Bali’s black sand beaches are just one of the reasons why the island is so unique. We fell in love with the black sand beaches in Bali and wrote this article to help you locate the best of them. Let’s get to it.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. And we can continue bringing you free tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates – you are awesome, and we thank you!
Why are there Black Sand Beaches in Bali?
Generally, black sand beaches are composed of volcanic minerals and lava fragments especially common to coastlines on volcanic islands. Which makes sense considering there are three volcanoes in Bali.
You see, it is no accident that Bali’s black sand beaches are located along the North and East coasts of the island. It’s in these regions that you’ll find Bali’s volcanoes – Mount Batur, Mount Agung & Mount Merbuk.
Interestingly, there is belief amidst the Balinese culture that hot black sand can help heal several ailments, including arthritis, nerve damage and vitamin deficiencies.
Which I assume stems from the similar belief that all of Bali’s volcanoes are incredibly sacred.
Did you know about Bali’s newest tourist tax implementation? From February 2024, most passengers traveling to the province of Bali must pay this tourism levy. Find out more about Bali tourist tax here.
The 6 Best Black Sand Beaches in Bali
1. Amed Beach
Amed Beach is the beach that runs adjacent to the main strip in town. Here you will find a selection of beach bars and restaurants, along with a great view of Agung; however, there aren’t any snorkelling opportunities.
It’s also quite a polluted beach as it’s where the fishermen park their boats. Nevertheless, it’s a sweet spot for a sunset stroll.
Related Read
2. Jemeluk Bay
Jemeluk Beach is the next bay along from Amed beach, and while there still tends to be many boats around, it’s far more pleasant and pretty.
Equipped with beach bars, warungs, sun loungers, and snorkelling, we could comfortably spend the entire day here.
Related Read
3. Lipah Beach
Similar to Jemeluk Bay, Lipah Beach is perfect for a touch of gentle snorkelling. Healthy coral reefs sit just metres out from the bay, and turtles are often spotted here along with an abundance of other marine life.
The beach isn’t very developed in terms of tourist infrastructure. But as a result, it’s a clean and gorgeous stretch of sand.
Related Read
4. Lovina Beach
Lovina is the most popular and consequently busiest black sand beach in North Bali. Here you’ll find various beachside bars and restaurants alongside water sports and other activities.
It’s also pretty relentless for beach hawkers and activity salesman so I’d bear that in mind if you’re looking for a relaxing day on the beach.
Otherwise, it’s a pleasant and mostly clean stretch of bay and ideal if you want in the heart of all the action.
Related Read
5. Mayo Resort
On the opposite end of the scale, if you’re seeking a remote black sand beach in Bali, you may consider staying at the beautiful Mayo Resort.
Located in the quiet beachside town of Seririt, Mayo Resort is a beautiful 3* beach establishment with a pool, restaurant, and astounding views which overlook the Bali sea.
Not to mention it’s perched upon a deserted black sand beach with one of the best sunset views in all of Bali.
6. Keramas Beach, South East Bali
Finally, on our list of the best black sand beaches in Bali, we have Keramas Beach. Located in the South East region of Bali, Keramas it’s probably the most remote beach South of Ubud.
So if you’re only in Bali for a short time and don’t fancy the long drive up North, this is the ideal black sand beach for you.
Remember, I mentioned the healing powers of the hot volcanic sand earlier on in the article? It’s especially prevalent on this beach, with several medicine men and women offering their services.
On that note, it’s worth mentioning that Keramas is very ‘local’, so it’s perhaps not the best beach for swimming or sunbathing.
It is, however, perfect to appreciate Bali’s natural beauty and culture with few other tourists around.
In terms of tourist hubs, Keramas Beach is most accessible from Ubud. It’s an easy 30-minute drive from the cultural heart of Bali, and you can tick off some other Ubud attractions on the way.
Best Time to Visit Bali’s Black Sand Beaches
The best time to visit the black sand beaches in Bali will be in the dry season, which runs from April to late September.
While there is always a chance of an odd rainy day, generally you can expect ideal conditions for sunbathing and water sports.
July and August are considered the high season in Bali, as well as Christmas, New Year, and Easter. Bali is at its busiest during this time, and prices rise at an alarming rate.
With this in mind, April, May, June and September are the best months to visit.
Enjoy These Gorgeous Bali Beaches!
Thank you for reading. I hope you enjoy Bali’s beautiful black sand beaches. If you have any questions or feedback don’t hesitate to reach out. Otherwise we wish you safe and happy travels.
Planning a trip to Bali?
Check out our Indonesia series for more travel tips and advice.
PIN IT FOR LATER
Crystal Thompson-Tower
Thursday 16th of February 2023
Can you walk along the black sand beaches and swim in the surf, or is the sand sharp?
Our Taste For Life
Wednesday 2nd of August 2023
Hi Crystal, the sand isn't sharp, it's the same to us.
21+ Hidden Gems of Bali: Find Undiscovered Locations to Explore
Thursday 2nd of April 2020
[…] But with so much attention on the tiny island, more and more tourists and travelers come to visit, seeking the adventure and magic that Bali promises like amazing food and black sand beaches surrounding Bali. […]