Uluwatu is full of culture, good vibes and beautiful scenery. One thing for sure is that you’ll likely spend a lot of time at the beach or exploring the coastline. Here is a list of the top 19 things to do in Uluwatu, carefully curated to give you the best experience that the town has to offer:

1. Kecak Fire Dance at Sunset 🔥

One of the most famous and fascinating displays of Balinese culture is the Kecak fire dance. It is performed in several spots around Bali but by far the most iconic setting has to be Uluwatu Temple, where you can watch the performance perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the ocean.

Kecak is brought to life by a massive chorus of 50-60 men, rhythmically chanting “cak-cak-cak” in unison. As the sun dips below the horizon, the performance retells scenes from the Hindu epic, Ramayana, following Prince Rama’s journey to rescue Sita.

As night falls, the show reaches its finale, where they light bamboo torches, illuminating the temple with a beautiful orange glow – an unforgettable sight against the ocean backdrop.

A large nighttime cultural performance with a ring of fire at the centre and a large audience watching in a circular formation. It's the number one must-do thing in Uluwatu

2. Visit Uluwatu Temple 🛕

If you choose to catch a Kecak show somewhere else on your Bali trip then you should still make sure to stop by the Uluwatu Temple while staying in the area.

As one of Bali’s nine directional temples, Uluwatu Temple is pretty popular among tourists and its beautiful architecture and scenery make it easy to see why – it’s on the edge of a 70-metre tall cliff and is surrounded by some beautiful clifftop paths.

If you decide to go for a walk, you definitely won’t regret it, but do be careful of the mischievous monkeys in the area. They are known for snatching hats, sunglasses and phones! And if they nab something from you, your only hope of getting your belongings back is to offer a generous snack – they’re smart monkeys!

3. Grab a Drink and Some Food at Local Cafés 🍵

The Bali coffee and brunch scene is off the scale in comparison to many other South East Asian countries and Uluwatu showcases some of the very best.

Whether you’re searching for a chill workspace to enjoy your old favourites over a work meeting or want to find a more vibrant location where you can try a whole host of new snacks and drinks while making friends, Uluwatu has you covered.

Ours – Ours has a unique blend of Balinese and Scandinavian architecture, serving up great takes on local dishes and Mediterranean favourites, from homemade pasta to fresh seafood. Ours has a great vibe, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends and family.
Ulu Artisan – If you enjoy a good, high-quality coffee brewed by experts then you’ll love Artisan. With a quiet, laid-back atmosphere, it is the perfect place for a slow morning or intense work session.
Drifter – Drifter is a blended café, surf shop and social space. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat, make some new friends and enjoy the views. Their menu features healthy and indulgent options from fresh salads to juicy homemade burgers. Make sure to grab a gelato while you’re here too – they have so many great flavours!
The Loft – Focusing on organic, nourishing foods, The Loft prides itself on being a great brunch spot, specialising in smoothies, fry-ups and pancake stacks. With a warm, social vibe, it’s the perfect place to meet fellow travellers.
Suka Espresso – Suka Espresso is one of Uluwatu’s most popular cafés. Inspired by Australian brunches, Suka Espresso offers the perfect atmosphere to unwind after a beach day. With some of the island’s best expert brews, hearty plates and tropical smoothies flowing, Suka Espresso is definitely worth a visit. Brekki deal here under 55k sets for those on a budget.

4. Rent a Campervan and Road Trip Uluwatu’s Famous Cliffs 🚙

Exploring Uluwatu by campervan is the best way to soak in the region’s breathtaking coastal scenery at your own pace. With rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and epic sunset spots, a road trip around Uluwatu is a guaranteed, unforgettable adventure.

Along your way, make a stop at Tanah Barak Cliff which is known for its dramatic limestone formations and amazing ocean views. Make sure to have your camera at the ready when heading down through the narrow pass near the beach – you’re bound to get some breathtaking photos for your Instagram.

Travel onwards to Jalan Hill – and make sure to hit it at sunset to watch golden hour reflect along the cliffs. Uluwatu translates to “rock at the end of the world” that’s why it’s so famous for these cliffsides.

A dramatic coastal cliff landscape with a pathway winding along the edge, overlooking turquoise waters.

5. Watch the Sunset Over a Tasty Meal 🌅

Balinese sunsets are unbeatable, especially in Uluwatu, and enjoying the views over a delicious meal just hits differently. Here are some of our top recommendations for places to dine during golden hour:

Single Fin – Single Fin is a chic restaurant with its own cliffside terrace. Famous for delicious vegan food, smoothie bowls and local cuisine you’ll be able to find a tasty and health-conscious meal to enjoy as the sun dips to the ocean in front of you.
Kellys Warung – Kellys Warung is the perfect spot for an evening meal after enjoying the surf. Located right by the ocean on Bingin Beach, Kellys Warung is known for homemade salads, burgers and falafel – the perfect way to refuel after a busy beach day.
Lucky Fish Lounge – Serving up some of the best fresh fish barbecues on the island is Lucky Fish Lounge. Don’t worry if you aren’t a fish fanatic, Lucky Fish Lounge also serves up some great takes on Western foods – perfect for fussy eaters!
La Terrazza – Sometimes you just can’t beat a good old pizza and La Terrazza is the best place in Uluwatu to squash your craving. With wonderful ocean views, La Terrazza provides the most authentic Italian experience that you’ll get while halfway across the world!

6. Take a Workout Class 🏋️‍♀️

Bali has a love for fitness and movement. Even if you don’t consider yourself super sporty or into high-intensity workouts, there’s something for everyone in Uluwatu. From strength training to mindful movement, the options are endless.

For a stylish, open-air gym experience, check out Bamboo Fitness, where you can train with top-quality equipment in a beautiful bamboo structure.

If you’re after a more intense session, then Bali Training Centre offers everything from Muay Thai to circuit training. Or for a more well-rounded approach to fitness, MOVE360 combines strength, mobility, and recovery-focused workouts to keep you feeling your best.

Whether you’re into lifting, stretching, or just staying active while enjoying everything that Bali has to offer, Uluwatu has plenty of great fitness options.

7. Stay at a Surf Camp 🏄‍♀️

Lots of travellers flock to Bali for its surf scene, but even if you’ve never tried catching waves before then you should definitely give it a go while visiting the island. Uluwatu has plenty of surf camps that cater to different skill levels, from beginner to expert. Here are our top suggestions:

Dreamsea – Perched on a cliff overlooking the world-famous Pandang Padang, Dreamsea’s hotel offers a luxury surf camp experience. With yoga sessions, fresh quality food, live music sessions and expert surf guides on the waves, Dreamsea is the perfect place to throw yourself into the surfer lifestyle.
Cari Surf Camp – With personalised surf plans, beautiful accommodation and a prime location near Bingin Beach, you can’t ask for much more from Cari Surf Camp. Suitable for all surf experience levels, Cari promises the experience of a lifetime at one of Bali’s top surf spots.
Padang Padang Surf Camp – With modern, stylish accommodation and highly experienced surf guides, you can choose to take day lessons or select a longer stay to throw yourself into the surf life at Padang Padang Surf Camp.

8. Go on a Night Out at Hatch 🕺

If you’re looking for a party night out in Uluwatu, then Hatch is the number one place to be. This vibrant, jungle-inspired bar is known for its colourful decor, lively atmosphere, and delicious cocktails.

With a spacious outdoor area, neon lights, and psychedelic murals, Hatch is one of the most popular nightclubs in Uluwatu. It regularly hosts live DJs, themed parties, and fire performances, aiming to keep energy high well into the early hours of the morning.

With a mix of locals, expats, and travellers, Hatch is always buzzing. Don’t worry if you’ve no friends to go with, you’re guaranteed to make some while you’re there!

9. Visit Kellys Warung for Saturday Sessions 🍸

If late-night parties aren’t quite your thing but you’d still like to be social then Kellys Warung might be the place for you, especially for their legendary Saturday Sessions.

This spot is known for its relaxed vibe, delicious food and stunning views, transforming into the ultimate chill zone every Saturday. With live music, fruity cocktails and a great crowd, Kellys Warung is the perfect place to wind down after a busy week.

Make sure to arrive early if you want the best beachfront seats as the Saturday Sessions are very popular among travellers and the locals. This will also allow you to enjoy the sunset before the night of music begins. Located on Bingin Beach so you can surf or beach day then go for sunset session.

10. Play Ball at Island Padel 🎾

Bali is one of the main havens of padel – Instagram and TikTok’s new upcoming sport and Uluwatu’s Island Padel is a great place to give it a go.

Island Padel has four panoramic courts, an outdoor café and a shop for all your padel-playing needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or want to try your hand at padel for the first time, Island Padel has a great community vibe which invites everyone to enjoy their courts.

Trust us, it’s super super fun!

11. Catch Some Live Music

There are plenty of great bars and restaurants around Uluwatu that treat guests to live music sessions, especially in the evenings.

You’re bound to come across some live DJ-ing or acoustic bands while in Uluwatu. If you’re looking for some of the best then we recommend The Place with No Name which hosts live music each night between 7.30 pm and 10.30 pm.

Cashew Tree on a Thursday evening is another great suggestion with a DJ or live band performing while guests dine on healthy and tasty organic meals.

Ulu Garden and La Terrazza are also renowned for their music tastes with more relaxed, acoustic vibes at these locations a few evenings a week.

12. Chill at the Beach

Sometimes all you need is a relaxing day at the beach and Uluwatu has so many amazing options on offer. Here are our top suggestions if you’re looking for a chill beachy day:

Dreamland – Now officially known as New Kuta Beach, Dreamland is exactly as its name suggests. With great waves for surfing, clean white sand and a perfect setting for a sunset, you can’t get much better than this!
Bingin – Bingin is a very popular surfing spot and is a bit of a hidden gem near Uluwatu. While there’s a bit of a challenging walk to reach it with lots of uneven rocks, it is well-worth it when you arrive. Definitely bring your surfboard with you to this one if you have it!
Suluban Beach – Also accessed by a bit of a steep descent and located amongst some beautiful limestone rockforms is Suluban Beach. Home to great waves, especially if you love “barrel riding”, surfers flock here in peak season. Be warned though, there are some very strong currents so swimming is not recommended.
Balagan Beach – Balagan Beach is definitely Insta-worthy with golden sand, bright blue water and beautiful sunsets. Attracting surfers, swimmers and sunbathers, Balagan Beach is a great all-rounder.
Nyang Nyang Beach – Nyang Nyang is a remote, hidden beach that you should definitely attempt to visit if you’re looking for a relaxed day by the ocean. With calm, clear waters, pristine sand and luscious greenery, you can’t ask for much more.
Gunung Payung Beach – Gunung Payung is another beach located at the bottom of a steep climb. But there is a bus service which you can take if you want to skip the walk! With white sand, crystal blue water and great sunbathing potential, Gunung Payung Beach is another great option for a chill beach day.

13. Eat Local Buffet Style

One of the best ways to experience authentic Balinese flavours is by eating at a local warung, and in Uluwatu, you’ll find some amazing buffet-style spots where you can load up your plate with fresh, homemade dishes.

Ye Ye’s Warung is a favourite among locals and travellers, offering a delicious selection of Indonesian dishes in a relaxed, home-like setting. You can pick from classics like nasi goreng, grilled fish, tempeh, and a variety of flavorful curries. Pile your plate as high as you like and don’t be scared to try new things!

Another must-visit is Warung Local, known for its affordable and tasty buffet where you can mix and match different dishes. With rice, noodles, vegetable dishes and meats, it’s the perfect place to get a taste of Bali’s traditional food without breaking the bank.

14. Spend the Day at a Beach Club

Beach clubs are very popular all across Bali and Uluwatu is no exception. Beach clubs are the perfect place to sprawl out and relax in the sun, sip on cocktails and enjoy the ocean views. Here are our top beach club recommendations:

Savaya – Savaya is on the pricier side for beach club entrance but the experience is worth it. Nestled on the edges of the jungle and upon limestone cliffs hundreds of metres above the ocean, you can’t beat the beautiful views. Do note that the age limit is strictly 21 and over.
Ulu Cliffhouse – Ulu Cliffhouse has an incredible infinity pool, luxurious sunbeds and beautiful ocean views. With great weekday rates, especially if you’re visiting as a group, it is a great option if you’re on a slightly tighter budget.
Single Fin – Single Fin’s Beach Club promises a relaxing experience for all of its guests, prioritising good food, chill space and breathtaking views. With no entry fee, you’re welcome to enjoy the beach club and as much as you’d like without feeling like you need to get your money’s worth.
El Kabron – El Kabron proclaims itself as the best and most luxurious beach club in all of Bali. Known for its Mediterranean-inspired menu, infinity pool, and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a stylish day out. Whether you’re sipping on cocktails, enjoying Spanish tapas, or just taking in the ocean views, El Kabron promises to treat you like royalty.
Sundays – Sundays Beach Club in Uluwatu promotes a more active beach experience than some of the others on this list. On top of their amazing chill spaces, Sundays offers paddleboarding, beach volleyball and surfing along their private white sand bay.
Palmilla Beach Club – Situated with an amazing cliffside backdrop, Palmilla Beach Club is definitely up there when considering aesthetics. With mid-range prices, delicious Italian food and friendly staff, Palmilla would make a great option for anyone looking to experience Bali’s beach club scene.

15. Go Shopping in Local Markets

Uluwatu is home to some fantastic local markets where you can shop for unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, and fresh produce while soaking up a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re after boho clothing, artisan jewelry, or an organic treat, the weekend markets in Uluwatu are a must-visit.

The Sunday Market at Hatch is one of the most popular, featuring everything from handmade ornaments to locally designed fashion and eco-friendly products. With live music, delicious food stalls, and a fun atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday morning.

For a more health-focused market, check out the Sunday Market at Alchemy, known for its organic produce, health-conscious snacks, and natural skincare products. And if you’re around on a Saturday, the Saturday Market at Seed is a great place to browse handmade goods, vintage decor, and local textiles.

An elderly woman with silver hair wearing a yellow-flowered green blouse standing in what appears to be a traditional market stall or shop surrounded by colourful fabrics, decorations and various goods.

16. Visit Casual Pool Cafés

If you’re looking for a place to cool off, sip on a refreshing drink, and relax in style, Uluwatu’s casual pool cafés are the perfect spot. With tropical cocktails, delicious food, and inviting pools, these laid-back hangouts are great for unwinding between more adventurous activities.

Banana Lounge is a hidden gem with a sleek design, crystal-clear pool, and comfy sunbeds. It’s the perfect place to spend a chilled afternoon, whether you’re going somewhere for a casual meal or having coconuts and snacks by the pool.

For a more boutique experience, head to Gooseberry, a stylish café-meets-pool-lounge hidden away near Bingin Beach. Known for its hearty brunches, specialty coffee, and chill atmosphere, it’s a great spot to take a dip, fuel up on food, and escape the heat of the busy beaches.

17. Stay in a Paradise Accommodation

Uluwatu has some seriously stunning places to stay, whether you’re after a cliffside villa with ocean views or something a little more unique like glamping under the stars.

The accommodations in Uluwatu offer a perfect mix of comfort and luxury, making it an ideal spot for a getaway where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the tropical vibes – for a lot cheaper than in the West!

Gravity Bali – located right by the top surf spots, Gravity Bali hosts amazing suites and bungalows which look like something straight out of a luxury travel magazine. Gravity Bali promises privacy and a luxury experience, allowing you to enjoy the views, chill out under the sun and enjoy 5* facilities.
Gypsea Bali – Providing a more cosy and bohemian vibe, Gypsea Bali has a chill, beachy atmosphere, providing private bungalows and villas in Bingin. With beautiful pools, a full service restaurant and in-house massage packages, you can’t ask for much more luxury than this!
The Suites by the Young Villas – Located right in the centre of Uluwatu, The Suites by the Young Villas provides spacious, modern villas that come with everything you need to unwind. The private pools and lush surroundings make it a great choice for anyone wanting a blend of luxury and convenience close to Uluwatu’s best spots. If you’re looking for a home away from home, then definitely take a look!
Glamping at Bubble Hotel – For something a little different, check out Glamping at Bubble Hotel. You’ll stay in clear bubble tents, so you can sleep under the stars and wake up to some jaw-dropping views of the bright blue ocean. A stay at the Bubble Hotel is a fun, unique way to experience Uluwatu while still enjoying comfort and luxury.
Villa To the Moon and Back – If you want to get away from it all and really enjoy some peace and quiet, Villa To the Moon and Back is a great option. With villas housing up to 6 guests, you could go all out on the ultimate friend trip or just enjoy the extra space to yourself. Set in a tranquil area, the villas offer stunning views and a cosy atmosphere – perfect for those looking for a more private retreat in Uluwatu.

18. Take a Yoga Class

Uluwatu’s relaxed vibe makes it the perfect place to unwind and recentre your mind and body through yoga. Whether you’re a yoga master or just want to give it a go, there are plenty of welcoming studios offering yoga classes for all skill levels.

The Space Bali is a peaceful studio that concentrates on breathwork, meditation and several different styles of yoga like acro, reiki and vinyasa. The space also houses lots of coworking spaces should you need to catch up on your emails before or after your session.

Other great yoga spaces include Alchemy Yoga which offers a peaceful setting with classes designed to help you feel balanced and refreshed, and Yoga Searcher, which is an eco-friendly retreat space with beautiful open-air studios and a variety of classes throughout the day.

19. Have a Spa Day

With so much to see and do around Uluwatu, a spa day can be a great way to wind down and recharge your body. Whether you’re looking for an invigorating massage or would just like a fresh pedicure, here are the best spas and salons in Uluwatu:

SPRING Spa – SPRING Spa has locations all over Bali, offering a huge list of treatment options and packages. Whether you’re after a deep tissue massage, a rejuvenating facial, or a full-body scrub, this spa has plenty of options to leave you feeling refreshed.
D’Nail Bar – If your nails are in dire need of some TLC then we highly recommend a trip to D’Nail Bar to get a fresh set. Prioritising a girly, cosy environment, a trip to D’Nail Bar feels more like a teenage sleepover, free from the noise and hustle and bustle of other nail salons in Uluwatu.
FRESH! – FRESH! has beauticians that specialise in pretty much everything! From haircuts to lash extensions to full massage packages. One thing is for sure, you’ll leave the beauty lounge feeling FRESH!
U – U is a simple, boho spa and massage salon that offers facials, massages, waxing services and a whole host of other treatments. With very well-praised staff, U is a go-to for many travellers looking to show themselves some love!

Is Uluwatu Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Uluwatu is one of Bali’s most interesting locations. With stunning natural beauty and a laid back vibe, you’re pretty much guaranteed to love the town from the get-go.

Uluwatu’s stunning cliffs, beautiful beaches and world-class surf spots draw in thousands of travellers every single day and it can be pretty hard to leave Uluwatu behind once you arrive.

A traditional Balinese fire dance performer in ceremonial costume jumping or dancing over flames at night, creating a dramatic scene with sparks flying.

Beyond the beaches, you can also verse yourself in Balinese culture by watching the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple and exploring the local markets for souvenirs. Or recharge from your Bali adventures with spa or beach club days.

With a combination of chill and excitement, Uluwatu offers a unique escape from the more tourist-heavy areas of Bali, making it worth visiting for anyone looking to experience the island’s best side.

How Many Days in Uluwatu?

To really get a feel for Uluwatu and enjoy all it has to offer, spending at least 3 to 4 days here is ideal. This gives you time to explore the beaches, visit attractions like the Uluwatu Temple, and unwind by signing up for a yoga session or a spa day.

If you’re into surfing, you might want to extend your stay to catch some waves at iconic spots like Padang Padang or Bingin Beach. There are plenty of surf camps in Uluwatu that offer package stays combining guided surf lessons, accommodation and other activities.

Whether you’re coming for a quick getaway or a more extended retreat, Uluwatu offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. To get a good feel for the place we recommend 3-4 days but if you have more time on your hands then you could definitely extend your stay!

A person standing on a rocky outcrop wearing a white vest and purple sarong, looking out towards the ocean with Uluwatu Temple visible on the clifftop in the background.

Best Time to Visit Uluwatu

The best time to visit Uluwatu is during the dry season, which runs from April to September. During this period, the weather is sunny, with low humidity, making it perfect for beach days, exploring, and outdoor activities like surfing. The dry season also offers clear skies which makes it so much easier to enjoy the glorious sunsets and the opportunity to enjoy Uluwatu’s beach clubs and cliffside spots.

The high season in Bali is between July and August, so if you prefer a quieter experience, visiting in the shoulder months would be a lot better – and cheaper! You’ll enjoy the peace of fewer crowds while still having the ideal weather for exploring.

Though Uluwatu is beautiful year-round, visiting during the rainy season (November to March) can be a bit trickier due to more frequent downpours. However, if you don’t mind the occasional rain and are set on avoiding the busiest periods, the off-season can also offer a more peaceful vibe. Most places and activities are still offered during the rainy season so don’t let it put you off if you’re set on visiting during these months.

FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions related to things to do in Uluwatu along with our expert answers to them.

Is Uluwatu or Canggu better?

It really depends what you’re after. Uluwatu’s more dramatic with insane cliffs and quieter beaches. Canggu’s busier with better cafes and digital nomad vibes. Surfers love both, but Uluwatu feels more raw and untouched while Canggu has more conveniences.

Does Uluwatu have good nightlife?

Uluwatu’s nightlife is more chilled than crazy. Single Fin for Sunday sunset sessions is legendary, and there are beach clubs like Savaya for daytime parties. But it’s spread out and definitely not a party-all-night destination like the Kuta area.

Can you swim at the beaches in Uluwatu?

Some Uluwatu beaches are swimmer-friendly (Padang Padang, Bingin), but most have strong currents and reef breaks meant for surfing. Always check local conditions and warning flags. The tides change everything – what’s swimmable in the morning might not be later in the day.

Conclusion: Things to Do in Uluwatu

And there you have it, a complete list of the best things to do in Uluwatu.

On our group trips, Uluwatu is the final stop. And we might be biased, but we think we save the best ‘til last.

We absolutely love Uluwatu and hopefully, after doing all of the things on this list, you will too. It’s an incredible part of Bali and one of the coolest places in all of Indonesia.

If you want to share our love for Uluwatu, make sure to book onto one of our group tours in Bali where we end our tours in Uluwatu, so you can add any of these amazing things to do after our trip ends.

Whether you’re looking to travel solo or bring a friend along for the ride, our group tours in South East Asia & Australia are the perfect balance of culture, adventure, chill time & nightlife. You’ll arrive as strangers and leave as the best of friends.

Here are a few useful links to help with that planning;
👉🏼 View all Trips
👉🏼 Frequently Asked Questions
👉🏼 Check out our Reviews
👉🏼 Why choose us?
👉🏼 How does it all work?

If you’ve got any burning questions or just need a little travel inspo… jump in the DM’s with the team via either Whatsapp, Livechat or Instagram.

Written by Charlotte Lock

Charlotte is one of our travel writers here at Feel Free Travel. She loves travelling to new places and writing about her experiences along the way. As a Geography graduate, Charlotte especially loves visiting geological wonders around the world such as volcanoes, caves and mountains.

Posted, 13th April 2025

Written by Charlotte Lock

Charlotte is one of our travel writers here at Feel Free Travel. She loves travelling to new places and writing about her experiences along the way. As a Geography graduate, Charlotte especially loves visiting geological wonders around the world such as volcanoes, caves and mountains.

Posted, 13th April 2025

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