s most popular spots and if you’re in town, watching the incredible sunset every night will be high on your to-do list. While the beach around Old Man’s, as well as Echo beach, seem to be the two most famous sunset spots in Canggu, my favourite place is nearby Berawa beach.
Sure, Berawa is mostly known for the infamous Finn’s Beach Club – and the loud music can easily ruin your peaceful sunset session. Therefore, I recommend walking a few hundred meters to the left, away from the noise and the hustle of Finn’s. Here, you’ll have significantly fewer people compared to the other beaches around Canggu – perfect for a long, relaxing sunset walk.
While all the small beach bars around Berawa beach recently had to close down due to Finn’s rapid expansion, you’ll still find the colourful bean bags where you can sit down, order a cool Bintang from some of the locals and enjoy the end of the day.
Suggested by: Patrick from German Backpacker
6. Karma Beach Uluwatu
Karma Beach is my favourite place to watch the sunset in Uluwatu in Bali. There are so many amazing beaches in Uluwatu so it is hard to choose! However, Karma Beach has the calmest sea and most pristine sand. Here you can sit in the sea and watch the incredible colours over the water and watch the sunset right over the horizon.
It is never too busy, so you won’t be surrounded by people like some other sunset spots in Uluwatu. There is a great selection of food, so after or during the sunset you can fill up on seafood and have a fresh coconut, or a bottle of something stronger!
Another plus is that you don’t have to walk the whole way down to the beach! There are some beaches in Uluwatu that are quite a sweaty walk down to, at Karma beach there is a small lift that takes you up and down. It really is the perfect spot for a relaxing and luxurious sunset.
I spent Christmas here this year and I loved feeling truly spoilt. The fresh sushi is also like nowhere else I’ve had in Bali and is still a reasonable price. The tide also doesn’t go out quite as far as other beaches. Therefore even if is low tide at sunset, there will still be some water to chill in.
Suggested by: Hanna from Solar Powered Blonde
7. Uluwatu Temple
Of all the places that I have been to, and of all the sunset that I have seen – the sunset that I have seen in Uluwatu, Bali is one of the best. My experience at Uluwatu was cultural and spiritual.
The Uluwatu Temple stands on a cliff located at the southwestern tip of Bali; is a 45-minute drive away from the Jimbaran Beach. The sea temple is a short pagoda at the edge of a 70-meter high rock that tourists cannot enter, however, the cliff walk at the waterfront offers an unobstructed and panoramic view of the Indian ocean and the horizon.
In short, the location is of perfect height, in a good direction, and with a cultural backdrop for a perfect sunset viewing experience.
This is also where the popular Kecak and Fire Dance performance takes place; visit the site a little bit earlier to secure your seat. The show usually starts slightly before dark – explore the nearby area, have a walk by the cliff, take pictures of the temple (be careful of the monkeys though, they like to grab food out of tourists hands or bags); and finally, enjoy a historical performance as the sun goes down.
Suggested by: Kenny from Knycx Journeying
8. Single Fin Beach Club Uluwatu
Watching the sunset from the Single Fin Beach Club is a Bali bucket list-worthy experience! The club boasts epic clifftop views over the Indian Ocean on the most southwestern tip of Bali island.
Arrive an hour before sunset and take a sit on a terrace overlooking the ocean. While the sun is going down, watch the scenic light display and take a peek down below at surfers riding the mighty waves. You can have a drink or a dinner; the place has a great menu serving some mouth-watering burgers. There is also an infinity pool to enjoy. I enjoyed the chilled atmosphere and the sunset tunes they were playing.
Single Fin is situated on the clifftops of Suluban Beach, one of the many beaches in Uluwatu, if you have more time, I recommend exploring the beach before the sunset. Follow the steep staircase down to reach the beach. Take an Instagram worthy shot on the beach and check out its cool caves.
You’ll find this fantastic sunset viewpoint in Pecatu Village in Uluwatu. There is a 5k IDR fee to park.
Suggested by: Mal from Raw Mal Roams
9. Bingin Beach Near Uluwatu
Watching a Bali sunset from Bingin Beach should be on every traveller’s list when visiting Bali. Bingin is well known for having a chilled out vibe where you can sit back on the sand with a Bintang or relax on the clifftop while the sun sets over the water.
To get to Bingin Beach you will need to travel to the Uluwatu region south of Bali Airport. Make your way to the Bingin Beach public car park where you will walk the short distance to the cliff edge of Bingin. To reach the beach you descend the stairs where you will find the sand plus rocky edges of the beach.
There are a great range of local warungs with cheap food and drinks, we love the cocktails from Kelly’s Warung.
If you would prefer to watch the sunset without climbing the steps, there are plenty of places along the clifftop that are perfect to sit back and take in the sunset views. Bingin Beach is a great spot to enjoy a beautiful Bali sunset that is cheap but with stunning views.
Suggested by: Kate from Rolling Along With Kids
Want to visit the most famous places to visit in Bali, including the Bali Instagram hotspots and the iconic Eat, Pray, Love locations?
Booking an organised tour is the best way to do this so you have a guide to show you around Bali who will introduce you to local Balinese Culture as well as the best tourist attractions in Bali. One of these Bali day tours would be great to book before you get to Bali or once you’re in Bali!
10. Kuta Beach
One of the most iconic of Bali’s beautiful beaches is Kuta Beach, located not far away from Denpasar International Airport. It is a popular spot to watch the sunset – silky soft sand provides a perfect place to enjoy the glowing sun as it disappears over the horizon.
One of the biggest reasons people enjoy the sunset at Kuta Beach is its accessibility. Located in the middle of the island, Kuta is easy to reach from all over Bali.
This stretch of Kuta Beach is the hub for parties and nightlife, and sunset is the perfect start to your night out. You can easily find a lot of restaurants here that sell authentic Indonesian food. Bars, pubs, and night clubs were established to lure party-goers to the area. Nightly parties linger late into the night.
You shouldn’t have any issue finding your way to Kuta Beach – it’s where everyone else is going, too! Just walk, hop on your scooter, or jump in a taxi. It’s that simple.
Suggested by: Halef and Michael from The Round The World Guys
11. Tegal Wangi Beach Near Kuta
If you’re looking for the best sunset locations in Bali, you have to add Tegal Wangi Beach to your Bali itinerary. This hidden gem is situated on the western side of the Bukit Peninsula and it’s easy to reach by motorbike or car.
The beauty of Tegal Wangi Beach lies in the tall cliffs surrounding the beach and beautiful natural pools formed right on the seashore. Don’t hesitate to explore the beach. If you go towards the end of it, you’ll find two beautiful caves overlooking the ocean.
This beach is a popular sunset location not only for tourists but for locals too. Don’t be surprised if you’ll see a couple of local couples enjoying a romantic evening here.
Tegal Wangi is one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali and the good news is that not many tourists know about it. Don’t expect to find a sea of people here. Enjoy a quiet and relaxing sunset in a secret sunset spot in Bali.
Suggested by: Aurelia from Daily Travel Pill
12. Tanah Lot Temple
If watching the sun set over the emptiness of the horizon on the beach is becoming a little too mundane for you, why not add something beautiful to this magical picture?
At Tanah Lot Temple, not only do you get to watch the skies burn in various vibrant shades, but you can admire the sacred temple as the sun dips behind the shadowy edges. Besides the prime location on the west coast of Bali, the religious complex juts out into the ocean.
As the sun sets, the religious complex becomes a mysterious silhouette, amplifying the beauty of this daily natural occurrence. However, what makes Tanah Lot Temple even better is the magic that happens at high tide. During high tide, the rock path that connects the temple with the main island is submerged.
When this occurs, it appears that the religious complex is a floating island on its own. Combined with the sunset, the view is nothing less than breathtaking. Don’t miss the Tanah Lot Temple on your Bali trip!
Suggested by: Sean from Living Out Lau
13. Rice Field Cafes Ubud
The rolling rice terraces of Ubud are hidden away from the busy streets. Not far from green and glorious Campuhan Ridge Walk lies a sleepy lane of relaxed guesthouses, yoga studios and cafes. Sinking a few Bintangs while watching sunset is one of the best things to do in Ubud if the busy tourist markets become too much.
There are two particularly pretty cafes with rice field views serving reasonably priced Balinese food which act as places to watch the best sunset in Ubud.
Sari Organik is a Wi-Fi free cafe with lots of veggie and vegan options. For the best view in the house, bag a seat at the bar that runs along the back of the cafe. You’ll be treated to rice terrace and palm tree views as the sun sets and, if you’re lucky, you may spy local people presenting goods at their family shrines.
A few doors down is Pomegranate Cafe, a comfy open-plan cafe where you can soak up rice terrace views from any seat in the house. Visit for the handmade pizza and stay for the fresh coconuts which you can drink with a straw. To access either of these cafes by foot or scooter, take the turning beside Pura Dalem Ubud on Jl. Raya Ubud. Visit around 6pm for sunset in Ubud.
Suggested by: Rose from Where Goes Rose
14. Campuhan Ridge Walk Ubud
Located just a few minutes from downtown Ubud, Campuhan Ridge Walk is a free walking trail and one of the best places to visit during sunset in Ubud.
To get to the Campuhan Ridge Walk, make your way towards Warwick Ibah Luxury Villas and Spa where you’ll find a sign saying “going to the hill”. From there, just take the stairs on the right to reach the beginning of the trailhead.
The path is well-paved and snakes through the hills covered by lush green fields. It’s definitely a must on any Ubud itinerary if you want a quick escape from the hustle of Ubud.
While the main trail can sometimes get crowded, most people don’t make it all the way to KarsaKafé which has one of the best rice field views! Make sure to stop there to sip on a fresh coconut while enjoying an incredible view of the sun setting behind the rice paddies.
Suggested by: Stephanie from Let’s Venture Out
15. Jungut Beach Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is one of the Nusa islands located off the eastern coast of Bali. It is still part of Bali and consists of 3 beautiful islands that are still largely undeveloped and not as touristic as their famous neighbor. The busiest one is called Nusa Lembongan.
Most of the infrastructure and the hotels, bars, and restaurants on Nusa Lembongan faces west so the sunsets each evening are quite incredible from many vantage points. The main beach is called Jungut Batu and there are many places along it where you can grab a cocktail, flop into a bean bag on the sand, and be mesmerized by the setting sun whilst listening to the gently lapping waves.
Nusa Lembongan is a 45-minute side trip from Sanur in Bali by speedboat. There are few cars on the island and it is a fantastic and affordable destination in Indonesia with quite a lot to see and do including some amazing diving and snorkeling.
Suggested by: Sandy from Tray Tables Away
16. Devil’s Tear Nusa Lembongan
A 30-minute ferry takes you from Sanur on the Bali mainland across to Nusa Lembongan. Then a 10-minute taxi or scooter ride takes you down past Dream Beach to Devil’s Tear.
On the south-west tip of Nusa Lembongan, Devil’s Tear has been created by the waves beating the rocks forming a horseshoe-shaped inlet.
As the sun starts setting and the sky is streaked with pink, orange and red, the naturally formed Devil’s Tear is the perfect sunset in Bali.
Watch as the skies colours are reflected on the turquoise waters and the waves send spray shooting up as it hits the rocks, before getting sucked back out again. Take care not to get too close as the sea can be unpredictable, and the waves could either soak you or knock you over on to the jagged rocks.
Visiting Devil’s Tear is an unmissable experience in Bali and is a definite must-see on your trip to Nusa Lembongan.
Suggested by: Larch from The Silver Nomad
GETTING FROM BALI TO THE GILI ISLANDS
There is only one way to get from Bali to the Gili Islands and that’s my fast boat from Padang Bay.
You can wait until you arrive to book your boat or be organised and book it in advance here. Booking in advance is especially good during the summer and Christmas months!
BUY HERE: From Bali: 1-Way Boat Transfer to Gili Trawangan/Gili Air/Lombok
BUY HERE: From all Gili Islands: 1-Way Boat Transfer to Bali
17. Sunset Point Amed
For the best sunset on Bali’s East Coast, there is no better place than the aptly-named Sunset Point in Amed.
Sitting on a small cliff overlooking Jemeluk Bay below, Sunset Point has a sweeping view over the bay and the lush, tropical hills behind it towards Balu’s holy mountain, Gunung Agung. Mount Agung is an active volcano and if you’re lucky you might even see some steam or smoke coming out from the top.
Come here before 18:00 to get a table, get something cold to drink and bask in the last golden light of yet another day in paradise. Be prepared to be blown away by a thousand shades of orange, purples or blues, depending on what mother nature has in mind for you.
Sunset point is extremely laid back and low key, just like anywhere else in the stunning fishing village of Amed. Expect a small drinks menu, mellow vibes and chill music as you watch everything turn golden.
The best way to get to sunset point is by scooter. Amed is a long, one street village, so ask anyone to point in the direction of Sunset point, you really can’t (and shouldn’t) miss it.
Suggested by: De Wet & Jin from Museum of Wander
18. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
If you want to avoid the crowded beaches and clubs while watching a Balinese sunset, go inland to Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. With the lush mountains to your back and the island’s largest terraced rice fields in front of you, this piece of Bali’s UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site is peaceful and underappreciated gem.
While it is not particularly easy to get to from Kuta and also has a higher risk of being cloudy during sunset, it is still worth the 90-minute drive north. For 40,000 Rupiah (3 USD) per person, you can wander through and among the terraces for as long as you like. It can easily captivate you for the whole day as there are 600 hectares of land to explore. Smile and wave to the working farmers while you’re at it.
There are an abundance of great spots to watch the sunset in Jatiluwih Rice Terraces from and you may even feel like you have the place to yourself as few tourists make the effort to get there. Even the local cafes and warungs have amazing views for you to enjoy while sitting for dinner or coffee. So rent a scooter or hire a driver and make Jatiluwih part of your Bali tour.
Suggested by: Dave from Dave on Arrival
19. Gili Islands
The Gili Islands of Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno are not actually part of Bali, they are 3 small islands part of Lombok Island next door, but, it is easy to get from Bali to the Gili Islands so many people visit as part of their Bali itinerary.
The sunsets from all 3 Gili Islands are amazing, head to the west beach on each island to see the sunset. When you are on Gili T you see the sun setting directly over Bali!
Remember to always stay until after the sun has gone down as the skies turn amazing pastel sunset colours and this is when the magic happens!
Suggested by: The Wandering Quinn
Now you have plenty of ideas on where to see the best sunset in Bali and the best places to visit in Bali!
Top Tip – The Bali sunset time changes depending on the time of year so always be sure to google ‘Bali Sunset time today’ to ensure you know what time the sun sets in Bali and you don’t miss an epic Bali Sunset!
- Here are more of my mosts to help you plan your trip in Bali, the nearby Gili Islands and Lombok!
- 2 Week Itinerary Bali, Gili Islands and Lombok!
- Gili Islands Indonesia – Your Complete Guide To Visiting Gili!
- 30 Things To Do On Gili Trawangan!
- The BEST Places to Visit in Lombok!