Bali is an island well known for its spiritual essence, temple-dotted vistas and emerald rice paddies. Even though it also has fantastic beaches, most visitors only tend to stay on one or escape to neighbouring Lombok. Thanks to its volcanic nature, there are lots of heavenly beaches in many different shades found across the island, from soot-black volcanic sands to gorgeous golden crescents. I’d implore you to stay at two or three resorts along Bali’s coastline to get a sense of how the landscape shifts and the varying beaches you can find. Here are some of my recommendations…
Soori Bali
Surrounded by rice paddies and overlooked by majestic volcanoes, Soori Bali lies on Bali’s south-western coast away from the crowds that flock further south. The resort fronts a charcoal-black sand beach thanks to its volcanic surroundings, which looks like something from another planet! It stretches for as far as the eye can see and there’s no-one around, so you’ll have it all to yourself. It’s powder soft as well, so it’s perfect for beach walks or horse riding, which the resort can arrange for you. It’s really remote so if you want to leave the beach for a day, you can really appreciate the charming and friendly local life around you with local villages and temples to visit.
Ametis Villa
A little further south lies the tranquil cocoon that is Ametis Villa, an intimate hideaway laced with romance. I’d describe the beach here as more of a chocolate brown colour and the snorkelling and diving beyond is fantastic. It’s also a great place if you love surfing and even if you’ve never ridden a wave, it’s perfect for beginners as well. Ametis Villa is in Canggu, which is well known as a hip and up-and-coming coastal town with a number of cool beach clubs and cafés. One of my favourites is The Lawn, which has a great selection of local dishes and cocktails which you can sip on a day bed on the beach!
Belmond Jimbaran Puri
Located on the southern tip of Bali, Belmond Jimbaran Puri sits on one of Bali’s best beaches. The crescent of sand is a gorgeous shade of gold fringing Jimbaran Bay and I could have just sat here all day long because the views were so spectacular! Belmond Jimbaran Puri has one of the best spots on this beach as well and you can dine on the sand while watching the sunset. It’s a great place for lazing on the sand and admiring the tropical scenery. It’s the perfect place to end any trip to Bali!
