Padang Padang Beach
A picturesque cove in Uluwatu, Bali, accessed through a dramatic cliff passage, famous for surfing and stunning natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful vibes, fewer crowds
Padang Padang Beach
Best Time
Peaceful vibes, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque cove in Uluwatu, Bali, accessed through a dramatic cliff passage, famous for surfing and stunning natural beauty.
"This beach is undeniably beautiful and incredibly photogenic—easily one of the must-visit spots in the area."
🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Visit before 10 AM for a more serene experience. Crowds build quickly on this small beach.
💰 Bring Cash for Entry
There's a small entry fee, and it's cash only. ATMs are not readily available nearby.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Cliff Entrance
Beach Entrance
A narrow, adventurous passage through towering cliffs opens to a breathtaking cove.
Surfer's Paradise
Ocean
Renowned for its consistent, powerful waves, a dream for intermediate surfers.
Golden Sands & Turquoise Waters
Main Beach Area
A picturesque stretch of soft sand framed by dramatic rock formations and clear blue sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Bliss
Surf's Up (for Intermediates!)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Visit before 10 AM for a more serene experience. Crowds build quickly on this small beach.
💰 Bring Cash for Entry
There's a small entry fee, and it's cash only. ATMs are not readily available nearby.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Some areas in the water can be rocky and painful to walk on. Water shoes offer comfort.
🐒 Watch Out for Monkeys
Be mindful of the monkeys near the entrance; they can be cheeky and try to grab your belongings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Visit before 10 AM for a more serene experience. Crowds build quickly on this small beach.
💰 Bring Cash for Entry
There's a small entry fee, and it's cash only. ATMs are not readily available nearby.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
Some areas in the water can be rocky and painful to walk on. Water shoes offer comfort.
🐒 Watch Out for Monkeys
Be mindful of the monkeys near the entrance; they can be cheeky and try to grab your belongings.
☀️ Limited Shade
Bring sunscreen and consider an umbrella as natural shade is scarce.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Padang Padang Beach is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, unique cliffside entrance, and excellent surf conditions. Visitors love the picturesque scenery and the adventurous approach. However, the beach's small size means it can get extremely crowded, and some find the rocky areas in the water uncomfortable without water shoes.
"⭐ 4.5/5 – Beautiful but can get crowded
Padang Padang Beach is one of Bali’s iconic small beaches, famous for its turquoise waters, white sand, and dramatic rock formations. You enter through a narrow cliffside stairway, which makes the approach feel a bit adventurous — and the view when you step onto the sand is breathtaking.
👍 Pros:
• Stunning scenery, great for photos.
• Calm, clear water, perfect for swimming.
• Popular surf spot with consistent waves for intermediate surfers.
• Unique cliff entrance adds charm.
⚠️ Cons:
• Small beach area, so it gets very crowded, especially late morning to afternoon.
• Entry fee applies (small amount, but cash only).
• Limited shade — bring sunscreen and maybe an umbrella.
💡 Tips:
• Best to visit early in the morning to enjoy the peace before the crowds.
• Bring water and snacks, though there are small stalls nearby.
• If you surf, this spot can be magical during the right tide."
Zia Afridi
"10/10 the hike up will be worth it but I recomend going in the morning since in the evening it's crowded. Very clean most of the sand is soft but some part are still rough."
Chello
"It is actually a good beach but very crowded when we got there. The steps were so much for my parents but glad that they made it down and up. Hope they find solution for older people like an elevator perhaps. But all good.
The sand in the water wasn’t too good. Super rocky. The sand wasn’t very fine. In fact painful to walk. I suggest bringing water shoes.
Surfing price is decent but would rather spend it on something else. 600k for 1hr 30mins. Includes a trainer, rash guard and training."
Gio Alforte
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Padang Padang Beach is located in Uluwatu, Bali. You can reach it by scooter, taxi, or ride-sharing app. Parking is available near the entrance. The final approach involves descending a narrow staircase carved into the cliffs.
The access involves a narrow staircase through rocks, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues or parents with strollers. Some visitors have wished for an elevator.
Scooters are a popular and convenient way to explore Uluwatu and its beaches. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available.
Yes, Padang Padang Beach is close to other famous Uluwatu beaches like Bingin Beach, Dreamland Beach, and Padang Padang Right.
There is parking available near the entrance to the beach. It's usually managed by local staff.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small entrance fee (around IDR 10,000 per person) to access Padang Padang Beach. Make sure to have cash on hand as card payments are not accepted.
Padang Padang Beach is generally accessible throughout the day, from sunrise to sunset. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Currently, tickets for Padang Padang Beach are purchased on-site at the entrance. Online booking is not typically available.
Information on specific discounts for children or groups is not widely advertised. The entry fee is generally a small, fixed amount per person.
The entry fee grants you access to the beach itself. It does not typically include services like sunbed rentals or surf equipment.
🎫 🏄 Surfing & Activities
Padang Padang is world-renowned for its surf breaks, particularly 'Padang Padang Right,' which offers consistent, powerful waves suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers.
While Padang Padang is famous for its challenging waves, there's a gentler section known as 'Padang Padang Left' which can be more forgiving for beginners, especially during certain tides. Surf lessons are also available.
Surf lessons can range from around 600,000 IDR for a 1.5-hour session, often including a trainer, rash guard, and board. Prices can vary.
The beach is great for swimming in its calm, clear waters, sunbathing on the golden sand, and exploring the unique rock formations. It's also a very photogenic spot.
While the water is clear, snorkeling is not the primary activity here. The waves can be strong, and the focus is more on surfing and swimming.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The narrow cliff entrance, the dramatic rock formations framing the beach, and the golden sand with turquoise waters are all incredibly photogenic. The 'Eat, Pray, Love' filming location is also a popular spot. 
Yes, the beach offers beautiful sunset views as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the ocean and cliffs.
Its unique setting between towering cliffs, the narrow cave-like entrance, and the pristine golden sand create a dramatic and stunning visual appeal.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone to avoid issues.
Padang Padang Beach was a filming location for the popular movie 'Eat, Pray, Love,' adding to its fame and appeal for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are small local vendors and warungs (cafes) near the beach selling drinks, snacks, and some local food.
You'll find typical beachside fare like refreshing drinks (water, beer), snacks, and some simple Indonesian dishes.
Bringing your own water and snacks is generally allowed and recommended, especially if you plan to spend a longer time there.
While the beach itself has local warungs, the surrounding Uluwatu area offers a range of upscale restaurants and resorts with diverse culinary options.
It's highly recommended to bring plenty of water, as it can get hot and humid. You can also purchase drinks from the vendors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families interested in gentle water activities, the calmer sections of the beach are suitable for swimming. Be aware of the rocky patches in the water, and consider water shoes for added comfort.
🏄 Surfers
If you're an experienced surfer, this is a must-visit. For beginners, the 'Padang Padang Left' offers a more forgiving wave, and surf lessons are readily available. 📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 Capture the iconic 'Eat, Pray, Love' filming spot or the surfers riding the waves. Visit during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Access to Padang Padang Beach
The descent involves a series of steps carved into the rock, making the approach feel quite dramatic and memorable. This unique access point contributes to the beach's charm and its reputation as a hidden gem. However, it's worth noting that the stairs can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or those carrying heavy bags.
Social media content often highlights this dramatic entrance, with many creators capturing the moment they step through the rocks to reveal the beautiful beach beyond.
It's a key part of the Padang Padang experience and a major draw for photographers and travelers seeking unique landscapes. Surfing Conditions and Etiquette at Padang Padang
The wave quality is highly dependent on swell direction and tide, making it a spot that requires some experience and knowledge of surf conditions. For those less experienced, 'Padang Padang Left' offers a gentler wave, making it more accessible for beginners and longboarders, especially during specific tidal conditions.
Many travelers come to Bali specifically for its surf, and Padang Padang is a must-visit on any surfer's itinerary.
Remember to check surf reports and conditions before heading out to make the most of your time in the water. Navigating Crowds and Best Times to Visit
Late afternoon can also be a good time to visit, as some of the day-trippers start to leave, and the lighting becomes ideal for photography.
Social media often showcases the beach at its most idyllic, but real traveler reviews emphasize the importance of timing to avoid disappointment.
Planning your visit around these less crowded times will significantly enhance your experience of this beautiful Balinese gem. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit