Uluwatu
Iconic cliffside temple with dramatic ocean views, famous for sunsets and traditional dance performances.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Uluwatu
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic cliffside temple with dramatic ocean views, famous for sunsets and traditional dance performances.
"Magical place with STUNNING views. Will be coming back for sure."
🐒 Secure Your Valuables!
Monkeys are crafty thieves! Keep phones, glasses, and hats close. :iphone:
💃 Dress Code for Temple
Wear respectful attire. Sarongs are available at the entrance if needed. :abaya:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu)
Cliffside overlooking the Indian Ocean
Iconic Hindu temple with breathtaking ocean views, especially at sunset.
Kecak Fire Dance
Uluwatu Temple Amphitheater
Mesmerizing traditional dance performance against a stunning ocean backdrop at sunset.
Suluban Beach (Blue Point Beach)
Beneath dramatic cliffs
A hidden gem with a unique cave entrance, perfect for surfing and enjoying dramatic coastal scenery.
Malini Uluwatu
Cliffside dining
Dine with unparalleled ocean vistas and exquisite seafood as the sun sets.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Monkey Business: Guard Your Belongings!
Sunset Spectacle: Book Ahead!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐒 Secure Your Valuables!
Monkeys are crafty thieves! Keep phones, glasses, and hats close. :iphone:
💃 Dress Code for Temple
Wear respectful attire. Sarongs are available at the entrance if needed. :abaya:
🌅 Sunset is a Must-See
Plan your visit for sunset for the most spectacular views. :city_sunset:
🌊 Surfer's Paradise
Uluwatu is renowned for its world-class surf breaks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐒 Secure Your Valuables!
Monkeys are crafty thieves! Keep phones, glasses, and hats close. :iphone:
💃 Dress Code for Temple
Wear respectful attire. Sarongs are available at the entrance if needed. :abaya:
🌅 Sunset is a Must-See
Plan your visit for sunset for the most spectacular views. :city_sunset:
🌊 Surfer's Paradise
Uluwatu is renowned for its world-class surf breaks.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy coffee and ocean views at cafes like Delpi Cafe. :coffee:
🚗 Scooter for Freedom
Rent a scooter for easy exploration of beaches and cafes. :motorcycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Uluwatu is celebrated for its stunning cliffside temple, breathtaking ocean views, and vibrant sunset spectacles. Visitors rave about the dramatic scenery and the captivating Kecak dance. However, the aggressive monkeys and the potential for crowds at popular spots are frequently mentioned drawbacks.
"🐒 Monkeys love prescription eyewear because they have a secret library!😉
I very much enjoyed the show in the amphitheatre overlooking thenocean at sunset.
Do try to arrive by 5:15-5:30 for the 6 o'clock show. Attendants will encourage people to sit closer several times so that as many people as possible can sit.
Once the show begins:
- Read the information sheet to know what is going on and appreciate an ancient story being told in a majestic context by a group of highly skilled performers. Accept that it is unfamiliar and enjoy.
- Do not chat loudly, but wisper with your friends.
- Do not watch Tik Tok, Instagram, etc with the volume on if you are bored.
- Do no stand-up to capture something, as others also want to see.
- And, though we admire assertive people who have the gumption to ask a whole row of people to "please move down... we also want to see the show", doing so when the show is already on and complaining "why are they asking me to sush-down?" when you keeps complaining about not having enough room is the definition of "disruptive". You are guests to something unique even though you have paid to attend.
- Don't expect the actors to jump into the crowd or to recruit you (hint hint)"
Valérie
"Stunning cliffside temple with ocean views and cultural charm.
Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is one of Bali’s most iconic sea temples, perched dramatically on the edge of a 70-meter-high cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. The views here are absolutely breathtaking, especially during sunset, when the sky glows and waves crash against the rocks below — a photographer’s dream!
The temple itself is sacred to the Balinese and holds deep spiritual significance. Visitors are required to wear a sarong, which is available at the entrance, and to be respectful as this is an active place of worship.
One of the highlights is the Kecak fire dance performance, held daily at sunset. It’s a mesmerizing and powerful show set against the backdrop of the ocean — not to be missed!
There are wild monkeys roaming the temple grounds. While they can be amusing, they’re also notorious for grabbing sunglasses, hats, and even phones, so hold on to your belongings.
The paths around the cliffs are well-maintained, offering amazing viewpoints, but can get slippery in the rain, so be cautious.
Crowds do gather at peak hours, but the overall experience is magical. A visit to Uluwatu Temple is a perfect mix of natural beauty, culture, and spirituality — one of the best experiences in Bali."
Yo’lovchi!
"Absolutely unreal views along the coastline and amazing overall experience to witness the cultural side of Bali... but beware of the monkeys! They can definitely get up to no good, plenty of stolen sunglasses around the grounds."
Zachary Rowell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Uluwatu is by taxi or ride-sharing app like Gojek or Grab. Renting a scooter is also a popular and affordable option for exploring the area once you're there. The journey can take 45-90 minutes depending on traffic.
Renting a scooter is highly recommended for getting around Uluwatu, as attractions are spread out. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available, but may be less frequent in some areas.
For flexibility, renting a scooter is ideal for hopping between beaches like Suluban, Bingin, and Padang Padang. Otherwise, you'll rely on taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Public transport is limited in Uluwatu. Most visitors opt for private drivers, taxis, ride-sharing apps, or scooter rentals for convenient travel.
From Denpasar Airport (DPS), it typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Uluwatu by car or taxi, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for Uluwatu Temple, typically around IDR 50,000 per person. This fee includes access to the temple grounds and the surrounding cliff paths.
Yes, tickets for the Kecak fire dance performance at Uluwatu Temple are purchased separately from the temple entrance fee. It's advisable to buy them in advance, especially during peak season, as shows can sell out.
Uluwatu Temple is generally open from around 7 AM to 7 PM daily. The Kecak dance performances typically start around sunset, so check the exact timings.
Yes, visitors must wear respectful attire that covers their shoulders and knees. Sarongs are provided at the entrance for those who need them.
While some vendors offer online bookings, it's often easiest to purchase Kecak dance tickets directly at the temple entrance or from authorized ticket sellers on-site. Arrive early to secure good seats.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cliffside paths around Uluwatu Temple offer stunning panoramic views for photos. Suluban Beach, with its cave entrance, and various cliff-top cafes also provide picturesque backdrops.
Yes, Uluwatu Temple is home to a large population of wild monkeys. They are known to be bold and may try to steal belongings, so be very cautious with your possessions.
Uluwatu offers beautiful beaches like Suluban and Bingin for surfing and relaxing, cliffside cafes and restaurants for dining with a view, and spa experiences.
While the dramatic cliffs can be a concern, families can enjoy the beaches and the cultural experience of the Kecak dance. Keep a close eye on children due to the monkeys and cliff edges.
It's important to dress modestly out of respect for the sacred site. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Sarongs are available for rent or included with entry if needed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
For sunset dining with incredible views, Malini Uluwatu and Morabito Art Cliff are highly recommended. For a more casual vibe, check out cafes near Bingin Beach or Suluban Beach.
Yes, Uluwatu has many charming cafes. Delpi Cafe offers great espresso and surf views, while Le Cliff provides a pretty spot for coconuts and ocean gazing.
Seafood is a highlight, especially at cliffside restaurants. You'll also find plenty of Indonesian dishes, healthy cafes, and international cuisine options.
While some cliffside restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable meals at local warungs (small eateries) and cafes scattered throughout the area.
Many cafes and restaurants in Uluwatu cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options. Look for places that emphasize fresh, local ingredients.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most magical light for photographing the temple and coastline. Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds and soft light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cliff views and temple. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife shots (monkeys) or distant surf.
The main viewpoint at Uluwatu Temple, the cave entrance to Suluban Beach, and the cliff-edge cafes all offer unique photographic opportunities.
During the Kecak dance, use a camera with good low-light performance and a fast shutter speed. Be mindful of other photographers and avoid using flash.
The main challenge is the aggressive monkeys, which can snatch cameras. Also, the strong sun can create harsh shadows, making golden hour crucial for softer light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking accommodation with family-friendly amenities, as some areas are more geared towards surfers or couples. The Kecak fire dance can be a captivating experience for older children, offering a glimpse into Balinese culture.
🏄 Surfers and Beach Lovers
+1 Many surf camps and schools operate in the area, offering lessons and board rentals. Don't miss exploring the unique access points to beaches like Suluban, which involves walking through a cave.
For those who prefer to relax and watch the action, numerous cliffside cafes and restaurants provide perfect vantage points. Remember to check tide charts, as the character of the beaches can change significantly throughout the day.💖 Couples and Romantic Getaways
+2Consider staying in boutique hotels or villas with ocean views, many of which offer a serene and intimate atmosphere.
For ultimate relaxation, book a couples' spa treatment, perhaps followed by a dip in an ice bath or jacuzzi. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Uluwatu's Beaches
Bingin Beach offers a more laid-back vibe, with cozy cafes perched on the cliffside overlooking the surf, making it ideal for watching the waves and enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. Other notable beaches include Padang Padang Beach, famous for its picturesque setting and clear waters, and Dreamland Beach, known for its wide sandy expanse and excellent surf conditions.
Many of these beaches are best accessed by scooter or a short trek down cliff paths, adding to their allure as hidden gems. Remember to check tide times, as some beaches can be submerged at high tide. The Magic of Sunset in Uluwatu
+2 The Uluwatu Temple itself provides a majestic backdrop for sunset, especially when combined with the mesmerizing Kecak fire dance performance held daily as daylight fades. Beyond the famous venues, numerous cliff-top cafes and viewpoints offer equally stunning vistas. Le Cliff is a charming spot to enjoy a coconut and watch the surfers, while Mana at Pantai Suluban also boasts incredible ocean views.
Arriving early is key, as these prime sunset locations can get crowded. The combination of the vast Indian Ocean, the rugged cliffs, and the vibrant sky creates an unforgettable experience. Navigating Uluwatu's Culture and Spirituality
A major cultural highlight is the Kecak fire dance, performed daily at sunset within the temple complex. This captivating performance, with its rhythmic chanting and dramatic storytelling, is set against the stunning ocean panorama, making it a truly immersive experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit