One of the main reasons that people visit Bali is its reputation for some of the most spectacular sunsets on Earth.
That’s because the tropical climate gives year-round light displays over the ocean, volcanoes, rice fields, valleys, etc. and for some reason, the colours are far more vivid than in much of the rest of the world.
But where should you go to enjoy a great sunset? Well, we’ve got 17 awesome ideas to get you started.
Our 17 Favourite Sunsets On The Island
Karang Boma Cliff (Uluwatu Cliff)
We love a romantic holiday destination, and sunset seekers are going to find it at Karang Boma Cliff in Uluwatu. This is one of the lesser-known spots for sunset views, but we can see it getting busier fast as people start to appreciate the orange sky lights over the 180-degree view of the Indian Ocean and the dramatic drop from the cliff face!
Please note, though, that no matter how good the sunset views are, they’re not worth dying for. While there are no restrictions on how close you can get to the cliff edge, if you fall, you won’t survive. So, please keep a safe distance away from the edge.
Balangan Beach
The beach here is 200 meters of white sand with an incredible view from all angles, so make sure to hit the beach first. Then, you can move on to one of two excellent viewpoints, the first is one of the most popular spots on the island with wedding photographers on the cliff edge (again, please don’t get too close to the edge).
Then, head further down the same path to the second viewpoint, which is a pleasant circular platform strewn with vines and offering a very serene view of the area.
This is a great starting point for sunset seekers as it’s one of the least-visited viewpoints. It’s also a great spot for a bit of drone photography for much the same reasons.
Tegal Wangi Beach (Jimbaran)
This is one beach where you won’t find a sunset bar, as you have to climb down a very steep cliff to get there. But at low tide, the tidal pools are perfect for some sunset bathing and make for some of the most interesting images that you can get here in Bali. The good news is that when you get back up the cliff, you’re just a few meters from the Ayana Jimbaran Resort for a few post-sundown drinks.
Rock Bar Ayana Resort & Spa
Speaking of the Ayana… this sunset bar is a great place to enjoy a few cocktails and the views of the distinctive cliff rock formation in the area. Rock Bar isn’t cheap, but it is one of the big destinations in Jimbaran, and it’s all because of the views.
There’s no rock music, though; they named the bar after the cliff shape and not the sounds. You’ll need to hit up Kuta for some rock music.
Double-Six Rooftop Sunset Bar
If you’re looking for a rooftop terrace with a view, then the Double-Six luxury hotel is happy to provide one. Just be aware that if you want to use the floating pods, you will need to spend a minimum of 1 million IDR per person on food and drink.
However, there is a regular bar area with no minimum spend, if you just want to enjoy the sunset and aren’t that fussed about the “influencer” pose.
Pigstone Beach Canggu
There’s no palm tree forest waiting for you at this beach; instead, you will find a single solitary palm tree above the hill, and that’s why this beach is famous.
Be warned, this black sand beach has absolutely no shade during the heat of the day, and the sand gets very hot, so make sure you wear some thongs before you step on the sand.
If you want the most iconic shot here, turn right and keep walking for about 10 minutes; you will know it as soon as you see it.
Pasut Beach
Palm trees and sunsets are a win in our book, and when you throw the beauty of the ocean horizon in behind them? You’re going to get great photos.
This beach rarely sees any tourists, and thus, it’s one of the easier places to get a photo of your beau under a palm tree. One unusual thing about Pasut Beach is that the fiery sky at sunset is reflected on the wet black sands of the beach!
Munduk Moding Plantation
OK, this is a resort, but the infinity pool here offers one of the best views of North Bali that you’ve ever seen, and at sunset, it’s simply jaw-dropping.
It’s right on the doorstep of a coffee plantation, and then there’s nothing but lush jungle dropping away in front of you for miles. You can buy a day pass for the pool, but we’d spend a night here and explore the Munduk area too, it’s a lovely spot in Bali.
Pura Lempuyang Luhur Temple
The reflection of the gates of Heaven may be a cheap photographic trick (you just use a mirror), but there’s no doubt it makes for a great image.
Better still, during golden hour is makes for the kind of photo that is worth queuing up for, and you will have to queue as this is one of the island’s most popular spots.
Pemuteran Bay
This lovely bay is a long way from the hustle and bustle of tourist Bali, and it’s not far from the diving hotspot of Menjangan Island. We’d visit on the way to (or from) West Bali National Park and enjoy an incredible view over to Java with its volcanoes in the background.
You won’t find much in the way of warungs and bars here, so it’s best to bring some food and drinks for the sunset.
Warung Sunset View Point (Jemeluk Viewpoint)
Don’t worry, if you follow the dirt path up the hill, you will arrive at the viewpoint, and it will be worth your effort.
You see, once you get around the hill, you will get the best sunset shot of the sun dropping behind Mount Agung that it’s possible to get. Sure, it’s a little out of the way, but if you want an image to remember for your whole life, we recommend making the trip.
Bukit Asah Karangasem (Silent Hill)
This is a lovely place for a picnic with someone you love. It’s a very quiet spot (thus “Silent Hill”) and offers not just seclusion but an epic sunset.
There’s a fabulous view over the ocean, small islands and the rock cliff nearby. Just make sure to take something to sit on and some food and drink, as there are no facilities here.
Sayan House
This fusion restaurant in Ubud offers a remarkable sunset view over the jungle canopy, and you can stop in for a cocktail or two to enjoy it.
The food is very good too, and menu items start at just 45,000 ++ IDR. If you want to share a sunset with friends, this is a great place to do it without much effort.
Lahangan Sweet (Mount Agung)
Sure, you can always photograph Mount Agung at sunset, but how often do you photograph from an active volcano at sunset?
That’s what Lahangan Sweet Viewpoint offers, and it’s a brilliant place to get some epic shots of Bali as a whole. They’ve even set out some spots for you to get the best compositions from, which makes it a relaxing sunset, indeed.
Jaran Hill Sunset Viewpoint (Uluwatu)
This clifftop sunset spot isn’t very well known, and thus, it’s much less busy than Karang Boma (also in Uluwatu). If you want to chill with locals and grab some cliffs and turquoise sea shots,
Bukit Mende (Kintamani)
This is a fabulous place to shoot with misty views over the mountains (if you’re lucky with the weather. It’s like having a setting from Lord of the Rings. You’ll need to visit North Bali for it, but it’s worth it.
FAQs
Are Bali Sunsets Different Every Day?
Yes, while ever sunset can be glorious, each one is unique. There’s a magic to Bali’s sunsets that has to be witness first hand of the Island of Gods.
What Side Of Bali Is Sunset?
As you’d expect, the best sunsets in Bali can be witnessed towards the West of the island, and in particular, on the Southwest Coast. This affords the finest view of the sun dropping down behind the Indian Ocean, and reflections on the water make an already intense experience pop even more.
What Is The Golden Hour In Bali?
Golden hour occurs twice a day; it’s the first 30 minutes before and after sunrise and the 30 minutes before and after sunset. It’s called golden hour because it’s when the light is best for photography, and your shots look better without trying when shot at these times of day.
Final Thoughts On Bali Sunsets
The best sunsets in Bali are always the ones that you witness personally. The 17 spots above are a good way to get started with some great vistas for a sunset, but you will find that even just standing on a beach facing in the right direction at sunset can be mind-blowing here on the island.
Isn’t it time to book your Bali holiday and see it for yourself?