Bali’s beaches have long been the crown jewels of Indonesia’s tourism industry, but beyond the bustling shores of Kuta and Seminyak lies a hidden escape—Virgin Beach.
Nestled in the quiet village of Bugbug in Karangasem, this unspoiled stretch of coastline remains a well-kept secret, far from the crowds and commercialization that define many of Bali’s more famous seaside destinations.
Depending on whom you ask, Virgin Beach goes by several names. International travelers often refer to it as Virgin Beach, enchanted by its raw, untouched beauty.
Others call it White Sand Beach, noting its uniquely pale shoreline—a rarity in Karangasem, where most beaches are covered in volcanic black sand. Locals, however, know it best as Perasi Beach, named after the nearby village.
Though its sand is not as strikingly white as that of Padang Padang or Pandawa Beach, Virgin Beach carries a distinct charm of its own.
Its color is shaped by the volcanic activity of Mount Agung, which looms about 33 kilometers away, lending the beach a natural character unlike any other.
Reaching Virgin Beach requires a bit of effort. Located roughly an hour and a half from Denpasar, the drive takes visitors through quiet Balinese villages and scenic countryside.
The beach itself is somewhat hidden, with minimal signage marking the way. Asking a local for directions? Mention Perasi Beach, as that’s the name they’re most likely to recognize.
What makes Virgin Beach worth the journey? Beyond its secluded atmosphere, the beach offers an experience that feels refreshingly authentic—far removed from the glossy, highly curated resorts that dominate much of southern Bali.
Pristine Sand and Crystal-Clear Waters
Virgin Beach’s soft, pale sand is a striking contrast to the deep blue of the ocean. The waves here are gentle, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely swim or a relaxing afternoon by the shore.
A Photographer’s Dream
For those who seek the perfect beachside snapshot, Virgin Beach delivers. Towering cliffs, traditional fishing boats, and the ever-changing hues of the Bali Sea create a setting that feels almost cinematic.
Simple Pleasures, Unspoiled Beauty
While you won’t find luxury beach clubs or high-end restaurants here, that’s precisely the appeal. Instead, small, family-run warungs serve fresh seafood, while the occasional vendor offers cold coconuts straight from the tree. It’s a place to unwind, to disconnect, and to experience Bali as it once was—before the world discovered its magic.
For travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate connection with Bali’s coastal wonders, Virgin Beach is a destination worth discovering.
It may not have the international fame of Seminyak or Uluwatu, but perhaps that’s exactly why it remains so special. Hidden away in Karangasem, this untouched paradise invites those who find it to stay a little longer, breathe a little deeper, and embrace the rare luxury of solitude by the sea. (BT)
