Full-Day Tour Around Nusa Dua and the Bukit Peninsula

A wide-angle view of a traditional Balinese Kecak dance performance with dozens of male dancers chanting in a circle on a stage at Uluwatu Temple, with a crowd of spectators and a cliff overlooking the ocean at sunset.

·   Morning: Tanjung Benoa Water Sports

o   Start your day with adrenaline at Tanjung Benoa, known as Bali’s water sports hub. Arrive by 9am (leave from Seminyak or Ubud around 8am). Choose from jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, or even flyboarding. The morning sea conditions are calmer, making it safer and more enjoyable.

o   Pro Tip: Book activities in advance and check for package deals. Bring a dry bag for valuables and a change of clothes.

·       Late Morning: Puja Mandala

o   Just a short drive away, visit Puja Mandala, a unique hilltop complex showcasing Bali’s religious diversity. Here, a mosque, Catholic church, Protestant church, Buddhist temple, and Hindu temple all stand side by side. It is a peaceful, symbolic stop highlighting harmony and tolerance in Balinese culture.

o   Pro Tip: Dress modestly and respectfully if entering any worship areas.

·       Lunch Stop: Pandawa Beach

o   Head to Pandawa Beach around midday. Known for its white sand and dramatic limestone cliffs, it is also lined with simple beachside warungs serving fresh seafood and local dishes. Enjoy lunch with your feet in the sand or under a shaded umbrella.

o   Pro Tip: Try freshly grilled fish or coconut water straight from the shell for a refreshing local experience.

·       Early Afternoon: Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park

o   After lunch, drive to GWK Cultural Park to see the towering Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue, one of Bali’s most impressive landmarks. Wander the expansive grounds, visit cultural exhibits, and catch dance performances if the timing fits.

o   Pro Tip: Wear a hat and sunscreen since there is limited shade. Check the schedule online for performance times to make the most of your visit.

·       Mid Afternoon: Melasti Beach

o   Next, head to Melasti Beach, known for its wide stretches of white sand and striking cliff backdrop. The beach is perfect for a swim or simply to lounge and enjoy the views.

o   Pro Tip: Melasti is less crowded than other southern beaches; arrive in the afternoon for good lighting and a more relaxed vibe.

·       Late Afternoon: Padang Padang Beach

o   Continue to Padang Padang, a small cove accessed by a steep staircase. Famous among surfers and featured in Eat Pray Love, this beach has a special charm, especially in the golden afternoon light.

o   Pro Tip: Watch out for the cheeky monkeys at the entrance and on the walk down. Keep your belongings secure.

·       Evening: Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Dance

o   Head to Uluwatu Temple to explore the cliffside pathways and stunning ocean views before sunset. Stay for the iconic Kecak fire dance performance at 6pm, set dramatically against the setting sun.

o   Pro Tip: Arrive early to get the best seats for the dance. Keep small items tucked away, as the temple monkeys are notorious for snatching sunglasses and phones.

·       Dinner: Jimbaran Seafood

o   Finish your day with a seafood feast on Jimbaran Beach. Pick your fish and enjoy it grilled over coconut husks, served right on the sand with the sound of waves in the background.

o   Pro Tip: Choose a table close to the water for a true beachfront dining experience.

·       Suggestions for the day:

o   Start early to enjoy cooler weather and quieter spots.

o   Bring cash for beach chairs, entry fees, and small purchases.

o   Pack sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towel, and a change of clothes.

o   Expect a long but rewarding day, around 12 hours total.

o   Include your driver’s meals and consider paying around RP 1 to 1.1 million for a full-day tour.

Share this post on: