Why Honeymoon in Uluwatu?
Uluwatu, a mix of 2 Balinese words, Ulu (Lands end) and Watu (rock), is one of the most popular surfing and tourist destinations in Bali. It is located in the southwestern tip of Bali in Indonesia and is very popular, especially among surfers, tourists and couples. The most beautiful beaches and striking cliffs in Bali can be found here as well as the most dazzling sunsets overlooking the Indian Ocean.
After its discovery as a prime surfing location in 1972, it has become a famous honeymoon destination featuring Bali’s most luxurious resorts, clubs and super fancy restaurants. Featuring beaches with clear turquoise water, pure white sand, and dazzling sunsets, this honeymoon destination will leave couples falling more in love. Although Uluwatu is a world-class surfing destination, there are also beginner waves suitable for newbies to surf.
Explore Uluwatu
Suppose your definition of a perfect honeymoon destination is a popular tourist location with dazzling sunsets, pristine white beaches, a place where you can learn fun and romantic activities like surfing and a place filled with luxurious hotels and resorts. In that case, Ulu, short for Uluwatu, is perfect for you.
Uluwatu is on the Bukit peninsula, south of the airport and about 30 minutes drive from the airport. Uluwatu village, commonly called Pecatu, shares borders with the Indian Ocean towards the south and has a series of caves, restaurants, and a breath-taking view of the sunset.
Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance
The Popular Uluwatu temple is just a 5-minute drive from the town and is where the famous traditional Balinese Kecak Dance is performed. The cliffs around the temple have a rich ecosystem of animals, including a thriving monkey kingdom. It is not unusual to find the monkeys being mischievous and snapping up headdresses, so you had better weave yours tightly around your head! Reports have it that if you bribe them well enough, they might just return it.
Beaches, cliffs and views
Towards the eastern side of Uluwatu, there is a lively jungle surrounded by beaches with dazzling sands. There are also a lot of fancy restaurants, clubs and luxury hotels.
If you would prefer to stay on the beach, sleep to the waves’ lulling sounds, and wake up to the smell of seawater and a gentle caress by the breeze, two hotels offer this option. The Padang Padang and Bingin hotels However, they are north of Uluwatu and can not be accessed entirely by car. You will have to walk down a path for the last 300meters.
One of the reasons Uluwatu is so popular is because of its dazzling sunsets that overlook the Indian ocean. Watching the sunset is a truly relaxing and romantic experience. Imagine you and your partner sitting down high on the cliff, leaning on each other, with the waves from the beach crashing below you whilst you experience a sunset so colourful that it leaves you transfixed. Bliss, I tell you.
Unlike the northern parts of Bali, which are much more reserved and have a few luxury options, resorts and restaurants in Uluwatu are high-class and top-notch. They offer varieties of services at a much lower price than you’d find in the western part of the world.
World-famous surf destination
We mentioned earlier that Uluwatu is a world-class surfing destination. It came into the limelight after a classic surf movie titled Morning Of The Earth was shot there. It has since become Bali’s most famous surfing location, seeing many surfing experts and even beginners. Although more experienced surfers use Uluwatu, there are still beaches with small waves that a beginner can learn with.
If you and your partner are surfing enthusiasts, or the idea of learning surfing on your honeymoon appeals to you, then Uluwatu is a must-visit for you. Padang Padang beach and the Canggu beach are the best beaches in Uluwatu for beginners.
If you’d rather not surf but do something less strenuous and more romantic, you could watch the brilliant colours of the sunset. This is truly a spectacle. Watching the sunset on Uluwatu is better experienced from the Single Finn restaurant - they have the best views.
Honeymoon Hotels in Uluwatu
Some of the most spectacular and luxurious hotels in Bali can be found in the Uluwatu region. Get ready to spend your money on a totally worth it luxurious lifestyle and treatment. Although most of these hotels are more expensive than others found in Bali, they give you your money’s worth. Here are our top picks on luxurious hotels in Uluwatu.
What are you looking for?
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AYANA Resort and Spa
5 starAffordable luxury30m drive north of UluwatuOne of the most luxury hotels in Bali. This spectacular resort is located between the airport and Uluwatu, on a rocky beach at one of Bali's best sunset spots. You won't get bored at the Ayana. It features many pools, wellness options, a rock bar named after a massive rock formation that towers above it, and a beautiful boardwalk to watch the sunset.
At the AYANA, there are superb room and private villa options to choose from, including a one-bedroom oceanfront villa with private pool. A wide range of dining options is available, with Balinese, Italian, Mexican, Japanese and Tapas restaurants.
Tip: not staying at the AYANA? If capacity allows, a small group of outside visitors is allowed to visit the Rock Bar for sunset. This is a great romantic option, but make sure to book in advance.
♥Check Availability
✓ Rated ★8.8 at Booking. → Read More ↓ -
Bulgari Resort Bali
5 starSplurge15m drive east of Uluwatu, on the cliffsBest resort on the South Bali Cliffs. Designed with a modern Italian look merged with traditional Balinese styles, the Bulgari Resort in Bali offers you a perfect and luxurious honeymoon experience in Uluwatu.
The ocean view villa boasts a spectacular view of the ocean, an open-air living area with a large ensuite bathroom, bathtub, rain shower, private patio, and a plunge pool. With modern facilities to make your stay there a comfortable and experience one. 24 hours butler service.
It also features a spa and fitness service, a boutique to shop for souvenirs, and superb dining options.
♥Check Availability
✓ Rated ★9.6 at Booking. → Read More ↓ -
Alila Villas Uluwatu
5 starSplurgeon the cliffs, 15m drive east of Uluwatu.Elevated above the limestone cliffs of Uluwatu, the Alilia villas is a 5-star paradise surrounded by stunning coastal vistas and a breath-taking view of the clear skies and ocean. Managed by the Hyatt hotel group, the luxury services here will be hard to find anywhere else in Bali. You cannot book a room here, all they offer are private villas!
Alila Villas is a 30 minutes drive from Denpasar Airport, close to Uluwatu on the south tip of Bali. Couples will love the 1-bedroom ocean-view pool villa with a king-sized bed and garden, a private pool, terrace, cabana, and a butler ready to help you 24 hours per day. Your holiday could not be any more luxurious!
♥Check Availability
✓ Rated ★8.9 at Booking. → Read More ↓ -
Anantara Uluwatu Resort
5 starAffordable luxuryBingin Beach, 10m drive north of UluwatuThis is a perfect resort for couples who want to enjoy some form of solitude while not being too far from thriving tourist locations. It features suites, villas, and penthouses.
Couples will enjoy the Anantara one-bedroom pool villa with a private courtyard and pool and an alfresco jacuzzi.
They offer side-by-side massages, a bedroom scattered with rose petals, and candlelit dinners, perfect for couples wanting a romantic getaway.
♥Check Availability
✓ Rated ★8.3 at Booking. → Read More ↓ -
Green Escape Eco Resort
4 starOn a budgetNear Bingin Beach, 10m drive north of UluwatuFive minutes walking distance away from the Bingin beach, this cozy eco-boutique resort offers five unique accommodations for a luxurious vacation experience.
The resort's design is a unique blend of modern facilities with authentic Balinese architecture and antiques. The Angkasa suite is perfect for honeymooners. With a king-sized bed, a day bed to relax and lounge in the sun, a semi-outdoor bathroom with a large bathtub, a rain shower and a private terrace overlooking the pool and garden. Features a minibar for refreshments too.
They also of surf classes, massages and dinner with a private chef.
♥Check Availability
✓ Rated ★9.0 at Booking. → Read More ↓ -
Suarga Padang Padang
4 starOn a budgetPadang Padang Beach, 5min drive from UluwatuDesign to incorporate modern designs with nature, this boutique resort nestled in Uluwatu surf breaks and Peninsula is another luxury hotel worth staying in. They offer pavilions, villas, and bedrooms.
They are designed with a minimalist approach with an eye for a rich artistic look and a cozy ambiance. The Ulin Pavilion, which can either come with a garden or Oceanview and a private entrance and bathroom with sea and pool view, is perfect for couples.
♥Check Availability
✓ Rated ★7.8 at Booking. → Read More ↓ -
The Ungasan Clifftop Resort
5 starBeachfrontPrivate villassouth cliffs, 20m drive east of UluwatuThe Ungasan Clifftop Resort arguably is located on Bali's best beach. Hidden between green cliffs, the white sand beach and turquoise-blue waters that you can only find on Bali's souternmost tip are reason alone to stay at Ungasan.
The Ungasan offers a luxurious selection of villas and bedroom suites. The one-bedroom ocean-view suite is our personal favorite for a perfect romantic getaway. It features a king-sized bed with direct ocean views, a large en-suite bathroom, a private plunge pool and garden.
♥Check Availability
✓ Rated ★9.7 at Booking. → Read More ↓
Honeymoon Activities in Uluwatu
There are lots of romantic things you can do with your partner while spending your honeymoon in Uluwatu. We’ve selected our favorites!
What type of activities would you like to do in Uluwatu?
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★ Our Favorite!
Experience the Kecak Fire Dance
CultureUluwatu TempleBesides the Uluwatu temple, at night a traditional Kecak Fire Dance is performed by the local Balinese population. After exploring the temple, you could stay for this spectacular fire dance show.
It's one of Bali's most popular and iconic art performances and takes place for an hour every day during sunset (from 6PM to 7PM). The dance is truly a sight to behold as it is not accompanied by any musical instruments but the dancers' acapella clap. It is usually sold out, so make sure you book the tickets in advance.
Book Tickets in advance -
★ Our Favorite!
Hike down to Nyang Nyang Beach
ActiveBeach10m drive from UluwatuIf you and your partner love a secluded beach with pristine white sand and clear aquamarine water, then the Nyang Nyang Beach is one of the locations you must visit.
This beach is one of the most beautiful and clean beaches in all of Bali. It is a short drive from Uluwatu, and you can easily rent a scooter to drive you there. You might as well hire a private car or driver. Most resorts provide this.
The beach has two entrances, one towards the east and the other towards the west. The roads are very steep. You'll be asked to pay a small entrance fee at the entrance, and then you can start your descent down the cliff to reach the beach. This takes about 15-20 minutes.
Cozy Warungs are at the top and bottom of the cliff to provide snacks and refreshments. The eastern side of the beach has a shipwreck you can explore and take pictures on. Explore the beach to your heart's content by taking a stroll with the sand sifting through your legs and the ocean breeze keeping you calm and relaxed. You can also go for a cool swim.
It would be best to start your journey and exploration mid-morning before it gets too hot and populated.
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★ Our Favorite!
Spectacular sunset at The Istana Spa
Relaxing & wellnessUluwatuOur favorite sauna in all of Bali. When we were living in Canggu we would sometimes drive the whole 1.5 hour way down to Uluwatu just to enjoy an afternoon of relaxation here. Book this place in advance, you won't regret it.
On Uluwatu cliff overlooking the Indian ocean, this sauna offers cold baths, steam rooms, two sauna's and large swimming pools. As it's facing east, you will be able to enjoy the most spectacular sunset from this place if you book the evening timeslot. Usually after sunset, the staff will light a bonfire, giving this place magical vibes.
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Garuda Wisnu Statue
Culture20 min from UluwatuTaller than the Statue of Liberty in New York, the Garuda Wisnu Statue towers above Bali. Enjoy a spectacular view over Bali together with your partner! The statue depicts the Hindu saga of Garuda and Wisnu.
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Night at The Savaya Club
Club15m drive east of UluwatuIn the mood for some grooving, dancing, and music? Then give the most luxurious club in Bali a visit! It is placed at a vantage point overlooking the Uluwatu cliffs and has the most charming walkway.
Don't be surprised to find famous DJs who will definitely have you dancing up a sweat. Because the club is popular and features famous DJs, it gets lots of visitors; thus, you should get a ticket in advance.
Visit Website -
Paragliding over the cliff
ActiveThrill10m drive from Uluwatu, Free hotel pickupIf you would rather do something more adventurous and thrilling, then you could consider paragliding. You can also go paragliding from the top of the cliffs. Nyang-Nyang Beach is the most suitable spot for this. Paragliding gives you a bird's eye view of the beaches in Nyang Nyang and a feeling of utter freedom.
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Surfing on Bali's most famous wave
ActiveThrillMany spots around UluwatuUluwatu is not known as Bali's most popular surfing destination for nothing. It has various surfing spots and has seen visits from many expert surfers.
Although most of the beaches there have waves that expert surfers can only ride, some beaches like Padang Padang beaches offer lessons for beginners and can also be used by beginner surfers for learning.
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Uluwatu Cave & Sunset Spot
NatureBeachUluwatuThe Uluwatu Cave is one of the entrances to one of the best surfing locations in Bali. You can also feel the full effect of the Uluwatu sunset from here.
The cave can only be accessed by foot. You will then descend the jagged steps that lead to the hidden cave beach. The cave features other hidden caves in it.
There are many restaurants on top of the cave. The most popular one is the Single Finn because of its excellent sunset views. Spend the day exploring the cave and end it with a sunset view from the Single Finn cave restaurant.
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Honeymoon Photoshoot from Uluwatu
ActivePrivate tourStart anywhere in Bali.Discover a wide variety of scenic locations. Book a professional photographer to take you to beautiful spots around the island for spectacular honeymoon pictures!
♥Book in advance
✓ Pickup included. Rated ★5/5 on GetYourGuide. → -
Ubud Day Trip from Uluwatu
ActiveNatureCulturePrivate tourStart from your Uluwatu HotelIt is possible to see the best of Ubud and its surroundings in single day! This highly rated PRIVATE tour (4.9 with 1100+ reviews) will pick you up in your South Bali hotel and drive you and your partner past all the highlights. This is a convenient way to see Ubud if you decide not to stay there overnight, but also a convenient option if you are actually staying in Ubud!
The list of included activities is really impressive. You will visit a spectacular waterfall and a traditional Balinese village near Ubud where traditional crafts are still practised. The famous Sacred Monkey Forest is part of the itinerary too, as well as the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. Finally, some spots in central Ubud are visited: the art market and Ubud Palace.
♥Book your private Ubud Day Tour!
✓ Highly rated tourguide at GetYourGuide. → Read More ↓ -
Instagram Highlights Tour from Uluwatu
NatureCultureDaytripGroup tourPrivate tourPick-up in your Uluwatu HotelThe Instagram Highlights tour is an amazing choice for (aspiring) influencers, but don't worry if you and your partner prefer to live a more private life: it is a great opportunity to see the most scenic parts of Bali and get some memorable pictures of your honeymoon regardless. You can choose between a small group tour and a private tour.
Highlights include the Lempuyang Temple (also known as Gate of Heaven) in East Bali, as well as the Tirta Gangga water palace. In Central Bali, the tour will pass the Tukad Cepung Waterfall and Tegallalang rice fields, where it is possible to take pictures on while riding a spectacular "Jungle Swing". This is one of the most popular tours in Bali, and is highly rated with 4.9 stars based on 3500+ reviews.
♥Book this experience!
✓ Operator has ★4.9 on GetYourGuide (3500+ reviews). → Read More ↓ -
Private Uluwatu Sunset Tour
CulturePrivate tourStart & Finish at your Uluwatu Hotel.Convenient option with hotel pickup. A private driver will pick you up at your hotel with his air-conditioned car, and show you around Uluwatu Temple overlooking the Indian Ocean and the traditional Balinese Kecak fire dance show (performance tickets not included). The stage and temple are located on a beautiful cliff from where you will experience one of Bali's best sunsets.
After sunset, the guide will drive you to Jimbaran Beach, a beautiful beach next to the fishing village of Jimbaran. This place is known for the freshest and tastiest grilled fish on the island. You will have time for a romantic dinner on the beach, before the driver will return you back to your hotel.
♥Book your Uluwatu tour with hotel pickup
✓ Operator has ★4.7 and raving reviews at GetYourGuide. → Read More ↓ -
East Bali Waterfall, Beach and Canyoning tour.
NatureBeachThrillGroup tourStart from your Uluwatu HotelA lot of water fun in a single day in the off-the-beaten path East Bali region. That is what this small group tour offers. You will be visiting a beautiful waterfall which is great for swimming (Tegenungan Waterfall), the scenic Blue Lagoon beach famous for snorkling (but also known for the monkeys roaming around), and a hidden canyon through which a river flows.
At the canyon, you will participate in canyoning activities, and at the Blue Lagoon Beach you will have the opportunity to snorkel with gear provided. Blue Lagoon Beach, near Padang Bai where the ferries to Lombok depart, is a fairly small beach, but we love it as it's surrounded by greenery and not very crowded.
♥Book your East Bali Tour
✓ Tour rated ★4.9 at GetYourGuide. → Read More ↓ -
Day trip with driver from Uluwatu
Private tourPick-up in your Uluwatu HotelDo you know exactly what you want to explore in Bali? Just hire a car with a private driver for a day and plan your own private tour. This is very easily arranged! Let a trusted driver with many 5-star reviews on GetYourGuide take you around the island.
You can choose a custom trip duration between 6, 8 and 10 hours. This will cost you between 48 to 80 USD for the entire group. This is an affordable option to explore the island. However, do note that while most guided tours are more expensive, these usually include amenities like entrance fees and lunch. When you plan your own tour, you will need to buy entrance tickets and lunch yourself!
TIP: This "tour" can start and end in any Bali location. You could even choose to start your day in one hotel, explore the island, and get dropped off at a new location, saving you additional taxi fees!
♥Book your private driver for 6, 8 or 10 hours
✓ Operator rated ★4.8 at GetYourGuide. → Read More ↓
Romantic Dining in Uluwatu
What are you craving? Uluwatu has it all!
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★ Our Favorite!
The Cave Bali
Fine diningPecatu, 20 mins from UluwatuWe've been here and LOVED it. The most spectacular fine dining experience you will find in Bali, in a real natural cave! Seven courses will be served, and between courses they will dim the lights and project a lightshow on the walls of the cave. The cave only has a few tables so definitely book this place in advance!
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★ Our Favorite!
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Jimbaran Fish Market
Local favoritesJimbaran, 25 min from UluwatuThis might sound like an odd suggestion for a honeymoon, but if you are up for an authentic local lunch experience... The town of Jimbaran just south of the airport hosts the largest fresh fish market in Bali, right next to the beach. You can buy your own fresh fish, shrimps or octopus here - and get some of the local restaurants next to the market to grill them for you for a small fee. Warung Bu Wiwin is our favorite, they will add rice, veggies and sauce to your fish.
If you prefer a slightly more comfortable dining experience, on the same beach in Jimbaran you will find all of the best local fish restaurants in Bali.
How to get to Uluwatu
Uluwatu is around 30 minutes drive from Denpasar Bali Airport. If your hotel doesn’t provide one, It is advisable to book a ride in advance so that you do not pay an exorbitant fee to taxis waiting at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Uluwatu in Bali?
It is on the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula in Bali, Indonesia.
How to get around in Uluwatu?
There are various means of transportation in Uluwatu. Taxis are everywhere, renting a scooter is affordable, and there is GoJek, the local taxi app similar to Uber.
How far is Uluwatu from Bali Airport?
It takes around 30 minutes by car from Denpasar Bali Airport to Uluwatu.
Is Uluwatu a good honeymoon destination?
Yes, Uluwatu is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Bali! It offers a variety of luxurious hotels, spectacular views, fun activities and fine restaurants.
How long should we stay in Uluwatu?
We recommend staying at least two nights, but you could definitely stay longer if you want. Uluwatu has a lot of activities to do, comfortable and Luxurious hotels, mysterious caves and amazing sunset views. There's a lot to do, eat and see.
Next destinations
For more travel ideas, we wrote a collection of 7-day, 10-day, 12-day and 14-day Bali Honeymoon Itineraries.
Find your next destination after Uluwatu!
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★ Our Favorite!
Ubud
LuxuryCultureNatureNightlifeMade famous by Eat Pray Love. Jungle, art, rice fields, monkeys and spirituality.
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★ Our Favorite!
Uluwatu
LuxuryBeachNatureSurfingPeninsula with cliffs, caves, surf and hidden beaches. Luxury resorts nearby.
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★ Our Favorite!
Munduk
NatureOff the beaten pathHidden gem with spectacular views. Explore crater lakes, waterfalls and temples.
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Seminyak
LuxuryBeachNightlifeSurfingUpscale area with wide sandy beach, great restaurants and fancy beachclubs.
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Amed
BeachCultureNatureDivingOff the beaten pathTranquil fishing villages, famous dive spots.
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Canggu
LuxuryBeachNightlifeSurfingSurf Beach, Party, Hipsers & Foodies.
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Lovina
BeachCultureNatureDivingOff the beaten pathCalm ocean away from the crowds. Watch dolphins and hike to waterfalls.
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Nusa Dua
BeachLuxuryLuxury hotels and (all-inclusive) resorts facing white sand beach with all the comforts you could wish for.
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Sidemen
NatureCultureOff the beaten pathOff the beaten path nature destination between rice fields and mountains.
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Nusa Penida Island
BeachNatureDivingHilly island of the coast of Bali with spectacular cliffs and rock formations.
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Gili Islands
BeachNatureDivingNightlifeReal tropical island vibes! Three small islands great for diving, beach and party.

Written by Olivia & Dirk
Hi! We have put together this guide with a lot of care, based on our own experiences. As a couple, we have lived in Bali for the past 5 years, and we fell in love with the island. We have visited every corner of Bali, especially the romantic places ;-). While our articles do contain affiliate links, you can trust us to recommend only the experiences that we love.
Read more about us or let us help you organize your honeymoon for you!