Bukit Peninsula, Bali

Bingin Beach: Crystal clear water and mossy rocks set this beach apart.

I don’t throw the word “paradise” around easily, but that’s what this side of Bali looks like with its white sand beaches and dramatic limestone cliff features. With a motorbike and no plans, we traveled up and down Bali’s most southern coast in search of some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Sure, Seminyak and Kuta up north are fun, but no one will argue that their beaches are nicer than say, Bingin Beach or Padang-Padang Beach. For me, seeing the Bukit Peninsula of Bali reminded me just how diverse and gorgeous this island is. It’s my second favorite place after Ubud and for me is the epitome of how Indonesia keeps surprising me. Not sure where to stay? Have the best of both worlds: Stay in Seminyak or Kuta to enjoy the culinary scene and nightlife and then take day trips down to the Bukit for a change of pace and seclusion. By taxi, it’s about 30-40 minutes or by motorbike, about an hour driving to the most southern tip of Uluwatu. See map below.

Must see: The Pura Luhur Temple of Uluwatu. Watch the stunning sunset and the traditional Kecak dance every night along with the monkeys who call this temple home.