Joanna James
Beautiful Bali for all its popularity can still surprise a perceptive traveller with a few hidden gems of beaches. Here are 5 such coastal gems worth visiting.
Padang Padang lies in the middle of Bingin and Uluwatu and its prominent feature is a 100 metre long silky stretch accessible only via a downward spiral of steps through a romantic, hollow rock which serves as the entrance. Locals call this beach Pantai Labuan Sait and it is a great surf spot. If you're staying at a resort such as Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort, Padang Padang is only 5 minutes away. A number of international surf events take place in Padang Padang. If you've booked a stay at a Bali beach resort Uluwatu, don't miss the chance to descend upon a beautiful stretch of sand through a rock entrance and a hollow.
If you want to combine diving and snorkelling with a bit of culture, go to Padangbai. The scattering of white sandy beaches is ideal for days of bliss on the beach while the vibrant marine life in the surrounding sea will leave you enthralled. The most beloved spot in Padangbai is the blue lagoon, a miniature bay with a small stretch of sand. You can also visit the temples in the area. The most important temple is called Pura Silayukti and dates back to the 11th century. The temples known by the name Pura Tanjungsari and the one called Pura Telaga Mas are up on a hill. You can ascend towards these once you take leave of Pura Silayukti.
Surfers will fall in love with Balangan. The breathtaking coastal stretch of gold-tinged sand is flanked by limestone cliffs (with thriving vegetation) and a reef. Balangan is only separated from neighbouring Dreamland by a slight headland and shares the beautiful vicinity. The headland is part of the New Kuta Golf Course. Veteran surfers around the world ride the waves near Balangan and the south-western Bukit coastline as well as Dreamland's breaks.
A canopy of overhanging cliff face shades the beach. You can descend onto the silky sand by climbing down some stairs through tapered gaps in the rocks. You can use this beach to venture into paddling and surf towards the neighbouring reef breaks. To reach Suluban take the shuttle or hire a taxi which is near the end of Jalan Mamo, vicinity shared by Padang Padang as well as Uluwatu. The view of the harmonious blend of green, blue, golden tinged beige, turquoise green and occasional black of the rocks is breathtaking. You will also find a few restaurants and shops on the cliff. You can explore mini caves on the cliff, but remember to only descend towards the beach during low tide.
This is one of Bali's most secluded beaches and a beautiful one at that. It is the precipitous climb to get to the beach that attracts romantic adventure lovers to this part of Bali. The massive limestone caves where rock shrines preside provide bountiful shelter to beach lovers and those paddling in preparation to brave the strong waves. Visit Green Bowl during low tide when the waters clear up allowing you to snorkel the colourful depths of the sea.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
