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 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!
Tucked away in the shadow of the enormous luxury resort Ayana Resort, Tegal Wangi beach 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!
How to Get to Tegal Wangi Beach
Tegal Wangi beach is located just between Ngurah Rai airport and more popular beaches in Bukit Peninsula 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.
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!
Getting to the Hidden Beach
Once you park your car/scooter, 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 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, and make all your friends jealous!
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 the dip as sunset approached in the evening.
Oh, a word of caution – enjoy soaking in the natural pool, but do not go 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!
Tegal Wangi beach is fairly small, but with only a handful of visitors in a day, there is plenty of space for all to enjoy if you want to make a beach day at this secluded location.
If you decide to stay all day, make sure you take food/drinks with you, as there are no shacks or stands at this beach.
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.
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 hotels close to this special spot, check out the reviews and availability around Uluwatu!
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!
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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 😉