Bali’s Bukit Peninsula and her rugged coast line boast some of the best beaches, surf and jaw dropping sunsets spots in all of Bali. So it’s no surprise that on the top of everyones ‘What to do on the Bukit’ list includes a sunset session. Whether you like your sunsets with a touch of sophistication, a party atmosphere, casual local style or prefer a romantic vibe, there’s something on the Bukit for every sunset lover! Read on for our top tips.
KELLY'S WARUNG
Bingin Beach
Looking for something more low-key and casual? Kelly’s Warung is your go to! This icon of Bingin Beach sits right on the sand overlooking one of Bali’s best surf breaks, is chilled and unpretentious. Its surfer/endless summer vibe attracts locals, expats and beach lovers alike and is a crowd favourite any time of day. But we highly recommend heading down for sunset. Grab a sofa or balcony spot in the cafe, or for a birds eye view, grab seat on their upstairs sunset deck. If you prefer your toes in the sand, nestle yourself in front and have your drinks delivered to your towel… Not a bad way to end a Bali day.
Kelly’s is owned and run by The Cashew Tree Collective who do some of the best food on the Bukit! When down there, grab some delicious food (their tacos, burgers and wraps are so good!) to go with your margarita or icy cold beer.
SINGLE FIN
Uluwatu
Single Fin – the OG sunset spot of Uluwatu. From its inception as a modest warung back in 2008 to the bustling “it spot” of Uluwatu today, you’ll find this iconic bar on every sunset seekers must visit list. And for good reason – the view from their elevated cliff hugging terraces are simply spectacular. It’s popular and gets busy! So arrive early to secure a table or perch on a bar stool. Have a crew? Pre-book an oh so fabulous spot in their VIP lounge. Drinks, food, beats and views over the world famous waves of Uluwatu. Sip on a cocktail and watching surfers score the last waves of the day as the sun drops down into the dazzling Indian ocean.
FYI – Their Sunday sessions are something of legend and not for the faint hearted – if you’re not into boozy crowds, choose another spot on a Sunday.
ULU CLIFF HOUSE
Uluwatu
Awe-inspiring locale, contemporary design, fantastic food and THAT VIEW. Since opening in 2017 Ulu Cliffhouse quickly rose to popularity, gracing the pages of every ‘Best of Bali’ list. You’ll find no Bintang singlets here. Instead expect a wonderful balance of island cool and international glamour with an international appeal. They have a plethora of options to perch yourself for sunset. Grab a day bed, float in their 25m pool, have a sunset dinner in their clifftop restaurant or, If you prefer to be closer to the beach, wander down their private stairs to the sunset bar for a chilled Robinson Caruso vibe. Mid week is pretty low key (if you’re a film buff you’ll love Tuesday movie nights under the stars), but on weekends, they up the tempo. Their epic dance parties draw in some of the best international DJs around – Carl Cox, Eric Powell, Fatboy Slim, Rudimental to name a few. Check their website for events and lineups.
MANA
Uluwatu
The easy breezy style of Mana is a great choice if you like dazzling sunsets and a casual surfer vibe. Trendy t-shirts and flip flops are welcome here. They have a great drinks list – choose from boutique brewery beers on tap (Island Brewing & Kura Kura), local wines or indulge in one of their delectable cocktails. If you’re a non-drinker, they have you covered with a wonderful selection of smoothies, kombucha’s and mock-tails. For seating poolside choose from an iconic timber framed cabana, a comfy sun lounger or the giant communal day bed. Too hot? Just slip into their infinity pool and enjoy that view! If you prefer a restaurant feel, wander upstairs and get a birds eye view. They have a weekly resident DJ playing relaxed tunes poolside. Check their website for more info.
THE BEACH
Bingin / Padang Padang / Thomas beach / Uluwatu
Up for keeping it casual? Why not pack a sarong, some snacks, a bottle of wine or a few beers and head down the beach. Bingin Beach, Padang Padang, Uluwatu, Balangan or Dreamland are the pick. Have a sunset dip and if the tide is low find a rock pool to float in. Didn’t BYO? Don’t worry, you can order drinks at any warung and they’ll deliver to your towel. Bali life ain’t bad huh!
If you’re at our local Beach – Bingin – and in need of a snack with your sunset drink, we highly recommend Ibu Deborah’s BBQ corn on the cob! So good! If you’re after something more, the nightly Seafood BBQs offered by a couple of warungs are amazing. It’s a unique experience and one we highly recommend when in the area.
SUNSET SPOT
Uluwatu
**2022 – TEMPORARILY CLOSED**
This little gem became a fast favourite. If you like your cheap drinks with million dollar views, this is your place. Leave your high heels and best threads at home, this place is super casual, relaxed and down to earth. It draws in a mixed crowd – couples, families, groups of friends, surfers, yogis, backpackers, dogs and cats. The bar does a roaring trade selling icy cold beers, cheery cocktails and simple food. Grab your favourite person or people, dust off a bean bag and enjoy the chilled out vibezzz.
SUARGA
Padang Padang
Dugong Lounge Bar and Restaurant at Suarga Padang Padang is one for the grown ups. A 5 star eco hotel consciously designed to blend modern luxury and island style and a magnificent example of sustainable architecture. As you walk through the entryway, you’ll experience bamboo craftsmanship at its finest. Sunset here is beautiful and both the bar lounge and restaurant include captivating views over Padang Padang Beach. A great spot to take your favourite person if you like your sunset with a touch of indulgence.
SUNDARA
Jimbaran
Sundara, tucked away at the end of Jimbaran bay directly on the beach is one of our favourites for a special occasion . Expect beach-side luxury, classy cocktails, stunning sunset views, world class cuisine and 5 star service that is synonymous with Four Seasons Hotels. It’s not a large space, so we’d recommend pre-booking or arrive a little early. The ambience and sunset cocktails are so good it’ll be difficult to leave. The good news is their food is divine. So as the night crawls on, why not settle in and enjoy their impressive menu. This locale brings together all ingredients for a most romantic evening. So throw on your finest threads and prepare to be pampered.
EL KABRON
Bingin / Dreamland
Perched atop the cliffs between Dreamland and Bingin Beach, El Kabron will dazzle any glamorous #sunset lover with spectacular views and stylish Mediteranean beach club vibes. Crisp white adobe walls, pumping DJ beats, breezy alfresco feels, a fantastic drink and tapas menu and that billion dollar view! It is a little bit snazzy, so be sure to wear your Sunday best! FYI, a minimum spend applies for seating in the pool area.
PURA ULUWATU
Uluwatu
70m above the roaring waves of Uluwatu, the cliff top location of this very sacred Balinese Temple is indeed impressive. Facing west, Pura Luhur is an incredibly special place to take in the sunset and get a culture hit at the same time. Stick around for the nightly Kecak Fire Dance to get a glimpse into some Balinese culture and history. Just beware of the monkeys. Keep a tight grip on your belongings because these kids are cheeky and will take anything and everything!
