Best Bali Beaches for Families With Kids for Safety & Fun
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Best Bali Beaches for Kids and Families
If you're planning a family vacation, Bali should definitely be on your list. Known for its stunning beaches, Bali is a paradise for families with kids looking for a great beach experience. However, with so many beaches to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which beach to visit for the day or pick as the one you will stay close to.
In this article, we'll be discussing the best Bali beaches for families, taking into consideration factors such as safety, amenities, and activities suitable for families with younger kids.
We have numbered this list so each beach matches our map; they are not in any particular order of preference.
Which is the most popular family-friendly beach in Bali?
It’s hard to say because there are no statistics that are that specific. However, we can share with you that of all the family beaches in Bali on this list, the one that is the most popular beach in Bali overall is Melasti Beach (see our review below). We know this because we developed a statistical ranking for all Bali beaches that looks at the number of reviews and overall rating for each Bali beach. And Melasti Beach is the highest-ranking beach on this ‘best Bali beaches for families’ list.
Did you know? ‘Pantai’ in Bahasa Indonesia means ‘beach’. So, now if you get lost, you can ask ‘Halo, di mana pantai Jimbaran?’ (Hallo, where is Jimbaran Beach?).
The 12 Best Bali Beaches for Families
1. Pantai Jimbaran Bay Beach, South Bali
Pantai Jimbaran Beach. Image: Citycams | Click to watch their video
Address: Jimbaran, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Jimbaran Beach is located on Bali's west coast, close to the airport (but enough away), so if you plan to stay here and have young kids, you’ll arrive here without a long drive. Jimbaran Beach is known for its beautiful sunsets and seafood restaurants. The beach is great for families with older children, as there are plenty of water activities available, including surfing and parasailing. In addition, there are also plenty of shops and restaurants (not just the beachfront seafood cafes) in the area. The water is generally clam and shallow so it is also suitable for younger children with supervision. And for an eye opener for the kids, take them to the Jimbaran fish markets!
2. Pantai Legian Beach, South Bali
Pantai Legian Beach. Image: Bali Beaches | Click to watch their video
Address: Jalan Pantai Legian, Legian, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Legian Beach is located just north of Kuta Beach and offers a slightly quieter and more laid-back atmosphere, which is why we tend to recommend it over Kuta Beach for families. The beach is perfect for families with older children who want to try surfing. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants in the area, making it a great place to spend the day and pick up a cheap lunch, drinks and ice creams. You could also check out Seminyak Beach too.
3. Pantai Echo Beach, South Bali
Pantai Echo Beach. Image: Gypsy in Sneakers | Click to watch their video
Address: Canggu, Kuta Utara, Bandung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Echo Beach is located on Bali's west coast and is known for its strong surf breaks and stunning sunsets. So, we’re not actually recommending it as a daytime beach to take the kids to – we’ve put Echo Beach on this for date night! Arrange a babysitter and head to Echo Beach to enjoy the amazing nightlife that this surf-culture hotspot is known for. Echo Beach has great sunsets, lively bars and great dining so it makes for a fun place for couples to come and let their hair down a bit without the kids.
4. Pantai Sanur Beach, South Bali
Pantai Sanur Beach. Image: NowGetThere Travel | Click to watch their video
Address: Jalan Cemara, Sanur, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Sanur Beach is located on Bali's east coast (so the sunrise is beautiful) and is known for its calm waters and beautiful white sand. The beach is great for families with young children as the water is shallow and the beach is relatively quiet. There is a 4km boardwalk here, making a stroller walk with kiddies easy. Like Tanjung Benoa Beach, there are also plenty of water activities available, including snorkelling and paddleboarding. But we think Sanur is a better bet than Tanjung Benoa because there are more restaurants, shops and off-beach activities and it is closer to Ubud for day trips. Look out for kites too – the kids can learn to fly them here, especially June-August when its more windy.
Want more? Read our full review of Sanur Beach
5. Pantai Tanjung Benoa Beach, South Bali
Pantai Tanjung Benoa Beach. Image: Bali Beaches | Click to watch their video
Address: Jl. Segara Kidul No.3x, Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Tanjung Benoa Beach is located north of the Nusa Dua area of Bali and this coastline is known for its calm waters and sandy shores. The beach is perfect for families with young children who want to swim and play in the water, as the currents are gentle and the beach is protected by a coral reef. There are also plenty of water sports and activities available, such as banana boat rides, parasailing, and jet skiing, which are sure to provide hours of fun for the whole family. Additionally, there is a reasonable selection of restaurants and cafes in the area (but less than Sanur Beach, for example), making it easy to grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink after a day at the beach. With its safe waters and range of activities, Tanjung Benoa Beach is a great option for families with young children visiting Bali. The accommodation at Tanjung Benoa is generally less expensive than Nusa Dua, which can be good news for families on a budget.
6. Pantai Nusa Dua Beach, South Bali
Pantai Nusa Dua Beach. Image: Travel Scout | Click to watch their video
Address: Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Nusa Dua Beach is located on Bali's southern peninsula and is a popular destination for families. The beaches here (there are several in this resort precinct and its environs) is known for its clear blue water and beautiful white sand. There are plenty of activities available, including snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing. In addition, there are also plenty of restaurants and shops in the area, making it a great place to spend the day. Just be aware that some beaches, like Sawangan Beach (in the southern part of Nusa Dua, where the Hilton Hotel is) are not good swimming beaches because of the steep drop-off so we’d tend to suggest families choose the more northern of the Nusa Dua Beaches, down to and including Geger Beach. There are many family-friendly resorts in Nusa Dua, many with lagoon pools and kids’ clubs.
Want more? Read our full review of Nusa Dua Beach
7. Pantai Geger Beach, South Bali
Pantai Geger Beach. Image: Sharing Some Sights | Click to watch their video
Address: 56MG+RFQ, Benoa, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Geger Beach is still in the Nusa Dua area of Bali and is known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is perfect for families with young children, as the waters are usually fairly calm and shallow, particularly at low tide, making it safe for swimming and playing in the water. Families can also enjoy a range of activities such as sunbathing, building sandcastles, and taking a stroll along the beach. The beach also has several restaurants and cafes nearby that offer a range of food and drink options. There are some fancy resorts along this stretch of beach, so the beach itself is well maintained.
8. Pantai Pandawa Beach, South Bali
Pantai Pandawa Beach. Image: Bali Beaches | Click to watch their video
Address: 553P+R5G, Jl. Pantai Pandawa, Kutuh, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Pandawa Beach is a beautiful white sand beach located in the south of Bali. The beach is suitable for families with young children, as the waters are calm and safe for swimming. Families can enjoy a range of activities such as sunbathing, making sand sculptures and long beach walks. The beach also offers various water sports such as canoeing, which are sure to provide a thrilling experience for older children and adults. Additionally, the beach has several restaurants and cafes that serve a range of local and international cuisines. With its calm waters, range of activities, and amenities, Pandawa Beach is an excellent option for families looking for a fun-filled day trip at the beach in Bali.
9. Pantai Melasti Beach, South Bali (the most popular Bali beach on this list)
Pantai Melasti Beach. Image: Maksim Golitsyn | Click to watch their video
Address: Jl. Melasti Ungasan, Ungasan, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Melasti Beach is another popular day trip destination located in the Ungasan area of Bali (note that there are several beaches called Melasti; this is the Ungasan one). The beach is known for its stunning views of the Indian Ocean, crystal-clear waters, and soft white sand. Families can enjoy a range of activities, such as swimming and sunbathing. The beach also offers a variety of water sports, such as paddleboarding, for those looking for a more adventurous experience. Additionally, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area serving local cuisine and refreshments, perfect for a quick snack or lunch break.
Want more? Read our full review of Melasti Beach
10. Pantai Karma Beach, South Bali
Pantai Karma Beach. Image: Alfred and Chens | Click to watch their video
Address: Karma Kandara Bali, Jalan Villa Kandara, Selatan Ungasan, Kuta Selatan, Ungasan, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80362, Indonesia
This is a private beach club and whilst we don’t normally include commercial businesses on Baligram, we include this because it is a popular choice for families. It is accessed through the villas of the same name, via a funicular (lift down the cliff face) which is sure to excite the kids. Karma Beach itself is a secluded cove and its lift access means it is very safe and private. The beach offers calm and clear waters, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling with children and there is beach volleyball as well. Additionally, there are plenty of amenities available including sun loungers, beach umbrellas, and a beach club with food and drink options. Families can also enjoy a range of water sports and activities, such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.
11. Pantai Padang Padang Beach, South Bali
Pantai Padang Padang Beach. Image: Bali Cheapest Tours | Click to watch their video
Address: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Padang Padang Beach is located on Bali's west coast and is known for its clear blue water and beautiful white sand. It’s also where Julia Roberts found the love in the Eat, Pray, Love movie, so that’s a good sign. The beach is great for families with older children who are already capable surfers - the waves can be quite strong. But it is also suitable for families with young children too because the surf spot is off the shore whereas the onshore waves are calm. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes in the beach area, making it a great place to spend the day. Sunrise is awesome, if you can get the kids out of bed!
12. Pantai Lovina Beach, North Bali
Pantai Lovina Beach. Image: DeathbyVlog | Click to watch their video
Address: R2PC+JMG, Jl. Raya Singaraja, Temukus, Kecamatan Buleleng, Kaliasem, Kec. Banjar, Kabupaten Buleleng, Bali 80117, Indonesia
This suggestion is for families who are open to travelling a bit to get away from the crowds. Lovina Beach is located on Bali's northern coast and is known for its calm waters. The beach is an excellent spot for families with children who want to swim and relax in a more serene and quiet environment. Visitors can also enjoy a range of water activities such as snorkeling and diving, as well as dolphin watching tours (something the kids will never forget!). There are several restaurants and cafes in the area offering local cuisine, making it easy to grab a bite to eat after a day at the beach. With its peaceful atmosphere and range of activities, Lovina Beach is an excellent option for families looking for a more tranquil beach experience in Bali.
The best Bali beaches for children
In conclusion, Bali is a fantastic destination for families looking for a beach vacation. With a wide range of beaches to choose from, there's something for everyone. From the gentle waves of Kuta Beach to the strong surf breaks of Echo Beach, Bali has it all. When choosing a beach, consider factors such as safety, amenities, and activities to ensure a fun-filled and memorable vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Bali for a family vacation?
The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, which runs from April to September. Read the following article for more information on When is the Best Time to Visit Bali?
Are there any family-friendly resorts near the beaches in Bali?
Yes, there are plenty of family-friendly resorts near many of Bali’s beaches. For family friendly beaches that have lots of accommodation choices, check out Jimbaran Beach, Sanur Beach, Nusa Dua Beach and Tanjung Benoa Beach in particular, as these all have accommodations right on the beach or within a short walk.
Are there any beaches in Bali that are not suitable for families with children?
Yes, some of the beaches in Bali are known for their strong currents and are not suitable for swimming. Our list The Best Bali Beaches | The 2023 List of 45+ Bali’s Best Beaches includes some of these beaches, so that’s why we developed this article to help families find safe and fun Bali beaches. Always check local conditions with locals or your accommodation staff before entering the water.
Are there any cultural attractions near the beaches in Bali, Indonesia?
Yes, there are plenty of cultural attractions near the beaches in Bali, including temples, museums, and art galleries. There are even waterfalls within a relatively short drive from Bali's beaches. Check out our Best Bali Waterfalls guide, Best Bali Rice Fields guide and our Best Bali Temples guide for Bali day trips.
What is the best way to get around Bali with a family?
The best way to get around Bali with a family is by hiring a driver or renting a car. This will give you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Always have travel insurance when using Bali’s roads.
Which part of Bali is best for families?
There are several parts of Bali that are great for families. For a beach holiday, the southern part of Bali, including areas like Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak, offer a great selection of family-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities, such as surfing, snorkeling, and beachfront playgrounds.
If you prefer a quieter area with more cultural experiences, Ubud in central Bali is a great choice, with its beautiful rice terraces, temples, and traditional markets. For those looking for adventure, East Bali offers activities such as white water rafting, trekking, and cycling, while the northwest coast of Bali has great opportunities for dolphin watching (at Lovina Beach, for example) and snorkeling.
Which should I choose between Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu or Ubud?
Uluwatu and Canggu are more suitable for surfers (but families can still find fun there). For families, Kuta and Seminyak are safe choices. Ubud is a great way to balance beach fun with a bit of culture, so a few nights in both the beach and hills would be fun for a family.
Can I have a luxury holiday with sunset, surf and surfing and still have a fun itinerary with the kids?
Sure! You can find luxury resorts at most of the family-friendly beaches, and many of these have reef surfing and still have safe swimming close to the shore. Nusa Dua is one example.
What is better in June for families: Bali, Thailand or elsewhere in Asia?
They are both great choices because they offer superb beaches, fascinating cultures, and resorts that cater to the needs of children and parents. Bali offers incredible variety, and being a smaller island, it is easier for families to visit several beaches, volcanoes, and waterfalls in one holiday.
