Nestled on the southern tip of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu is a surfer’s paradise known for its spectacular ocean cliffs, legendary waves, and seaside temples.
With its laidback surf town vibes and wealth of sights, this area makes for an ideal mini getaway from the bustle of Bali’s busy tourist hubs.
How much time do you need to spend in Uluwatu? As one of the top places to go in Bali, three days in Uluwatu is the perfect amount of time to explore.
This customizable 3-day Uluwatu itinerary covers the best places to visit such as must-visit beaches, trendy cafes, and iconic temples, and how to help you plan an epic yet affordable trip.
Since there is so much to see in Bali, you’ll want to spend at least 2 weeks here!
Click here to jump to certain areas of this itinerary:
*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.
Map
Click here to see a larger view of places to visit on your 3 days in Uluwatu. Credit: Map data: Google
Uluwatu Itinerary Day 1: Beaches & Temples
Morning: Explore Padang Padang Beach
Start your first day in Uluwatu by heading to the area’s most famous beach, Padang Padang.
Characterized by its unique downstairs/upstairs layout, this pretty pocket beach has glistening white sand and translucent blue water ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. Many visitors love the unique rocks.
There is a staircase leading up to a cafe and beach entrance.
Arrive early to secure a shaded spot under one of the trees, go for a swim, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the Padang Padang Beach cafes overlooking the ocean.
TIP: Keep an eye out for monkeys who may try to steal your food!
Address: Jl. Labuansait, Padang Padang, Beach, Kabupaten Badung, Bali
Admission Cost: 15,000 IDR ($1.00 USD)
Afternoon: Visit Uluwatu Temple
After soaking up the laidback beach vibes, head to the nearby Pura Luhur Uluwatu, also known as Uluwatu Temple, in the early afternoon.
One of Bali’s most important sea temples, Pura Luhur Uluwatu is believed to protect Bali from evil sea spirits.
Take your time to explore this 11th-century Hindu temple, being mindful of the resident monkeys. The monkeys will steal everything shiny and within reach!
Opt for a guided tour to learn about the significance of the various shrines and structures.
Uluwatu Temple has a nice walking path to see the ocean. Photo credit: Life Of Doing
If you’re staying for sunset, don’t miss watching the Kecak fire dance performance – a spectacle not to be missed with traditional Balinese costumes, chanting, and dancing.
The Kecak fire performance set against the dramatic ocean backdrop and sunset makes this a magical experience.
The show starts at 6:00pm, and you can buy tickets at the temple.
One of the highlights of visiting Uluwatu Temple is to see the Kecak Fire Show. Photo credit: Life Of Doing
If you’re not interested in the Kecak performance, feel free to find a good lookout spot along the walking path and awe at the stunning sunset.
The energy is electric as the sun disappears into the waves and the temple grounds become illuminated under the moonlight and cliffside lights.
Address: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Admission Cost:
- 50,000 IDR ($3.30) Adults
- 30,000 IDR ($2.00) Children
- 150,000 IDR ($9.80) for Kecak Dance – Buy tickets for Kecak Dance ahead of time here
Evening: Relax and Enjoy at Single Fin
Cap off your first day in Uluwatu with sunset cocktails at Single Fin, one of Bali’s most iconic cliffside bars.
Positioned along Uluwatu’s cliffs at Suluban Beach overlooking the sweeping Indian Ocean, Single Fin’s 180-degree view of the ocean and horizon is the ultimate spot to watch the spectacular Uluwatu sunsets.
Arrive just before sunset to secure a coveted clifftop beanbag and enjoy some beers, island cocktails, and shareable bites as the sky turns fiery shades of orange and red.
With cool beats, casual vibes, and incredible views, this is a memorable way to end your first day in Uluwatu.
Note: If you’re staying at Uluwatu Temple for sunset, you can still enjoy a nice dinner and drinks here afterward.
There are beautiful cliffside views from Single Fin in Uluwatu. Photo credit: BRB Gone Somewhere Epic
Address: Uluwatu, Pantai Suluban, Jl. Labuansait, Pecatu, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali
More Information: Website | Instagram
Related: Where to Eat in Bali
Uluwatu Itinerary Day 2: Street Art & Cafes
Morning: Explore Graffiti Walls
Dedicate your second morning in Uluwatu to checking out the area’s cool street art scene. Just a short walk from Single Fin Bali, you’ll find two graffiti-covered walls filled with colorful murals and paintings by local artists.
Wander past the detailed graffiti artworks and funky wall paintings that give the streets a hip, artistic vibe.
Snap some photos before the art changes or gets painted over by new designs!
You’ll see some incredible street art in Uluwatu. Photo credit: BRB Gone Somewhere Epic
Afternoon: Surfing & Beach Club at Suluban Beach Area
After your street art tour, head to Suluban Beach and take surfing lessons.
Uluwatu’s waves are ideal for learning how to surf before progressing to other more advanced spots.
Since Suluban Beach is known for incredible waves, so consider learning some basic techniques here.
Suluban Beach is another pretty beach in Uluwatu to visit. Photo credit: BRB Gone Somewhere Epic
If you prefer to relax, spend the afternoon soaking up the beach club vibes. The Suluban cliffsides are dotted with several chic beach clubs with infinity pools overlooking the ocean.
Hang out for the day at one of the cliffside beach clubs to lounge on poolside day beds and enjoy lunch with a view.
Share some cocktails, fresh seafood, or brick oven pizza while taking in the ocean panoramas. The beach clubs here are casual and affordable compared to hotspots like Seminyak.
Address for Suluban Beach: Jl. Pantai Suluban, Pecatu , Kuta Selatan, Badung, Bali
Evening: See the Sunset & Seafood Dinner at Jimbaran Beach
The Uluwatu area has some incredible sunsets. While Uluwatu Temple and Single Fin are mentioned on Day 1 of the itinerary, you could consider returning to these two places.
Other options include Jaran Hill or Karang Boma Cliff for jaw-dropping sunset views.
Afterward, end your second day at one of the lively open-air beachfront restaurants. Head to Jimbaran Beach, located 13.5 kilometers (8.4 miles) away from Uluwatu Temple.
Sit in the sand while enjoying a romantic dinner of grilled seafood, island cocktails, and live music into the night.
A local recommended eating at Bela Seafood Cafe for the incredible sunset and seafood options
Some restaurants require reservations, so you’ll want to plan.
Address for Jimbaran Beach: Jimbaran, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Uluwatu Itinerary Day 3: GWK Cultural Park & Relaxation
Morning: Explore GWK Cultural Park
Dedicate your last morning in Uluwatu to visiting the iconic Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park, located about a 15-minute drive from Uluwatu’s beaches.
Sprawling across nearly 250 acres on a hilltop overlooking the ocean, GWK is home to a massive statue of the Hindu God Vishnu riding the mythical eagle Garuda.
At 120 meters (394 feet) tall, this is currently the largest statue in Indonesia.
After arriving, take your time to wander through the lush park, stopping to take in the mammoth statue from different angles and vantage points.
This tall Garuda Statue is a famous landmark in Uluwatu. Photo credit: BRB Gone Somewhere Epic
You can opt for a guided tour to truly understand the cultural significance behind the statue and the park’s design.
Don’t miss the various art and performance venues spread throughout the park.
Try timing your visit to watch one of the traditional dance or gamelan musical performances held regularly. There is also a daily Kecak show at 6:00pm.
Address: Uluwatu St, Ungasan, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali
Admission Cost:
- General Admission: 125,000 IDR ($8.15) for Adults, Children, Seniors – Buy tickets ahead of time here
- Ultimate Admission Bundle: 375,000 IDR ($24.50) (includes a guided tour of Garuda Wisnu Kencana Statue)
- Shuttle service: 40,000 IDR ($2.60) per person for travel around the park
More Information: Website | Facebook
Afternoon: Lunch & Relax at Padang Padang or Bingin Beach
After exploring GWK’s Cultural Park, head back to Padang Padang Beach for a relaxing afternoon.
Even though Padang Padang Beach was mentioned on Day 1, it’s a beautiful place to visit again on your third day in Uluwatu.
Rest up at the beachfront Padang Padang Cafe for a long lazy lunch of fresh seafood and coconut water while enjoying the ocean views. The cafe has an extensive menu but is casual and budget friendly.
Spend the afternoon swimming, surfing, reading or just relaxing on Padang Padang’s pretty white sand beach.
Its sheltered layout often means the waves are calmer here than on other Uluwatu beaches which are ideal for a chilled last day.
If you want to change it up, consider visiting Bingin Beach which also has incredible sand and endless cafes to hang out for the afternoon.
You’ll want to spend plenty of time at Uluwatu’s beaches on your itinerary. Photo credit: BRB Gone Somewhere Epic
Evening: Dinner & Drinks at Ulu Cliffhouse
Cap off your final night in Uluwatu with sunset drinks at the chic Ulu Cliffhouse. This place is perched on a cliff offering unmatched views of the sweeping Indian Ocean.
Watch the sunset from the infinity pool or with creative cocktails at the modern cliffside bar.
The Ulu Cliffhouse has a trendy vibe and innovative menu perfect for a special last night in Uluwatu. Stick around for dinner too – the seafood and grill dishes are exceptional.
Address: Jl. Labuan Sait No. 315, Pecatu, South Kuta, Pecatu, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
More Information: Website | Facebook
Where to Stay in Uluwatu
Uluwatu offers a nice mix of accommodations from budget guesthouses to luxurious cliffside resorts.
Click here to see accommodation options in Uluwatu on Booking.com.
Glamping: For a unique stay, go glamping in Bali at the trendy Origin Uluwatu site with luxury tents overlooking the ocean.
Budget: Stay central in Uluwatu at friendly guesthouses such as Flower Bud Bungalow and Olas Homestay.
Mid-range: Village Bali and Ikigai Uluwatu Beach are fantastic options with swimming pools for under $200/night.
Luxury: For 5-star indulgence, don’t miss Six Senses Uluwatu, Bulgari Resort, Alila Villas Uluwatu, The Edge Bali, Anantara Uluwatu Resort, and Karma Kandara.
Bali Visa Information
Before visiting Bali, check if you need a visa to enter the country.
Otherwise, Bali allows visa on arrival (VOA) at the Ngurah Rai International Airport or e-visa on arrival (e-VOA) for 90 countries.
The cost is 500,000 IDR ($35 USD) per person and lasts for 30 days. The VOA counter accepts equivalent currency if you don’t have any Indonesian Rupiahs (IDR) on hand.
The e-visa on arrival will expedite your Immigration process. You can apply for one before your trip on the official e-VOA website here.
For visitors who want to extend the visa for another 30 days, they will need to go to Immigration Office or go through the e-VOA website (if the e-VOA was done instead of in-person VOA).
Read More: Things to Know Before Traveling to Bali
How to Get to Uluwatu from Bali International Airport
Uluwatu is 22 kilometers (13.7 miles) from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, Bali. It can take up to 1 hour to get there by car due to the heavy traffic.
Before departing the Bali airport, buy a SIM card here. Or, set up an Indonesian eSIM in advance here. You’ll need to have a data plan to use ride-hailing apps.
For those in the U.S. who are looking for an international phone plan, consider Google Fi (formerly Google Project Fi). Life Of Doing has used this plan since 2016 and receives data and text in 200+ countries. There are no additional costs to the data plan. The data works great in the main Bali areas. Learn more and try it for free here.
By Private Driver
Hiring a private driver ahead of time is an ideal choice to get to Uluwatu. After the long travel, you don’t want to stress out on how to get to your next destination.
The driver will meet you at the Arrivals terminal or another place as discussed. Book a driver here.
If you need a recommendation for a driver who does airport pick-up/drop-off and around the island, Life Of Doing has used one driver for a few trips. Send a note here to inquire.
By Taxi
Taxis are available, but you’ll need to be careful of any fake taxis.
Bluebird is the official taxi and often uses the meter to charge for the distance. However, you’ll need to inquire if there is a flat fee or if the meter is used.
By Ride-Hailing Vehicles
Taking a ride-hailing vehicle such as Grab or Gojek car or motorbike is another option.
Grab (a popular app for Southeast Asia) and GoJek (Indonesia’s ride-hailing app) have pick-up at the airport terminal in the parking lot area.
The travel app is similar to Uber as you put in the starting and ending location and the ride includes the price of the ride. Exact cash or credit card is accepted for payment. If using a credit card, it’ll get charged through the app.
Related: Best Indonesian Travel Apps
Getting Around Uluwatu
By Private Driver, Taxi, Ride-Hailing
Getting around Uluwatu is easiest by hiring a private driver, taxi, or ride-hailing for the duration of your stay.
This allows you to easily get from beach to beach at your own pace rather than relying on limited public transport.
Taxis, private drivers, and ride-hailing cars or motorbikes are very affordable in Bali.
By Motorbike/Scooter
Alternatively, you can rent a motorbike or scooter which gives you maximum flexibility to explore Uluwatu’s cliffs and beaches at your own pace. Just be prepared for the area’s hilly terrain.
Note: If you do not know how to ride a motorbike, do not attempt to learn how to drive in Bali! You will get injured or cause injuries to others.
Ask your accommodation if there are motorbike rentals. Otherwise, arrange a motorbike rental to your hotel here.
By Public Transportation (Optional)
Public transport like the Kura Kura Bus is also an option, but it’s convenient only if you’re traveling between Kuta to Ubud and vice versa.
Note: This bus does not stop by the Uluwatu area, so you would need to get off at Kuta and then take a taxi or ride-hailing car to Uluwatu.
When to Visit Uluwatu
Uluwatu offers sublime weather year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from April – October.
The waves are at their best, the skies sunnier, and the chances of rain are lower.
Surf season kicks off in April and swells get bigger through August. Prices are also more reasonable, outside the high season.
While busy, June – August is a popular time with mostly sunny days and peak surf conditions. Accommodation prices spike during these peak months.
November – March brings occasional rain showers and clouds but slightly fewer tourists. Waves are smaller but surfing is still possible for beginners.
Uluwatu FAQs
What are the top things to do in Uluwatu in 3 days?
Visit the famous cliffside temple of Uluwatu Temple, explore the area’s stunning beaches and beach clubs, watch the sunset from trendy cliffside bars, and enjoy the laidback surf town vibe.
What is there to do in Uluwatu at night?
At night in Uluwatu, watch the Kecak fire dance at Uluwatu Temple or GWK Cultural Park, enjoy sunset drinks at cliffside bars like Single Fin, and check out the lively open-air beachfront restaurants.
What is the best month to visit Uluwatu?
The best time to visit Uluwatu is during the dry season from April to October, with peak surfing from June to August.
Where should I stay in Uluwatu?
Stay central near the beaches and temples in Uluwatu, or splurge on a cliffside resort like Six Senses or Alila Villas for 5-star indulgence.
What is there to do in Uluwatu when it rains?
When it rains, visit covered attractions like GWK Cultural Park or relax at one of the many beach clubs and oceanview cafes.
Do I need a guide for Uluwatu?
A guide is not essential but can be useful for learning about the cultural significance of the Uluwatu Temple and GWK Cultural Park.
Final Thoughts
It may be hard to leave the magic of Uluwatu after just 3 days!
This relaxed itinerary showcases the must-see sights from iconic temples to spectacular clifftop sunsets, while leaving time for blissful beach relaxation.
You can easily plan an epic yet affordable Uluwatu getaway.
Have an amazing trip!
If you’re continuing your Bali trip, check out these other areas to visit:
Like this post? Save it to your Bali Travel Pinterest board!
Featured photo & pin #1 photo credit: Violin via Depositphotos.com
