Tanjung Benoa — a hidden beach at the very south of Bali, where an atmosphere of a relaxed harbor reigns.
This is an ideal place for those who dream of calm swimming or want to turn the sea into their playground.
The quiet rustle of palms, the whisper of passing boats, and a sense of boundless space — it is this unique combination of tranquility and water excitement that you will find at Tanjung Benoa Beach.
Description
Tanjung Benoa is a typical protected bay located on a narrow peninsula to the northeast of Nusa Dua (literally a 15-20 minute leisurely walk along the shore).
Natural breakwaters and coral reefs block the way to the open ocean, turning the coastal waters into a giant pool.
Key feature of the beach — significant tides and ebbs.
Thus, in the morning, during low tide, the sea retreats hundreds of meters, exposing a wide strip of light beige sand and creating ideal conditions for walks, photographs, and observing sea stars.
After noon, the tide returns, narrowing the shoreline, but filling the bay for water entertainment.
Overall, a leisurely atmosphere reigns here, oriented towards family and active recreation on the water.
How to get there
- From Denpasar / airport by taxi / transfer - 30-40 minutes,
- From Kuta/Seminyak - 40-60 min.,
- From Nusa Dua - 10-15 min by taxi or car, 15-20 on foot.
Entertainment and recreation
If you are beckoned by depths or crave adrenaline, Tanjung Benoa is a suitable beach!
The bay offers the most powerful selection of water activities in southern Bali at excellent prices, while the water is calm and safe:
- Diving: from the shore available diving and snorkeling among reefs (you can see clownfish, stingrays).
- Jumping on waves: "banana", water skiing or wakeboard. Good memories guaranteed!
- Expand horizons: fly over the azure on parasailing (parachute from a boat) or feel like "Iron Man" on flyboard.
- Diving with comfort: try underwater scooter (Seabob) or just walk along the bottom.
- Sailing: go by boat to neighboring islands (Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, or "Turtle Island" Pulau Serangan – turtle breeding center).
Important! Bargain! The starting price is usually heavily inflated. Boldly offer 40-50% of the quoted amount.
What's nearby?
Thanks to its location, Tanjung Benoa is a convenient start for excursions:
- Nusa Dua: luxury hotels, beaches, and galleries a 5-minute walk away.
- Tanah Lot: legendary temple on a rock – about half an hour by scooter or car.
- Turtle Island: organized sea excursion will introduce you to the turtle farm and underwater world.
- All of southern Bali: you can go to Uluwatu (temple and Kecak dance), Tirta Gangga Water Palace, visit Celuk silver masters.
Infrastructure
The Tanjung Benoa coastline is densely built up with hotels of different classes and budgets – from family guesthouses to luxury resorts with ocean views. Along the shore are located:
- Cafes and restaurants. From simple warungs (local cafes) with seafood and nasi goreng to international cuisine restaurants. The choice is huge!
- Comfort. They offer sun loungers and umbrellas (almost always paid; price 50,000 - 100,000 rupiah / 3-6 USD per day).
- Shower.
- Shops/pharmacies nearby. There are simple shops along the road by the beach, large supermarkets deeper in the Benoa area. Pharmacies also within walking distance (e.g., tourist "Kimia Farma").
Total: practical and sufficient for a good rest. The only downside is the tide, which significantly reduces the amount of sand near hotels, while the state section in the northern part is wider.
Tips for tourists
- Parking: There are free public parking lots near the Garuda Wisnu Kencana monument or Puja Nareswari Temple. Paid parking available at some hotels/resorts.
- Optimal season: Best time for recreation is dry season (April – October). Arrive in the morning before 11:00 at low tide – so you can enjoy the wide beach.
- What to bring: Sunscreen mandatory (especially strong!), water/drinks, hat, cash rupiah (cards not accepted everywhere), bargaining mood for entertainment.
- This is an ideal place for: Travelers with children (gentle entry, safe water), lovers of various water sports, those seeking a calm, uncrowded seaside vacation, divers and snorkelers.
Frequently asked questions
- How much seaweed? Wind brings seaweed into the bay (especially noticeable in rainy season from November to March), but they are regularly cleaned.
- Benoa or Nusa Dua? Benoa is quieter, more democratic in prices and atmosphere, and has larger tides.
- Can children swim? There are almost no waves here, so yes, it's an excellent choice for a family vacation with children.
- What is the best time to visit? Recommended to visit in the morning (before 11:00), as the beach is very spacious and not so hot at this time. Daytime – ideal for water recreation.
Conclusion
Tanjung Benoa is a rare island of leisure on energetic Bali.
It does not try to be perfect – here the tides set the rhythm of rest, and seaweed can be washed ashore. Nevertheless, if you are looking for a safe and calm family place – this cozy beach will suit you!
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