Tegal Wangi Beach: Bali’s Best Kept Secret for Epic Sunset Viewing
Are you looking for a quiet, off-the-grid location in Bali to enjoy a romantic sunset away from the massive crowds?
Look no further!
At the northwest corner in Jimbaran Bali lies Tegal Wangi Beach, a local gem that is known primarily by the Balinese and has fortunately remained off the tourist radar (so far!). It is probably one of the best hidden beaches in Bali.
This hideaway is surrounded by dramatic cliffs of Uluwatu Bali where you can enjoy not only beautiful sunsets but also a peaceful beach day away from the crowds. But if you love sunsets like I do, you are in for a treat because this secret spot has the best sunset view on the west coast!
Why Visit Tegal Wangi Beach?
Tucked away in the shadow of the enormous luxury resort Ayana Resort, Pantai Tegal Wangi (“pantai” means beach in Indonesia Bahasa) is still unknown to many visitors who prefer to chase the sunsets at more iconic Bali destinations such as Uluwatu Temple or Tanah Lot Temple.
While Tegal Wangi beach does not have a long stretch of white sand shoreline like Nyang Nyang beach, it has unique characters that are worth a visit.
Unlike any other beach, Tegal Wangi has a cave at the end of the beach where you can seek refuge from the sun and the heat during the day. And at low tide, natural jacuzzis appear where you can “bathe” and take some stunning photos, particularly during the golden hour!
I say Tegal Wangi takes the prize as one of the best beaches in Bali for sunsets!
Read on to learn all the travel tips you need to visit this special Uluwatu Beach!
Heading to Bali for the first time?
Make sure to check out the comprehensive Transportation Guide in Bali and the Ultimate 14-Day Itinerary for destination ideas or recommendations on what to do, where to stay and what to eat!
How to Get to Tegal Wangi Beach
Tegal Wangi Beach is located just between Ngurah Rai airport and more popular beaches in Bukit Peninsula Bali like Dreamland beach or Balangan beach.
If you are based in South Bali (Nusa Dua, Uluwatu, Jimbaran, Kuta beach), it should take you about 30 minutes to get to Tegal Wangi beach. I started in Sanur on the east coast, and it took me just about an hour.
From Ubud area, it may take 1.5 to 2 hours.
If you are based in South Bali, you can easily rent a motorbike and find your own way. But if you are traveling for more than 30 minutes, I’d recommend that you hire a driver and make a day trip out of it instead.
The secluded destination can be a bit tricky to find. From the main road of Jalan Karang Mas heading towards Jimbaran, turn right onto Jalan Tegal Wangi immediately after you pass Circle K Supermarket on your right-hand side.
Once you are on Jalan Tegal Wangi, you will drive through a winding road for about 5 minutes. You will come to a parking lot where you will find locals selling grilled skewers and corn-on-a-cob to the visitors at the entrance.
I was not approached for a parking fee on the day I visited, but be prepared for pay 2,000Rp which is a standard parking rate throughout Bali.
If you do not have an entire day to spend at the beach, you can easily add it to your day tours – just ask your driver or a guide to make a stop at Tegal Wangi around 5 pm before the sunset.
Best Time to Visit Tegal Wangi Beach
There is nothing like immersing yourself in breathtaking hues at sunset on Bali’s west coast.
The golden hour between 16:00 and 18:00 is the most beautiful time to visit the beach, but it also gets more crowded compared to daytime.
Around 17:00, the beach attracts locals as well as tourists who show up just to catch the sunset. But don’t worry, there is plenty of beach for everyone!
Watching the sunset while soaking in the natural jacuzzi is an experience you don’t want to miss!
Getting to the Hidden Beach
Once you park your car/scooter at the top of the cliff, it’s an easy climb down the rocky steps to arrive at the beach. The hike is not as steep or long as it is at Nyang Nyang beach or Nunggalan beach – I’d say 10 minutes tops. From the clifftop, you will be able to see the beach below, and the panoramic view is incredible! You can also see the infamous Rock Bar sitting at the top of the cliff.
Don’t forget to snap a photo before you start your trek to the beach!
About Tegal Wangi Beach Bali
You will thank me later for this ONE recommendation: check the Bali tide chart before you go!
Why, you ask?
Because at low tide, pockets of rock formations appear, allowing you to enjoy a natural jacuzzi with collected seawater from the ocean. Tegal Wangi beach jacuzzi is the only place you can enjoy such an incredible experience, not to mention insta-worthy photos you can take with this stunning backdrop!
How many people can say they have bathed in the ocean jacuzzi!? 😉
When I visited, I arrived around 4 pm when the tide was at 0 meters. It provided the perfect setup for taking photos and enjoying a dip in the “pool” as sunset approached in the evening.
Oh, a word of caution – enjoy soaking in the natural pool, but use caution when swimming in the ocean as the current can be strong in Uluwatu.
Also, be careful when walking on the rocks – there is a ton of moss growing on those rocks, and those things are slippery! I witnessed a big man fall flat on his ass and hurt himself while I was there – so please watch your step!
Aside from the fascinating rock formations, famous Uluwatu cliff views, and the beautiful golden hour reflections, you can also find a small, shallow “cave” at the end of the beach.
If you are into photography you can get creative with the cave opening and beach backdrop! Or, the cave is also a perfect hideaway from Bali’s scorching sun rays.
Even though Tegal Wangi Beach is fairly small, with only a handful of visitors in a day, it is a beautiful and secluded location for a relaxing beach day.
Other Things To Know:
- There are no toilets, showers, or changing rooms on the beach
- There is nowhere to buy drinks or snacks at Tegal Wangi. Take your own supply or food and drinks, especially if you are spending a day here. However, I did see roasted corn for sale in the parking lot!
After Tegal Wangi Beach Sunset
After enjoying the epic sunset, why not indulge in candle-light dinner on the beach? Jimbaran beach is renowned for the seafood BBQ along the beach, which is considered one of the popular “things to do in Jimbaran.”
Just a few minutes from Tegal Wangi beach, you will see a row of restaurants lined up along the beach offering you fresh catch of the day by the kilo.
Admittedly, the Jimbaran seafood is a bit touristy – but if you are in Bali, it’s something worth experiencing at least once! Go try Jimbaran Beach Club right on the beach.
Where to Stay in Uluwatu
For Uluwatu hotels close to this special spot, check out the reviews and availability here!
Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Uluwatu:
Budget = Olas Homestay (~$15/night)
Mid-Range = Uluwatu Breeze Village (~$45/night)
Luxury = Hideaway Villas Bali (~$145/nigiht) The private swimming pool you get with a view is spectacular!
Check out these destination guides!
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6 Comments
Michelle Stelly
That Tegal Wangi beach jacuzzi looks so cool! I can honestly say I have never experienced a jacuzzi at the beach. Great post and I will keep for when I go to Bali (I hope sooner rather then later). 🙂
Mo
Thank you Michelle – I have been to many beaches in Bali but this was the only one with a natural jacuzzi! It’s definitely worth checking out in Bali – it’s also quite hidden so you will be able to escape the crowds 😉
Emily
How cool are those natural pools! Such a great find. Any beach with shade is a winner for me 🙂
Mo
Thanks Emily! I love finding these hidden hot spots because after all, I think beaches should be relaxing 🙂
Stella
well than Jacuzzi looks fine as hell! i wish i’d known about this when I visited Bali this year! so jealous!
Mo
There is always next time! And it’s never a bad things to have a reason to go back 😉