Uluwatu is the mecca of surfing on the Island of the Gods, but it has more than just world-class waves! Uluwatu is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs lining the coastline, overlooking the turquoise waters. As the sun sets, the vibe shifts into a lively party scene, making Uluwatu the perfect mix of surf culture and trendy experiences. Here’s what to do in Uluwatu beyond the lineup.
Uluwatu is spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do, that is why Kima Surf is making its way to the heart of Uluwatu. We want to place you in the heart of everything the area has to offer, here’s Kima’s best tips.
Once you stay in Uluwatu long enough you will understand the hype around sunsets, it’s not just a sunset but a daily ritual here! The vast cliffs means there is plenty of room to watch the sun dip behind the beautiful coastline. Head to the cliffs near Uluwatu’s main beach and grab a seat at one of the cliffside restaurants. Order a Bintang and enjoy a social sunset while trendy music plays in the background.
For a quieter experience, head to Balangan or Bingin Beach. Lay out a picnic blanket and take in the sunset accompanied by the sounds of nature.
When you stay at Kima Surf Camp in Seminyak and Canggu we run daily social activities, one of which is a day trip to Uluwatu held on Sundays. Kima will take you to Uluwatu’s most beautiful sunset cliffs. If you are staying at our camp in Uluwatu, you can just walk to some of the most scenic cliffs.
Pro tip: grab a cold coconut or a Bintang, find a cliff edge, and stay a little longer than you planned.
You don’t need to surf to make the best of Uluwatu’s gorgeous beaches. Uluwatu is home to a variety of different beaches, looking for the famous Eat, Pray, Love beach, visit Padang Padang. Looking to chase some world-class waves? Uluwatu Main Beach has your back. Wanting to escape the crowds and get through that book? Nyang Nyang it is!
Here are some worth adding to your hit list:
Bali is full of many cultures and traditions, the island is predominantly Hindu, and the locals daily lives are filled with rituals, offerings and regular ceremonies. The island is also home to Muslim, Christian and Buddhist communities. Taking time to learn about this part of Bali will add to your experience.
Visit Uluwatu Temple, this is one of Bali’s most sacred sea temples, it was built to protect the island from evil spirits. Around sunset Uluwatu Temple comes alive with traditional Kecak dance performances, which is a tradition that tells stories from the Ramayana through dance and fire.
Just a heads up: respect the setting (it’s still an active temple), so dress appropriately, cover your shoulders and knees and keep an eye on your belongings — the monkeys are part of the experience too.
At Kima Surf Camps we are all about giving you the full experience, try some of our cultural trips. From traditional Balinese cooking classes, to our Tanah Lot Temple day trip, Northeast day trip and more, you will get to experience Bali from many different angles!
Uluwatu has epic nightlife! Trust us. If you are around on Sunday, Single Fin Sunday’s is a must. Sunset drinks turn into one of the most epic parties on the island. Enjoy international DJs, flowing drinks and loads of socialising! After you have danced your way through Sunday evening, maybe you are not ready to call it a night, keep it going and try:
Tuesdays are for Rolling Fork and Thursdays for Cashew Tree! Know your nights, there is always a vibe to be found. Uluwatu is not about big clubs or flashy scenes. It’s barefoot, social, a little chaotic — and way more fun because of it.
At Kima Surf Camps we know life is about balance, nothing compliments a good surf better than a good night out after, every now or then. Enjoy our Friday night after surf parties, treat yourself to a cocktail at our on-site bar, and dance the night away while meeting fellow Kima guests.
A great way to experience an area is also by eating your way through it! Local Balinese food is great, with dishes like nasi goreng, mie goreng, and fresh seafood found across Uluwatu. Don’t miss trying a traditional warung for an authentic taste of the island.
Expect to find everything and anything, from local dishes to international favourites. Italian, Mexican, Greek, Japanese, Uluwatu has it.
Some must-visit spots:
From local dishes to international cuisines, you’ll find something for every mood — and almost every place comes with a view.
Our surf camps in Canggu, Seminyak and Uluwatu also have on-site restaurants, our on-site Kima restaurant serves up a huge variety of dishes, both Western and Indonesian:
On Tuesdays and Thursdays, you can come together with all your fellow surfers at our Balinese BBQ nights, which consist of a delectable array of rice, potatoes, vegetables, coleslaw, grilled meat and sambal (local chilli).
The GWK Cultural Park is home to one of the tallest monuments in the world, which shows the Hindu god Vishnu riding the legendary bird Garuda hence the name of the park, the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park. The park is a cultural center where art, history, and performance come to life rather than just a solitary monument.
Expect large gardens, ancient Balinese architecture, and epic views of the southern coast as you explore. For anybody interested in learning more about Bali outside of the beaches, there are also workshops and exhibitions where you may witness local artisans at work, from painting to stone carving.
A trip to Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is a complete cultural immersion rather than only a sightseeing excursion. You depart with a greater understanding of Balinese spirituality, artistic expression, and the inhabitants’ pride in their culture.
Uluwatu also has a more creative and artistic side. Uluwatu is filled with local stores, local markets, and small boutiques. Handmade apparel, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind items that feel more intimate than standard souvenirs are available.
Try a jewelry-making workshop; it’s an enjoyable way to bring a little bit of Bali home with you.
It’s time to rejuvenate your body and mind after all the traveling. There are many wellness centers in Uluwatu where you can enjoy reflexology sessions, aromatherapy treatments, Balinese body cleanses, and cliffside massages. Try an ice bath or sauna at places like Float Bali Uluwatu or The Cashew Tree Bali for a more thorough reset. These therapies lessen muscle soreness, increase circulation, and leave you feeling renewed and energized.
Slowing down at Uluwatu isn’t about doing nothing; rather, it’s about connecting with the island’s natural rhythm, recharging your body, and losing yourself in relaxation.
Duration : Half-Day
Suggested Schedule : Afternoon / Sunset
Highlights & Tips :
Duration : 1 Day
Suggested Schedule : Morning – Evening
Highlights & Tips :
Duration : 3 Days
Suggested Schedule : Full Experience
Highlights & Tips :
Uluwatu is more than surfing—it’s beaches, sunsets, culture, food, and wellness all in one. Staying at Kima Surf Uluwatu puts you in the heart of it, minutes from the best spots to explore, eat, and relax. Come for the waves, stay for the experience.