Bali may be famous for its postcard-perfect beaches, but in reality, it can be a challenging destination for swimming. Strong currents, powerful waves, sharp reefs, and unpredictable ocean conditions often make visitors question whether swimming in Bali is safe at all. Without knowing the right spots, it is easy to arrive at a stunning stretch of sand and never actually step into the water.
Sanur Beach
One of the calmest beaches in Bali, Sanur offers significantly gentler waves than the island’s west coast, with tides that do not create strong rip currents. It is a favorite among families with children and travelers looking for relaxed, wave-free swimming.
The shallow entry, soft sand, long coastline, and well-developed infrastructure make Sanur especially comfortable. Visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, paddleboards, enjoy beachside massages, and walk or jog along the several-kilometer-long seaside promenade, particularly beautiful at sunset.
Located in southeastern Bali, approximately thirty minutes by car from Denpasar Airport, Sanur is suitable for swimming year-round. During the rainy season from November to April, strong winds and ocean debris may appear, but the beach remains far calmer than the west coast.
Beach location
Nusa Dua Beach
Another classic choice for safe swimming in Bali. The shoreline is protected by a breakwater, keeping the water calm, warm, and clear even on windy days.
The beach is located in the southeastern part of the island, about twenty-five minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport, making it ideal even for short stays. Uluwatu and Jimbaran are roughly thirty minutes away.
The best time to visit is in the morning or around midday, when the water is at its deepest. Public beach areas near Museum Pasifika or Bali Collection offer shade from trees and easy access to the sea.
Jimbaran Bay
Located in southern Bali, about thirty minutes from the airport and close to major attractions, Jimbaran is often chosen as a starting or ending point for a trip.
The water here is not turquoise, but swimming is calm and comfortable thanks to the bay’s semicircular shape, which protects it from ocean waves. Seafood restaurants line the sand, serving grilled prawns, sea bass, and other fresh catches.
Many visitors arrive at sunset, when candles are lit on beachside tables and diners sit just meters from the water, listening to the sound of the waves. Sun loungers, umbrellas, and small stands selling drinks and snacks are also available.
Virgin Beach (White Sand Beach)
A quiet bay on Bali’s eastern coast near Candidasa, Virgin Beach is also known as White Sand Beach or Pantai Pasir Putih.
This secluded stretch of soft white sand and clear blue water is far from Bali’s main tourist routes. The drive takes about one and a half hours from Ubud and more than two hours from Kuta, keeping crowds to a minimum.
Framed by cliffs and greenery, the beach has a gentle entry into the water and typically mild waves. Facilities include showers, restrooms, parking, and a small entrance fee. Sun loungers and umbrellas are usually complimentary when ordering from a beach café.
Swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips along the coast are all popular here.
Bias Tugel Beach (Padangbai Area)
A small white-sand beach near Padangbai in eastern Bali, Bias Tugel is an ideal escape from the busier resort areas.
It is perfect for relaxed beach days, sunset views, scenic walks, and photography. For swimming, it is best to stay in the shallower central areas of the bay and keep a safe distance from the reefs.
On windy days, it is better to remain on shore. The beach is just minutes from Padangbai Harbor, where ferries depart for Nusa Penida and Lombok.
Infrastructure is minimal, with a few small cafés and warungs near the parking area offering drinks, light snacks, and day rentals of sun loungers and umbrellas. Overall, the atmosphere remains wonderfully wild and secluded.
While these beaches are ideal for calm, confident swimming, Bali’s coastline tells a very different story just a few kilometers away. Stronger swells, reef breaks, and long rolling waves are what draw surfers to Indonesia year after year.
For those curious to see where the island’s energy truly peaks — and how to approach it safely — our guide to Indonesia’s surf regions, beginner lessons, and surf-friendly stays offers a deeper look beyond the shoreline.
