Watching sunset is one of the most popular things to do in Bali. There are a number of characteristics about sunsets in Bali that make them so special.
Bali sunsets display a stunning array of colors – from pink and red to purple and orange, casting beautiful reflections on the clouds and sea.
The convergence of ocean and mountain landscapes, accompanied by warm weather and captivating skies, results in the creation of some of the most breathtaking sunsets that can be witnessed anywhere. For the majority of the year, the winds are offshore, so being near or on a Bali beach is very pleasant, particularly in the early evenings. Witnessing the sun setting over the ocean as it dips below the horizon is a rare experience that many people cherish.
Visitors and locals alike make a special effort to catch a glimpse of the sun as it sizzles into the distant Indian Ocean.
There are many rituals performed around sunset – it’s a time when the beach becomes a focal point for activities. Tourists will populate the beach bars and stretch out on beanbags with a favourite drink; expats walk their dogs; and the locals sit quietly on the warm sand discussing the days events as the sun takes centre stage. There may be an impromptu game of soccer, volleyball or frisbee; the occasional wedding proposal; and of course, hundreds of people lining up the perfect photo opportunity just as the sun sets.
For some Balinese, sunset is the best time for business – ice cream, pirate-ship kites, sarongs, massages and assorted novelty toys are popular items to sell on the beach at this time of day. “Special sunset price” is a common sales pitch that ensures deals are closed to the captured audience!
Watching sunset is a peaceful experience, giving you a chance to reflect on the day and consider the future. It is therapeutic and leads you to feel relaxed, content and present with nature.
The south of mainland Bali is a popular area to catch sunset. The long strip of beach stretching from Kuta up to Canggu is well known to tourists, with the section between Double Six in Legian to Petitenget in Seminyak bustling with activity. It is here you will find the majority of beanbag bars and some of the best restaurants in Bali, right beside the beach.
Beyond the airport are the protected ocean beaches of Jimbaran, synonymous with seafood restaurants offering the chance for diners to sit at tables right on the sand.
The Bukit Peninsula has the clifftop Uluwatu Temple, perched around 70 metres above the ocean. It is here that visitors can enjoy sunset with a backdrop of the beautiful temple and take in a kecak dance performance.
In the other direction is another famous Hindu temple, known as Tanah Lot, the “island in the sea”. Capturing a sunset photograph with the temple in the foreground is high on the list of recommended experiences at this time of day.
Beyond mainland Bali are the islands of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan. Staying overnight on one of these islands is highly recommended as there is so much to do. This will also allow you to find a patch of sand or window seat in a restaurant and watch the sun set behind Bali in the distance.
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