BEST PLACES TO WATCH A BALI SUNSET

Few places do sunsets quite like Bali. Whether you are watching the sky turn gold behind a clifftop temple or sipping a Bintang on the sand as the waves roll in, sunsets here feel almost magical. They are a daily ritual, celebrated by locals and visitors alike. The island’s west-facing beaches and elevated viewpoints mean you are never far from a spectacular show. From iconic spots like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot to hidden gems in the hills and quiet coastal corners, there is a sunset in Bali to suit every kind of traveller. Here are some suggestions for the most unforgettable places across the island to watch the sun go down.

Uluwatu

Perched on Bali’s southern tip between Jimbaran and Ungasan, Uluwatu is one of Bali’s most breathtaking sunset spots. The towering limestone cliffs offer sweeping views over the Indian Ocean, making for a dramatic backdrop as the sun sinks below the horizon. The area is dotted with ocean-view bars and luxury resorts, but the real highlight is Uluwatu Temple, where traditional kecak dance performances take place at sunset, framed by firelight and crashing waves. For a more laid-back experience, head to Single Fin, a cliffside bar popular with surfers and sunset chasers alike.

Tanah Lot

Tanah Lot is one of the most photographed landmarks in Bali, and sunset is when it is at its most striking, particularly if there is also a full tide. The temple, set on a rocky islet just off the coast, appears to float as the tide rises and the sun sets behind it. While it can get crowded, the scene is unforgettable, especially when the sky lights up in gold and orange behind the temple’s outline. Arrive a little early to explore the area and grab a spot along the cliffs before the crowds settle in – definitely factor in traffic as it is usually longer than an hour from Seminyak.

Seminyak Beach

If you are looking for a mix of golden-hour beauty and social buzz, Seminyak is hard to beat. The long stretch of beach is lined with beach clubs, lounges, and colourful beanbags.  It perfect for sinking your toes in the sand with a cocktail or beer in hand. La Plancha, with its rainbow umbrellas and relaxed atmosphere, is one of the most popular sunset hangouts. The best alternative nearby would be Taris Bar. You can also watch the sky turn from blue to violet while enjoying dinner or drinks at Potato Head Beach Club, Ku De Ta or some of the most popular restaurants in Bali – La Lucciola, Moonlite, Gado-Gado and the romantic Breeze at Samaya would be the best ones to try.

Jimbaran Bay – Sunset with Seafood

Jimbaran Bay is renowned for two things: fresh seafood and perfect sunsets. As the day winds down, tables are set right on the sand, candles are lit, and grilled seafood begins to arrive as the sky glows orange and pink. It is one of the most romantic sunset experiences in Bali, especially if you time your dinner for just before dusk. It is also great for families and larger groups looking for a relaxed but memorable evening. Teba or Menega Café would be my suggestions for dinner.  If seafood is not your thing, head a couple of hundred metres south to Pantai Muaya, a nice stretch of beach with casual bars to watch sunset.

Canggu

Canggu has fast become a favourite for sunset lovers. The vibe is relaxed, the crowd is young and social, and the views are reliably stunning. The beach at Batu Bolong is a great central spot, with locals and tourists alike gathering each evening to watch the sun dip below the surf. The Lawn, La Brisa, and Old Man’s are all beachfront spots where you can enjoy a drink, listen to music, and soak in the sky’s changing colours. For a quieter option, head slightly north to Pererenan Beach, where the vibe is more local and the views just as spectacular.  The pick of the spots there would be Hippie Fish.

Amed

Located on Bali’s north-east coast, Amed offers a different kind of sunset. Here, the sun sets behind Mount Agung, casting long shadows and turning the sky soft shades of lavender and orange. The calm waters and black sand beaches add to the magic. While Amed is better known for sunrises over the sea, the mountain-facing sunsets are peaceful and striking. Grab a seat at one of the beachside cafés or walk along the water for a quiet end to the day.  The aptly named Sunset Point Amed is probably the best location, nothing beats a cocktail on the deck there!

Menjangan Island

For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Menjangan Island in West Bali National Park offers one of the most serene sunset settings. With no crowds, little light pollution, and untouched nature all around, sunsets here feel truly impressive. The island is mainly a diving and snorkelling destination, but if you are staying nearby in Pemuteran or within the park, you can catch a boat or sit along the northern coast to watch the sun dip behind the outline of Java.

Lovina

North Bali’s Lovina Beach is often overlooked, but its sunsets can be just as impressive as those in the south. The sea here is usually calm and glassy, creating a mirror-like reflection of the sky. It’s a peaceful spot with a more local feel, and you are likely to have much of the beach to yourself. The boats that do the dolphin cruises in the mornings are often available to take you for a sunset cruise as well – leave about 30 minutes before sunset and cruise along the coast admiring the beautiful villas and then swing around to catch the sun as it sinks below the horizon.

Sanur

Sanur is better known for its sunrises, but the sunsets here still deserve a little attention. The colours reflect beautifully over the shallow waters and long paved path that runs along the beachfront. You will not get dramatic cliffs or big waves, but you will get a peaceful view and plenty of space to enjoy it. Grab a drink at a waterfront café (Luhtu’s at the northern end or Bamboo Bar at the south would be the picks) or simply take a quiet walk along the path as the sky changes colour overhead.

Sidemen

For a more inland, nature-focused sunset experience, the Sidemen valley offers lush rice terraces, mountain backdrops, and soft, pastel-hued skies. As the sun lowers behind Mount Agung, the fields take on a golden glow. There are no beach clubs or crowds here, just the gentle sounds of nature and maybe the distant ringing of temple bells. It is a wonderful spot for photographers and anyone looking for a quiet, soul-soothing way to end the day.  Penebel, which is in Tabanan, would be an alternative that offers similar mix of nature and sunset.

Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan

Just off Bali’s southeast coast, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan offer incredible ocean sunsets with fewer people. Head to Devil’s Tear on Lembongan for dramatic waves and a front-row view of the setting sun. On Ceningan, The Sand Bar gives you that classic barefoot, cocktail-in-hand vibe with direct sunset views. Both islands are easy to explore by scooter and offer plenty of hidden coves and cliffside views for catching the end of the day.  Just be aware you will need to stay the night if you want to watch sunset – the last boat transfers leave for the mainland before sunset begins.

Bukit Peninsula’s Hidden Beaches

Beyond Uluwatu, the Bukit Peninsula is home to lesser-known sunset spots like Balangan Beach, Nyang Nyang, and Tegal Wangi. These beaches will require a bit of a hike to reach, but your reward is golden sands, fewer people, and expansive ocean views. Tegal Wangi, in particular, has rocky tide pools where the light reflects beautifully, just be careful of the waves. These beaches are ideal if you are after something more off-the-grid and are happy to work for your view.  An alternative would be Melasti Beach which can easily be reached by car and has numerous beach clubs to enjoy.

Tips for Watching a Bali Sunset

·       Arrive 30–45 minutes early for the best spot, especially at popular venues.

·       Sunset times vary slightly by season but are generally between 6 to 6:30pm.

·       Bring a sarong or light jacket—the temperature can drop quickly after sunset.

·       Respect local customs at temples and avoid drone use without permission.

·       If going somewhere remote, make sure you have organised return transport.