Bali’s Hidden Coastal Paradise
When it comes to Bali’s stunning beaches, spots like Kuta, Seminyak, and Jimbaran often get all the attention. But if you’re looking for a cleaner, quieter, and dramatically beautiful beach experience, Melasti Beach in Ungasan should be at the top of your list.
Located on Bali’s southern Bukit Peninsula, Melasti Beach offers clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, towering limestone cliffs, and a relaxed vibe away from the tourist-packed beaches up north.
Why Visit Melasti Beach Ungasan?
Melasti Beach stands out for its:
- Breathtaking Coastal Cliffs: Dramatic limestone formations surround the beach, providing incredible views and natural backdrops.
- Scenic Cliffside Road: A winding road carved through the cliffs leads down to the beach — a popular spot for Instagram photos.
- Crystal Clear, Calm Waters: Thanks to the offshore coral reef, the waves are gentle, making it one of the safest beaches for swimming in Bali.
- Clean, Spacious Sands: Well-maintained and less crowded, the beach offers plenty of space for sunbathing or relaxing by the sea.
Things to Do at Melasti Beach
1. Relax and Swim
The calm, shallow waters are ideal for a relaxing swim. During low tide, natural rock pools appear perfect for wading and cooling off.
2. Watch the Sunset
Stay for one of Bali’s most beautiful sunsets. The horizon glows with warm colors, making it a romantic and peaceful spot in the evening.
3. Beachfront Cafes & Beach Clubs
Popular spots like Cattamaran Beach Club and Palmilla Beach Club offer comfy daybeds, seaside dining, infinity pools, and cocktails with music.
4. Take Photos and Explore
Capture stunning shots along the cliffside road, rock formations, Balinese gates, and tide pools. It’s a paradise for travel photographers and content creators.
5. Witness Balinese Ceremonies
The beach is a spiritual site for locals, especially during the Melasti purification ceremony before Nyepi Day, Bali’s Day of Silence.
Tips for Visiting Melasti Beach Ungasan
To make your visit smooth and memorable, keep these handy tips in mind:
- Arrive Early – Visit between 8 – 9 AM for a peaceful atmosphere, good lighting, and to claim the best spot on the beach.
- Bring Cash (IDR) – While beach clubs accept cards, you’ll need cash for entrance fees, parking, local warungs, and rentals.
- Use Reef Safe Sunscreen – The sun can be intense between 11 AM – 3 PM protect your skin and Bali’s marine life with reef safe sunscreen.
- Check Tide Schedules – Low tide reveals natural rock pools and makes for safe swimming. High tide can bring stronger waves near the cliffs.
- Bring a Dry Bag – Useful for keeping phones, cameras, and valuables safe from water and sand.
- Dress Modestly Near Sacred Areas – Swimwear is fine on the beach, but cover up when walking by temples, gates, or during ceremonies to show respect.
- Hire a Local Driver or Rent a Scooter – Melasti is 40 – 45 minutes from the airport. Renting a scooter is fun, but hiring a driver for a full day south Bali tour is safer and more convenient if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
- Stay for Sunset – It’s worth waiting Melasti’s sunsets are colorful, peaceful, and often less crowded than Uluwatu or Jimbaran.
- Be Careful on Slippery Rocks – If exploring tide pools or rocky spots, wear non-slip sandals or water shoes to avoid slipping.
- Leave No Trace – Help keep the beach clean use trash bins or take your rubbish with you. Melasti is known for its cleanliness let’s help keep it that way.
Entrance Fees & Facilities
Entrance Fee:
IDR 10,000 (approx. USD 0.65) per person
Parking: IDR 5,000 for scooters, IDR 10,000 for cars
Facilities Include:
- Large parking area
- Public restrooms and showers
- Beach chairs and umbrella rentals
- Beach clubs and local warungs
- Lifeguards on duty
How to Get There
Location: Ungasan, South Kuta, Bali
Travel Time:
- 40 – 45 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport
- 30 minutes from Jimbaran
- 20 minutes from Uluwatu Temple
Getting There:
- Rent a scooter: IDR 70,000 – 100,000/day
- Hire a private driver: From IDR 500,000/day
- Ride hailing apps: Grab and Gojek operate in the area
Google Maps: Melasti Beach Ungasan
Nearby Attractions
- Uluwatu Temple (20 mins) – for sunset views and the Kecak fire dance
- Pandawa Beach (10 mins) – known for its wide sandy shore and cliffside statues
- Green Bowl Beach (15 mins) – a small, hidden beach great for surfers and explorers
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park (20 mins) – home to the massive Vishnu statue and Balinese performances
Final Thoughts
Melasti Beach Ungasan is a hidden gem that combines natural beauty, modern beach clubs, and rich cultural traditions. Whether you’re here to swim, relax, dine, or watch the sunset, this is one Bali destination you’ll want to visit more than once.