Nestled on the westernmost tip of the Uluwatu Peninsula, Padang Padang Beach remains one of Bali’s best-kept secrets—at least for those outside the surfing community. Unlike the bustling shores of Kuta or Seminyak, this secluded cove offers an intimate escape, framed by dramatic limestone cliffs and a stretch of pristine white sand.
The journey to Padang Padang is an adventure in itself. Located about an hour’s drive from Denpasar, the beach is accessible via Jalan Raya Uluwatu, just north of the entrance to Uluwatu Temple. From the main road, a narrow path leads to a small parking area, followed by a winding 500-meter descent through a cluster of souvenir stalls. The final approach is perhaps the most striking: visitors must squeeze through a narrow rock crevice before emerging onto a hidden paradise.
Once inside, the beach reveals its dual personality. To the left, a passage through the rocks leads to a more open shoreline, where surfers carve through the rolling waves. To the right, sunbathers recline on the sand, enjoying a sense of seclusion rarely found in Bali’s more commercialized beach destinations. The limited crowds, mostly international travelers, add to the illusion of exclusivity—almost as if one has stumbled upon a private retreat.
Padang Padang gained international fame after serving as a filming location for Eat, Pray, Love, the 2010 movie starring Julia Roberts. But long before Hollywood’s arrival, this spot had already earned a reputation among surfers for its world-class breaks. Today, it continues to attract a devoted following, from thrill-seekers chasing the perfect wave to wanderers in search of Bali’s quieter, more contemplative side.
Though Padang Padang is no longer Bali’s best-kept secret, it still exudes a rare charm that many beaches have lost to mass tourism. For those willing to step off the beaten path, this hidden cove remains a sanctuary of sun, surf, and solitude. (BT)
