Balangan Beach

Situated on the Bukit peninsula, not far from Bali’s surfing spiritual home, Uluwatu, Balangan beach is another of the island’s legendary surf spots. To non-surfers this is one of the lesser-known beaches on this wild-west stretch of coast.

The beach at Balangan is a pale-golden ribbon of sand set at the foot of steep craggy cliffs which are draped in lush greenery. Down on the sand there are a few palms, plenty of umbrellas and a small number of warungs - traditional Balinese food stalls on stilts with thatched roofs. These offer plenty of inexpensive options including the obligatory fresh coconut.

The 500 metres or so of sand are flanked by headlands at either end, both of which make great view points. The northernmost cliffs are a particularly good spot for watching the sun go down over the waves.

Much of the time Balangan beach is fine for swimming and snorkelling. The reef starts right off the sand along much of its length so there’s plenty to see. On days when the surf is pumping a long left-hander peels around the southern headland and a fair way along the beach. On the big days this is one for the experts only, but it is often a mellow enough wave for novice surfers and beginners.

Part of the charm of Balangan is its remote feel. Despite being just around the corner from the popular Dreamland beach, it’s always a lot quieter here. This is largely because it takes a little more effort to get here than the other beaches on this strip of coast. Probably the most popular way to get here is on a rented scooter, although other options are to hire a car or get a taxi.