Located in the southern tip of Bali island, lies an alluring area that will keep you coming back for more. It’s called Uluwatu, an area that offers a dramatic cliff-top view and surfing spots for those looking for some challenging waves.
On top of that, you’ll also get to explore many of its white-sand beaches and learn about the culture—making Uluwatu a must-visit spot during your Bali trip.
Be sure to explore it to the fullest with this ultimate guide. Find out what makes this place special and the five top Uluwatu things to do below!
What’s with Uluwatu Anyways?
The name Uluwatu is derived from the local language. “Ulu” means ‘lands end’, and “watu” means ‘rock’.
The place first became popular as a surfing destination in 1972 after its iconic appearance in the 1971 surf film Morning of the Earth by Alby Falzon and David Eifick, a classic film among surfers.
Surfers from across the globe then came flocking to Uluwatu to experience its challenging waves. Along the way, people also started discovering many other beautiful sights in Uluwatu, from its temple to its natural landscapes.
Uluwatu is a big area, so if you want to fully explore it, the best choice is to rent a vehicle such as a scooter or a car. But if you can’t drive, you can also download ride-hailing apps to get around Uluwatu.
As Uluwatu grows to be the tourism hotspot we know now, so do the kind of activities you can do here. Aside from surfing and taking in the picturesque view, you can also explore many other activities below.
Read Also: Weather in Bali: A Season Breakdown for Travelers
5 Best Things to Do in Uluwatu
1. Surfing
Photo: Adomas Aleno via Unsplash
The obvious answer is to go surfing. Uluwatu was first known as a surfing paradise after all. There are many surfing spots with varying difficulty, so be sure to select ones that match your skill.
For beginner surfers, it’s best to start with the waves at Dreamland or Padang Padang. After that, you can explore other surfing spots such as the ones in Thomas Beach, Balangan Viewpoint, and perhaps the most unique of all, Suluban Beach—where you’d have to enter a cove to access its highly popular surfing point named Blue Point.
2. Learn Their Culture
For a more authentic Uluwatu trip, be sure to stop by Pura Luhur Uluwatu to learn about their culture. The sacred temple was built for the spirits of the sea in the 10th century, evidenced by the intricate sacred sculptures and ancient architecture.
The temple is also crawling with monkeys, so you’ll also be able to see how they interact with their surroundings. Though you also need to stay alert, because these monkeys are mischievous and sometimes will play tricks on visitors!
3. Watch a Kecak Fire Dance
Photo: Mauro-Fabio Cilurzo via Unsplash
Another way to experience Bali’s rich culture is by watching a Kecak Fire Dance.
The show tells the story of Ramayana in a theatrical dance performance done by over 100 men. The dance has been around for a long time and has been used as a way to give out Hindu moral teachings to the people.
You can watch the Kecak Fire Dance routine at Pura Luhur Uluwatu. The show usually starts at 6 PM, so you’ll get to see hypnotic chanting and dramatic dance with the beautiful sunset as the backdrop.
Read Also: 7 Wonders of Bali’s Cultural Treasures You Should Never Miss
4. Go on a Paintball War
If you enjoy adrenaline-inducing activities, then you should consider going on a paintball war! In Jimbaran Hill Paintball Arena, you’ll be sent into a makeshift battlefield where you’ll have to fire paintballs at the opponents to win the game.
Think of it as PUBG in real life, you’ll also be pushed to plan out a strategy to win. Make use of the bushes and bunkers to hide and plan an ambush.
It’s an exhilarating game that will make your Uluwatu trip much more memorable. Don’t worry, all equipment and protective gear will be provided for you on-site.
5. Try Out Local Cuisines
Aside from all the fun activities, you’ll also have to keep your tummy happy for some energy. So be sure to try out some local foods during your stay—who knows, you might even want to recreate it at home.
For a more authentic taste, get your food from local warungs—streetside vendors who sell various menus. From the popular nasi goreng to other tasty gems such as babi guling, nasi campur, or bebek betutu, you’ll be getting a heap of these menus starting from as cheap as Rp25,000!
Read Also: Sun, Sand, and Fun: 5 Must-Visit Beach Clubs in Bali
Be One with Nature at Bobocabin Ubud
The view of the majestic Mount Batur right at your doorstep? Yes, please. Experience the fresh air of the mountains and escape the business of the city at Bobocabin Ubud!
Powered by the Internet of Things, give yourself some privacy with the smart window, adjust the lighting to enhance your comfort, and put on some music for a great ambience—all within your fingertips.
Feeling like grilling? Go make some BBQ with your loved ones for some quality time. To close the night off, enjoy the warmth of your very own campfire under the stars.
Download the Bobobox app on Play Store or App Store for booking and more information.
Header image: Lisa van Vliet via Unsplash
