5 Spots in Bali Where You Can Avoid the Crowds

Gunung Payung Beach
Finding a secluded beach in Bali is every traveller’s dream and we might just have the best one for you. Gunung Payung Beach is on Bali’s southern coast; to get there head to Kutuh village from Nusa Dua – it’s to the east of the famous Pandawa Beach. You have to pay a small fee to enter and then you’ll need to descent over 100 steps to the beach, but it’s worth it for the stunning views, clean (almost) deserted beach and the cool caves that offer shelter from the heat. Bring shoes to swim in as the water is quite rocky.

West Bali National Park
To get a nature hit, head to this beautiful national park in west Bali. The beaches are beautiful, but more importantly the snorkelling around Menjangan island is some of Bali’s best. Organise a local guide and explore deeper in the jungle and you’ll be rewarded with deer (yes, deer!), eagles, troupes of black monkeys, even wild boar.

Mystery Boulder Beach
Known locally as Yeh Leh, this photographer’s paradise is located in Jembrana, just off the Denpasar-Gilimanuk highway. Instead of the usual, white sand and aqua water, this beach is known for the polished boulders that fill the beach. The best time to visit is at sunset when the colours of the sky are reflected in the ocean as the waves wash over the boulders – making for one helluva photo.

Munduk
The mountain village of Munduk is often overlooked as an overnight destination, however for a small fee the guest houses here are comfortable and have million-dollar views. Munduk is the perfect base from which to explore the nearby waterfalls, jungle treks and coffee plantations (for a tasting). A highlight are the restaurants with views over Twin Lake, where the Wanagiri Hidden Hills & Bali Swing reaches out over the cliffs. But it’s very popular so you’ll have to wait in line.