From an eco-friendly oasis made from old fishing boats to glossy it-bars hosting the world's most famous acts – these are the best beach clubs in Bali.
The hoteliers of Bali read our minds when they saw beautiful stretches of shore and thought, 'those need a bar’, and alas, some of the world’s best beach clubs were founded. But these hotspots are more than Bintang beers and beach – you’ll discover sustainable produce at the eco-friendly La Brisa, see world-famous musicians at Savaya and revel in a touch of the Mediterranean at Café del Mar. Here’s to sun-soaked daybeds that have hosted plenty a tiki tipple and the lantern-lit canopies that have echoed the soundtrack of some of our best nights.
Tropical Temptation, Uluwatu
Bali is a treasure trove of glamorous hotspots for sunset snaps, but Tropical Temptation might take the cake for dreamy backdrops. Imagine being ensconced in a cocoon of bamboo canopies, sipping coconuts and slurping back oysters, then add sparkling views of Bali’s best beach – that’s picture-perfect. There is so much to love at this beachside haven, including foam-filled pool days, a shipwreck banked on the shore and tropical tipples that are well worth the trek. Jam out to DJs or knock back a truffle pizza and relax in a place where limitless happiness is the motto.
La Brisa, Canggu
Do you want to leave long nights on the town behind in favour of palm-lined relaxation? La Brisa has all that and a bag of chips. La Brisa showcases the essence of Bali – melding the dense jungle foliage of Ubud with the elegant bare-foot luxury of Canggu. The club is built from over 500 old fishing boats and warm glowing lights and maritime touches abound. The venue is eco-friendly with a menu catering to ocean-fresh seafood and sustainably sourced produce; it even hosts an organic market every Sunday. There is still nightlife, crème-de-la-crème cocktails and poolside daybeds – but the kids can come along too.
Savaya, Uluwatu
There is no dancing around the vibe here: Savaya is a party palace that hosts some of the world’s most renowned names – think Jason Derulo and Diplo – every week in the busy season. Its floating bar hangs 100 metres off the limestone cliffs of Uluwatu over the Indian Ocean, with sapphire infinity pools dazzling below. You can whet your whistle across five bars, each serving top-shelf libations plus carbs galore to keep you going all night long. For the complete A-list experience, stay at the nearby Alila Villas Uluwatu and bid memories of your past life adieu.
Finns Beach Club, Canggu
Finns Beach Club is famously large and in charge, occupying a sprawling estate on the beach with multiple bars and eateries. It has coined itself ‘the world’s best beach club’, and Finns delivers with a club-meets-restaurant dining experience at Monsoon, a late-night sushi bar, café and al-fresco coastal dining at St Tropez. The main event is the megalith pool that surrounds a pumping dance floor and floating daybeds. Book yourself in for a bottle of bubbles over New Year's Eve and toast to an unforgettable send-off. Stay at the nearby Swarga Suites Bali Berawa for a speedy Grab ride home.
Potato Head, Seminyak
If you are marking your calendar with an itinerary of beach clubs to visit on your trip, make Potato Head the first. This legendary resort complex has perfected the art of the first impression – the moment you step into its bubble, a golf cart comes to sweep you off your feet, through the bamboo-lined driveway, and to the front entrance. On the walk in, pass recycled art pieces and a record store before meeting the window-shutter wall that hides its infamous beach club. Echoing like a coastal cathedral, Potato Head’s DJs play the perfect mellow house soundtrack to sit back and watch the waves crawl in. Soak up the sun, order a lemongrass martini to your poolside daybed and reach your Zen.
Café del Mar, Canggu
Born from the world-renowned Ibizan beach club chain, Café del Mar’s iconic Mediterranean lifestyle experience has made its way to Bali. The soundtrack of summer was quite literally invented here, so expect the very best chillout tunes set against a simmering sunset. The dining is also top-notch, with notable Mediterranean influence throughout, from swanky La Mer Restaurant to its more casual counterpart, The Arcade. Book a private suite, the best seat in the house, and dip in and out of the pristine water at your leisure.
Sundays Beach Club, Uluwatu
Breathtaking aquamarine views laced with frothy waves reward guests making the long descent down the Uluwatu cliffside to Sundays Beach Club. Earthy bamboo and straw interiors match the tranquil views, producing an almost luxe deserted island spectacle. Find a bean bag under the shade and rehydrate with a ginger mocktail before taking to the waves on a complimentary boogie board. On your return, have a wagyu sandwich or wood-fired pizza waiting – purchased with your food and drink credit included with the entry fee. Enjoy exclusive VIP access to Sundays Beach Club when you stay at The Ungasan Clifftop Resort.
The Lawn, Canggu
If you find yourself staying at the Hotel Tugu Bali, surrounded by antiques, art and lush gardens, you’ll be keen to keep the verdant vibes going with a visit to The Lawn. For the better part of a decade, this Bali institution has been serving up delicious charcuterie boards, poke bowls and spritzers on its manicured lawn. The venue is known to host beachy bands and famous artists, creating culture that lives and breathes surf. Sitting on one of the island’s best longboard waves, The Lawn has seen champion athletes shred the shores right on its doorstep. It also proudly displays artwork that encapsulates street and surf culture the world over.
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Looking for more inspiration? Check out Bucket List Bars: Why Rock Bar in Bali Should Be at the Top of Your List.
