Padang Padang Beach is one of Bali's most beautiful and famous beaches. Located on the stunning Bukit Peninsula, this beach became world-famous after appearing in the movie "Eat Pray Love" with Julia Roberts. With its soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and dramatic limestone cliffs, Padang Padang Beach offers an unforgettable experience for both locals and international visitors.

Whether you're a surfer looking for perfect waves, a traveler seeking a peaceful beach day, or someone wanting to explore Bali's natural beauty, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about visiting Padang Padang Beach.

Where is Padang Padang Beach?

Padang Padang Beach, also called Pantai Labuan Sait by locals, sits on the west coast of Bali's Bukit Peninsula in the Uluwatu area. The beach is located in Pecatu Village, South Kuta District, Badung Regency.

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The exact address is: Padang Padang Beach, Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung, Bali, Indonesia.

Distance from major areas:

About 30 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport
Around 15 minutes from Uluwatu Temple
30-60 minutes from Kuta or Seminyak
Roughly 1 to 1.5 hours from Canggu

The beach entrance is right along Jalan Labuan Sait, the main road. You'll find a large parking area directly across from the beach entrance.

How to Get to Padang Padang Beach

Getting to Padang Padang Beach is straightforward, and you have several transportation options.

By Scooter (Recommended)

Renting a scooter is the most popular and convenient way to explore Bali. A scooter gives you complete freedom to explore at your own pace, helps you avoid traffic jams, and is very affordable. The ride to Padang Padang Beach is easy to follow using Google Maps.

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Renting a scooter is the most popular and convenient way to explore Bali. A scooter gives you complete freedom to explore at your own pace, helps you avoid traffic jams, and is very affordable. However, if you're new to renting in Bali, make sure to avoid common mistakes tourists make when hiring a scooter to ensure a smooth experience.

By Ride-Hailing Apps

You can easily book a Grab or Gojek (similar to Uber) to take you to Padang Padang Beach. This is a good option if you're staying in nearby Uluwatu.

By Private Driver

Many visitors hire a private car and driver for the day. This gives you flexibility to visit multiple beaches and attractions in the area.

Important tip: Try to avoid traveling in the late afternoon when traffic gets heavy.

The ride to Padang Padang Beach is easy to follow using Google Maps. Before you start your journey, familiarize yourself with the essential do's and don'ts when renting a scooter in Bali to stay safe and legal on the road.

How Much is It to Get Onto Padang Padang Beach?

There is a small entrance fee to access Padang Padang Beach. The beach is well-maintained, and the fee helps keep it clean and beautiful.

2025 Entrance Fees:

International tourists (adults): IDR 15,000 per person
International tourists (children 3-10 years): IDR 10,000 per person
Domestic tourists (adults): IDR 10,000 per person
Domestic tourists (children 3-10 years): IDR 5,000 per person

Parking Fees:

Scooter parking: IDR 2,000
Car parking: IDR 5,000

Important: The entrance only accepts cash in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Make sure to bring cash before you arrive.

When is the Best Time to Visit Padang Padang Beach

Timing your visit to Padang Padang Beach can make a big difference in your experience.

Best Season: Dry Season (April to October)

The dry season is the perfect time to visit Padang Padang Beach. During these months, you'll enjoy:

Sunny weather with minimal rainfall
Clear, calm water perfect for swimming
Great surfing conditions
Easier road conditions for traveling

The dry season runs from April through October, with the peak surfing season being June to August.

Wet Season (November to March)

While you can still visit during the wet season, expect more rainfall and different surf conditions. The waves may be smaller, and it can rain more frequently.

Best Time of Day

For the best experience, visit Padang Padang Beach:

Early morning (6-9 AM): Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Late afternoon (4-6 PM): Beautiful sunset views but more crowded

The beach can get quite busy during midday, especially on weekends and holidays.

What to Expect at Padang Padang Beach

Padang Padang Beach offers a unique and beautiful setting that makes it stand out from other Bali beaches.

The Beach

The beach stretches about 100 meters of soft white sand. It's surrounded by towering limestone cliffs that create a natural amphitheater. The turquoise water is stunning, and the beach has a protected feeling thanks to the surrounding rock formations.

Unique Cave Entrance

One of the most memorable parts of visiting Padang Padang Beach is the entrance itself. After paying your entrance fee, you'll walk down 120 stone steps through narrow limestone passages. The path takes you through a cave-like opening in the rocks, which creates an exciting arrival to the beach.

Watch your head as you walk through the narrow passages, and be careful on the stairs.

The Monkeys

As you make your way down to the beach, you'll likely encounter monkeys. These gray macaques live in the area and are used to tourists. While they can be entertaining to watch:

Keep your bags zipped and secure
Don't feed them without guidance
Don't show your teeth (smiling can be seen as a threat)
Store glasses, hats, and food in your bag
Don't make prolonged eye contact

The monkeys can grab items if they're visible, so it's better to be cautious.

Beach Facilities

Padang Padang Beach provides several amenities for visitors:

Clean restrooms and showers
Sunbeds and umbrellas for rent
Small food stalls and vendors selling snacks and drinks
Surfboard rentals
Massage services on the beach

International Surfing Events – Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang

Padang Padang Beach is famous in the surfing world for hosting one of the most prestigious surfing competitions in Indonesia: the Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang.

About the Rip Curl Cup

This invitational event has been running since 2004 and is Indonesia's longest-running surfing competition. The event brings together the best international surfers and Indonesia's top local talent.

What Makes It Special

The Rip Curl Cup follows a unique "one day, one swell" format. This means the competition only runs on the best possible day of waves during the event's waiting period, which typically runs from early August to early September.

The event window for 2025 was August 4 to September 4. Surfers compete for the chance to ride perfect barrels at what's known as the "Balinese Pipeline".

Recent Winners

In 2025, 16-year-olds Westen Hirst and Jasmine Studer won the men's and women's divisions. For the first time in the event's history, a women's competition was held alongside the men's event in 2024.

If you're visiting during August or early September, watching this world-class surfing event is an incredible experience.

What to Do at Padang Padang Beach

Padang Padang Beach offers several activities for visitors of all skill levels.

Surfboard Rentals

Padang Padang Beach is known for its excellent surf conditions. The beach has consistent waves that work well for different skill levels:

Padang Padang Left: A more advanced break for experienced surfers
Padang Padang Right: A gentler wave perfect for beginners and intermediates

Surfboard rentals are available on the beach and at nearby surf camps. You can rent various types of boards including:

Soft-top foam boards (great for beginners)
Longboards
Funboards
Shortboards

Rental prices typically include the board for your surf session.

Padang Padang is just one of many incredible surf spots in Bali. If you're a surf enthusiast, explore our guide to the top surfing spots around Seminyak for more wave-hunting destinations.

Surf Schools

If you're new to surfing or want to improve your skills, several surf schools operate in the Padang Padang area.

What Surf Lessons Include:

Expert local instructors with extensive experience
Land-based theory and technique training
Photo and video reviews to improve your form
Transport to the best surf spots based on conditions
Choice of surfboard matched to your skill level

Most surf schools offer:

Beginner lessons (learning to stand up and catch waves)
Intermediate lessons (improving technique and maneuvers)
Private lessons (one-on-one instruction)
Surf guiding (for experienced surfers)

The Bukit area has been teaching surfing for over 20 years, so you're learning from some of Bali's most experienced instructors.

Beyond Padang Padang, the Bukit Peninsula and nearby areas offer world-class surfing. Don't miss our comprehensive guide to surf spots near Canggu if you want to explore more breaks during your trip.

Swimming

Swimming at Padang Padang Beach is possible and enjoyable, especially during calm conditions. The best swimming area is on the left side of the beach.

Swimming Safety Tips:

Be aware of the tides – the beach gets smaller at high tide
Watch for strong currents, especially at high tide
Be careful of sharp coral and rocks when entering the water
Never swim alone
The water is generally calmer during the dry season

At low tide, you'll see shallow seawater pools on the shoreline, and many natural stones become visible.

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What to Do Near Padang Padang Beach

The Padang Padang area is rich with attractions. Here are the top places to visit nearby.

Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is one of Bali's most important and beautiful temples. Located just 15 minutes from Padang Padang Beach, this ancient temple sits dramatically on a 70-meter-high cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Why Visit:

Stunning clifftop location with breathtaking ocean views
One of Bali's six holiest temples
Dating back to at least the 9th century
Famous Kecak fire dance performances at sunset
Sacred monkeys that guard the temple

Entry Fee: IDR 50,000 per person

Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for sunset views and the Kecak dance performance

Uluwatu Beach (Suluban Beach)

Suluban Beach, also known as Blue Point Beach or Uluwatu Beach, is located near Uluwatu Temple. This beach is famous for its unique cave entrance and world-class surfing.

What Makes It Special:

Access through a dramatic cave with towering rocks
Crystal-clear turquoise water
One of Bali's best surf spots
Stunning clifftop cafes and restaurants with ocean views
Beautiful rock formations and lagoons at low tide

The beach is about a 15-minute drive from Padang Padang Beach along the same coastal road.

Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park (GWK)

GWK Cultural Park is home to one of the world's tallest statues and offers a fascinating look at Balinese culture.

Highlights:

The massive 120.9-meter-tall statue of Vishnu riding Garuda
Traditional Balinese dance performances
Plaza Wisnu with panoramic views
Cultural events and festivals
Large outdoor spaces perfect for walking

Location: About 10-15 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport, roughly 20-30 minutes from Padang Padang Beach

Entry Fee: IDR 100,000 per person

GWK offers an excellent cultural experience and is perfect for families.

Balangan Beach

Balangan Beach is another stunning beach on the Bukit Peninsula, known for its pristine white sand and spectacular sunsets.

What to Expect:

Nearly one kilometer of white sand beach
Surrounded by tall limestone cliffs
Popular surf spot with consistent left-hand waves
Quieter and less crowded than other beaches
Perfect sunset viewing location

Location: About 20 minutes north of Padang Padang Beach

Entry Fee: IDR 10,000 per person

Jimbaran Beach

Jimbaran Beach is famous for its seafood restaurants and calm waters. Originally a fishing village, Jimbaran has become one of Bali's premier dining destinations.

Why Visit:

Dozens of beachfront seafood restaurants
Fresh seafood grilled over coconut husks
Beautiful sunset dining on the sand
Calm waters protected by reef, great for swimming
Family-friendly beach

Location: About 20-30 minutes north of Padang Padang Beach, near the airport

Jimbaran offers a more relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for a romantic dinner on the beach.

Bingin Beach

Bingin Beach is a beautiful, bohemian beach known for its world-class surf break and laid-back vibe.

Highlights:

Stunning views from the cliff tops
World-class left-hand reef break for experienced surfers
Beautiful white sand beach
Casual beach cafes and warungs
Amazing sunset views
At low tide, you can walk to neighboring Dreamland Beach

Location: Just 5-10 minutes north of Padang Padang Beach

Entry Fee: IDR 10,000 per person

Dreamland Beach

Dreamland Beach (officially New Kuta Beach) is a wide, sandy beach popular with surfers and sunbathers.

What to Expect:

Long stretch of soft golden sand
Consistent surf breaks suitable for various skill levels
More spacious than Padang Padang Beach
Beach clubs and restaurants nearby
Dramatic limestone cliffs

Location: About 10-15 minutes north of Padang Padang Beach

Entry Fee: IDR 10,000 per person

Parking: IDR 5,000 for scooters

Dreamland Beach offers more space to spread out and is great for beach volleyball and other activities.

Where to Stay Near Padang Padang Beach

The Padang Padang area offers accommodation for every budget, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.

Luxury Options:

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort – Five-star clifftop resort with stunning ocean views
Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu – Modern resort with excellent amenities
Six Senses Uluwatu – Ultra-luxury resort known for its spa and dining

Mid-Range Hotels:

Suarga Padang Padang – Close to the beach with good facilities
Gravity Eco Boutique Hotel – Adults-only with a focus on sustainability
The Room Padang-Padang – Three-star beachfront accommodation

Budget-Friendly:

Local guesthouses in Pecatu Village
Hostels in the Uluwatu area
Simple homestays near the beach

Location Tips:

Staying within 10 minutes of Padang Padang Beach gives you easy beach access
Uluwatu area accommodations are often within 15-20 minutes
Bingin and nearby beaches offer alternative stay options with their own charm

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Where to Eat Near Padang Padang Beach

The Padang Padang and Uluwatu area has developed an excellent dining scene with options for every taste and budget.

Upscale Dining:

Bortolo – Elegant French and Italian cuisine in a stylish black-and-white setting. Try the lamb keftas.

Tabu – A unique blend of Mexican and Japanese cuisine with DJ nights upstairs. The tableside guacamole is excellent.

Mason – Mediterranean-focused restaurant near Suluban Beach entrance. Known for wood-fired dishes and fresh ingredients. Reservations recommended.

Yuki – Japanese-inspired dining featuring fresh sashimi and sushi. The chef works with local fishermen for the freshest catch.

Casual Dining:

Bukit Café – Located between Bingin and Padang Padang beaches. Western-inspired menu with daily specials and a bright, tropical setting.

Ulu Garden – Fresh, locally sourced ingredients with Balinese curries and plant-based options. Great social atmosphere.

Drifter – Surf shop and restaurant with healthy, organic versions of favorite dishes. Perfect for the surf crowd.

Beach Warungs:

Simple local restaurants (warungs) are scattered along the beach offering:

Traditional Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng
Fresh fruit and coconut water
Cold drinks
Simple snacks
Affordable prices

Dining Tips:

Many popular restaurants get busy, especially around sunset – book ahead when possible
Beach vendors sell fresh fruit, grilled corn, and drinks
Most restaurants accept cash and cards, but smaller warungs may be cash-only
Prices range from very affordable (warungs) to upscale dining

Whether you're visiting for a few days or staying longer as a digital nomad, having reliable transportation is key. Check out our essential tips for safe motorbike riding in Bali to make the most of your island experience.

FAQs

Is Padang Padang Beach Worth Visiting?

Yes, Padang Padang Beach is definitely worth visiting. The beach offers a unique combination of natural beauty, great surf, and an interesting entrance through limestone caves. The turquoise water, white sand, and dramatic cliff setting make it one of Bali's most photogenic beaches.

The beach is especially worth visiting if you:

Enjoy surfing or want to learn
Appreciate natural beauty and unique rock formations
Want to visit a famous movie location
Are exploring other beaches in the Uluwatu area

Even though it can get crowded, the beach's beauty and surf quality make it a must-see destination on the Bukit Peninsula.

What is Padang Padang Beach Famous for?

Padang Padang Beach is famous for several reasons:

The "Eat Pray Love" Movie: The beach gained international fame when it appeared in the 2010 film "Eat Pray Love" starring Julia Roberts. After the movie's release, visitor numbers increased significantly.
World-Class Surfing: Padang Padang is known as one of Bali's best surf spots, hosting the prestigious Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang surfing competition since 2004.
Unique Cave Entrance: The narrow limestone cave passage and stairs leading to the beach create a memorable entrance experience.
Natural Beauty: The combination of white sand, turquoise water, and towering cliffs makes it one of Bali's most beautiful beaches.

Is Padang Padang Beach Easy to Access?

Padang Padang Beach is relatively easy to access, but it does require some physical effort.

Getting There: The beach location is easy to find along Jalan Labuan Sait with clear parking across from the entrance.

Beach Access: You'll need to walk down 120 steps through narrow limestone passages and a cave-like opening. The descent is moderate and manageable for most people, though the climb back up requires more effort.

Accessibility Considerations:

The narrow stairs and cave passages may be challenging for those with mobility issues
There's no wheelchair access
The path can be slippery when wet
You need to watch your head in the low cave sections

Overall, if you can handle stairs and don't mind a bit of adventure, accessing Padang Padang Beach is straightforward and part of the experience.

Final Thoughts on Padang Padang Beach

Padang Padang Beach is a true gem on Bali's Bukit Peninsula. With its stunning natural setting, excellent surf conditions, and unique character, it offers something special for every visitor. Whether you're catching your first wave, swimming in crystal-clear water, or simply relaxing on soft white sand, Padang Padang Beach creates lasting memories.

The beach's combination of natural beauty, world-class surfing, and cultural significance makes it a must-visit destination in Bali. The entrance through limestone caves adds an element of adventure that you won't find at other beaches. And with so many amazing attractions nearby – from ancient temples to hidden beaches – Padang Padang serves as the perfect base for exploring the entire Uluwatu area.

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