Uluwatu – tips and places of interest

Uluwatu in Bali

Uluwatu is certainly known to most visitors to Bali. Often, however, one associates with the name first of all the famous temple Pura Luhur Uluwatu. However, Uluwatu is also the name of a place or a whole region on Bali. And an enormously worth seeing one at that. Where exactly Uluwatu is located and what you can see and experience there, you will learn in this article.

Where is Uluwatu?

Uluwatu is located in the extreme southwest of Bali. Situated in the very west of the Bukit Peninsula, you will find a great, varied landscape. Although Bali’s south is generally known as very busy, Uluwatu has a pleasantly relaxed atmosphere.

Uluwatu is also easy to reach. From the international airport Ngurah Rai you can reach the center of Uluwatu (near the temple Pura Luhur) in a little more than half an hour. For the journey from Ubud you should plan about one and a half to two hours.

Sights in and around Uluwatu

Even though the region of Uluwatu is primarily popular with surfers, a stay is also worthwhile for non-surfers. Worth seeing in and around Uluwatu are several spots.

Pura Luhur Uluwatu
© R.M. Nunes / shutterstock

Pura Luhur Uluwatu

Without question, Uluwatu is primarily known for its famous temple. Pura Luhur Uluwatu is the landmark of the region and a popular destination among tourists and locals alike.

The temple’s unusual location high up on the cliffs makes it a special sight where you can definitely spend some time. For more information on this temple, which is one of the most important in Bali, see the article on Pura Luhur Uluwatu.

Kecak Dance on Bali
Kecak Dance

Kecak Dance

On the grounds of the aforementioned Pura Luhur Uluwatu, a demonstration of the Kecak Dance takes place every evening. Although this classical Balinese dance can be seen in other places on the island, the atmosphere at the Uluwatu temple is very special. The performance takes place facing the sea. And how should it be different: Just in time for sunset, of course. The Kecak dance in Uluwatu in front of this spectacular scenery is definitely worth a visit.

Dreamland Beach on Bali
Dreamland Beach on Bali

Beaches

But not only the temple and the dance performances that take place there magically attract people. Also the sea and the numerous beaches in and around Uluwatu make sure that there is a lot going on in the place. Uluwatu is considered a surfer’s paradise par excellence. It is said that the most famous waves in Indonesia are those in Uluwatu.

Tip: In the whole region of Uluwatu the road traffic is much more relaxed than in the more densely populated areas of South Bali. Therefore, you can explore Uluwatu wonderfully with a rented scooter. Many accommodations not only offer a hostel, but also rent scooters for a fee. Alternatively, you can also find some scooter-only rentals in Uluwatu.

Culinary in Uluwatu

Uluwatu offers not only entertainment, surfing and beautiful beaches, but can also score with a wide selection of culinary delights. You can find here many small warungs that offer local Balinese food. If you are in the mood for Indonesian delicacies, you will definitely get your money’s worth there.

However, there are also numerous restaurants that offer food from the western hemisphere. Probably due to the large number of expats who settle in Uluwatu for a longer period of time, you can find various international cuisines here. Even Latin American dishes can be found in Uluwatu.

Conclusion: For whom is a trip to Uluwatu worthwhile?

The Uluwatu region is perfect for those who value a relaxed atmosphere. However, this does not mean that Uluwatu is sleepy – quite the opposite. Here you have many possibilities. From relaxed beach visits to fancy parties, Uluwatu offers everything your heart desires. Of course, Balinese culture is not neglected in Uluwatu. With the Pura Luhur one of the most important temples of Bali is located in the region. And of course not to be disregarded is surfing. Several world-class spots around Uluwatu invite you to come here and ride the waves. So Uluwatu offers a whole range in cozy surroundings and impressive scenery. A visit should not be missing in any Bali vacation.