Perched on the dramatic cliffs at the southern tip of Bali, Uluwatu is known for its beaches, world-class surf spots and the iconic Uluwatu Temple. I visited this village during my two month trip around Bali and loved it. Whether you’re here to see the fiery Kecak dance at sunset, ride the waves or take in the breathtaking cliffside views, you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Here’s your guide to the perfect 2 day Uluwatu itinerary.
This post may contain affiliate links. That means, if you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, read my disclaimer.
Quick Uluwatu 2 day itinerary overview
Day 1: Uluwatu Temple, cultural sites and Kecak Fire Dance at sunset
Day 2: Beach hopping, surfing and cave exploration
Best Time: April-October (dry season)
Getting There: 45 minutes from Ngurah Rai Airport
Where to Stay: Near Uluwatu Temple for easy access
Budget: £30-60 per day (mid-range)
Where to stay in Uluwatu
Finding the right place to stay for your Uluwatu itinerary can enhance your experience. Here are some of the best accommodation options close to Uluwatu’s temple and beaches.
Davu Sundara Villa Uluwatu is a short distance from Uluwatu Temple. This villa has a modern Balinese design with spacious rooms, a private infinity pool and stylish outdoor seating areas. Guests love the villa’s stunning views, especially during sunset.
For more hotels and the best deals in Uluwatu for your dates, explore the map below:
How to plan the perfect Uluwatu itinerary for 2 days
Uluwatu blends adventure, relaxation and culture, thanks to its serene beaches, legendary surf spots, hidden caves and yoga with ocean views. For me, the true highlight of Uluwatu was watching the fire and Kecak dance at the iconic Uluwatu Temple.
This 2 day Uluwatu itinerary balances cultural experiences with beach time, ensuring you experience both the spiritual and adventurous sides of this clifftop paradise. The key is timing your temple visit for sunset on day one, then dedicating day two to exploring the stunning coastline.
Uluwatu itinerary: Day 1 – Temple culture and sunset spectacle
Day one of your 2 day Uluwatu itinerary focuses on the spiritual and cultural side, culminating with the famous Kecak Fire Dance at sunset.
Morning: See one of the world’s tallest statues
A 20-minute drive from Uluwatu, is a park that’s home to the impressive Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue, one of the tallest statues in the world.
Standing at 121 metres, it depicts the Hindu god Vishnu riding the mythical bird Garuda.
The park also hosts performances, art exhibitions and festivals, making it a great place to delve deeper into Balinese traditions.
Buy your ticket to the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park here.
Afternoon: Karang Boma Cliff
From Garuda Wisnu Kencana, it’s a 25-minute drive to Karang Boma Cliff, also known as Uluwatu Cliff. This lesser-known spot offers panoramic vistas of the ocean and surrounding cliffs.
Spend time here enjoying the spectacular views and taking photos. The afternoon light creates beautiful contrasts across the dramatic clifftop landscape.
Late afternoon: Arrive at Uluwatu Temple
Head to Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) around 4pm, giving yourself plenty of time before the evening performance. This iconic sea temple is perched on the edge of a 70-metre-high cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean and is dedicated to the spirits of the sea.
Sarongs and sashes are provided at the entrance as a sign of respect when visiting the temple. Watch out for the mischievous monkeys who roam the area—they’re known to snatch loose items like sunglasses or phones. Explore the temple grounds thoroughly and secure a good spot for the evening show.
Enjoy the ultimate Uluwatu sunset kecak dinner experience here.
Evening: Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple
Stay at Uluwatu Temple for the sunset Kecak Fire Dance, a traditional Balinese performance that tells the story of the Hindu epic tale Ramayana. Accompanied by a haunting chorus of chanting men, the dance features elaborate costumes, dramatic movements and a fiery finale.
Book your ticket in advance for the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu temple here.
My experience at the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu Temple
We were watching the mythical Kecak and Fire dance at Pura Uluwatu, the famous cliff-side temple in southern Bali, when one of the performers looked at me, held his hand out and invited me up to dance in front of the 300-strong crowd. Of course I accepted his invitation.
The performance, set against the backdrop of a golden sunset and crashing waves, was nothing short of magical. Watching the flames flicker as the sun set over the ocean, while performers bring the ancient Ramayana story to life, is a moment I’ll never forget.
Don’t miss the Kecak Fire Dance at Uluwatu temple – book your ticket here.
Uluwatu itinerary: Day 2 – Beaches, surfing and coastal adventures
Day two is all about Uluwatu’s incredible coastline, world-class surf spots and hidden natural wonders.
Morning: Visit the ‘Eat Pray Love’ beach
Start day two with a 15-minute drive from central Uluwatu to Padang Padang Beach. This iconic beach was featured in the movie Eat, Pray, Love and is accessible via a steep staircase through a narrow cave opening.
Known among surfers as the ‘Balinese Pipeline’, it’s famous for its powerful reef breaks. Even if you’re not surfing, you’ll enjoy this small, picturesque cove. It’s a perfect spot for morning photography when the light is soft and ideal for a relaxed start to your beach day.
At lunchtime, stop at the nearby Ulu Cliffhouse for a stylish fusion meal at one of the area’s coolest venues.
Explore the best beaches of South Bali at your own pace on a private tour with a driver – book it here.
From Padang Padang, take a 15-minute drive to Suluban Beach (Blue Point), located beneath towering cliffs.
Beneath Uluwatu’s cliffs here lie hidden caves waiting to be explored. Suluban Cave, accessible from Suluban Beach, is a natural wonder with its narrow passages and tidal pools. It’s a must-see for adventurous travellers and photographers.
The beach itself is postcard-perfect, with turquoise waters, white sands and dramatic cliffs providing a stunning backdrop for your afternoon.
Visit Suluban as part of a full day tour of the area’s best beaches – book here.
Evening: Cliffside dining and sunset drinks
End your 2 day Uluwatu itinerary with dinner at Single Fin, located right on the cliffs above Suluban Beach. Famous for its lively atmosphere and panoramic views, it’s a great spot for cocktails and casual dining whilst watching the sunset.
From Single Fin, it’s a short 5-10 minute drive back to central Uluwatu accommodation, or you can arrange for your driver to pick you up if you’ve been using taxis throughout the day.
More beaches near Uluwatu
If you want to explore beyond the main itinerary, Uluwatu’s coastline has several more stunning beaches, each with its own character.
Bingin Beach has challenging waves and a laid-back vibe, making it perfect for experienced surfers seeking a quieter spot. It’s a 10-15 minute drive from central Uluwatu.
Nyang Nyang Beach is a secluded paradise 20 minutes from central Uluwatu. This hidden gem has soft white sands and shipwreck remnants for an adventurous vibe. The beach requires a short but steep hike down from the clifftop.
Dreamland Beach, about 25 minutes from Uluwatu, is excellent for sunbathing and swimming. The wide stretch of golden sand is backed by dramatic cliffs and it has several local warungs serving snacks and drinks.
Jimbaran is 30 minutes from Uluwatu and is known for its golden sand beaches and fresh seafood. Spend the day relaxing on the calm shores, then indulge in a beachfront seafood feast as the sun sets. Jimbaran Bay’s grilled prawns, fish and squid are legendary and served at tables set right on the sand.
The best day trips from Uluwatu
If you have more time, these are some of the best day trips from Uluwatu:
A 40-minute drive from Uluwatu brings you to Sanur, where you can catch a fast boat to Nusa Penida. This stunning island is perfect for a day of adventure with dramatic cliff viewpoints like Kelingking Beach, natural pools at Angel’s Billabong and pristine beaches.
An hour’s drive from Uluwatu, Seminyak is Bali’s hub for trendy boutiques, upscale dining and chic beach clubs. Spend the day exploring its stylish shops and end with dinner at a world-class restaurant or drinks at a rooftop bar.
About 1.5 hours from Uluwatu, Tanah Lot Temple is one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks. Perched on a rocky outcrop, Tanah Lot offers stunning views, particularly at sunset. It’s a fantastic spot to experience Bali’s spiritual heritage and take memorable photos.
Book a guided tour of Tanah Lot here.
Where to eat and drink in Uluwatu
Uluwatu’s cliffside dining spots combine incredible views with delicious food. Enjoy a meal while watching the sunset paint the sky.
A 7-minute drive from Uluwatu Temple is Single Fin. Famous for its lively atmosphere and panoramic views of the surf below, it’s a great spot for cocktails and casual dining.
Further inland is Suka Espresso, which doesn’t have the views, but it’s popular for its fresh, healthy dishes with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
How to get to Uluwatu
Getting to Uluwatu is relatively straightforward, as it’s located on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, about 20 kilometres south of Denpasar. Here are the best ways to reach this stunning destination:
If you’re flying to Bali, Uluwatu is approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar Airport). You can catch a taxi or pre-book a private transfer.
If you’re in Seminyak or Canggu, Uluwatu is about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car. From Ubud the journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours by car.
Staying in Jimbaran or Nusa Dua is a good idea, as these areas are close to Uluwatu, with travel times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes by car or scooter.
Frequently asked questions for a 2 day Uluwatu itinerary
How many days do you need in Uluwatu?
Two days is perfect for experiencing Uluwatu’s highlights without feeling rushed. Day 1 covers the cultural attractions like Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Dance, while Day 2 focuses on beaches and surfing. You could extend to three days if you’re a serious surfer or want a more relaxed pace with additional day trips.
What’s the best time to visit Uluwatu?
April to October offers the best weather with minimal rain and is ideal for temple visits and beach activities. This is also prime surfing season with consistent swells. The wet season (November-March) brings more rain but also fewer crowds and lush green landscapes.
Is Uluwatu good for beginner surfers?
While Uluwatu has some challenging reef breaks, there are surf schools offering beginner lessons at spots like Padang Padang. More experienced surfers will love the consistent waves at Suluban Beach and Bingin. Always check conditions and consider your skill level before entering the water.
How do you get around Uluwatu?
Rent a scooter for maximum flexibility and easy parking, or hire a private driver for day trips to multiple beaches. Most attractions are within 20 minutes of each other. Be prepared for steep paths when accessing some beaches from the clifftops.
Can you visit Uluwatu as a day trip?
Yes, it’s definitely worth coming for the day to see the magical sunset Kecak Dance experience. If you stay longer, you’ll have time to explore the lovely local beaches too.
Final thoughts on your 2 day Uluwatu itinerary
From the spiritual allure of its cliffside temple and the hypnotic Kecak Fire Dance to its world-class surfing and serene beaches, Uluwatu gives you the perfect blend of culture and coastal beauty in just 2 days.
The dramatic clifftop setting, combined with Bali’s warm hospitality and rich traditions, creates an unforgettable 48 hours. From temple ceremonies to surf breaks, every moment in Uluwatu offers something magical.
Ready for your next Bali adventure? Read about the best 2-day itinerary for Ubud.
It was lovely reading through this post. It made me miss the time I spent in Bali. It is truly a beautiful place!
Thanks! I couldn’t agree more – Bali is such a special island. Happy to meet a fellow fan!