Melasti Beach, or Pantai Melasti as the locals know it, is a stunning white sand beach located in Ungasan, Bali, near Uluwatu. For a long time, the road out to Melasti Beach was terrible, but a recent local construction project has remedied that, making it now home to several beach resorts. It’s pretty easy to get to from anywhere in Bali, making it an accessible paradise for travelers.
This picturesque location has become increasingly popular among tourists and locals alike, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the island. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the sea, a unique photoshoot location, or simply want to soak in the breathtaking views, Melasti Beach has something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know about Melasti Beach in 2024.
Melasti Beach, as its name suggests, means ‘purification.’ This beautiful beach is a significant site for the Balinese, as it is where the Melasti Ceremony is conducted. This deep-rooted connection to purification rituals adds a layer of cultural significance to Melasti Beach, making it more than just a stunning destination.
Melasti Beach is also one of our favorites because we can say it’s one of the more modern beaches in Bali. You don’t need to hike up long stairs; in fact, there are no stairs at all. You can park your bike or car just right at the beach. The beach club is conveniently located right beside the sand, allowing for easy access to food and drinks. Additionally, there are stunning cliffside views to enjoy, and you can find local warungs nearby to savor delicious beer or coconut cuisine.
Due to its modern amenities, Melasti Beach can also get quite crowded, especially during the holiday season. It is one of the main destinations for local tourists and a popular choice for student study tours from Java. If you prefer secluded, hidden beaches, then Melasti Beach may not be the best option for you.
Location and How to Get There
Melasti Beach is located in the Ungasan area on the southern coast of Bali, Indonesia, and is one of the beaches you can visit in the famous Uluwatu region. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport and is situated along the Bukit Peninsula, an area known for its dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches. The beach is easily accessible by road, and the newly developed infrastructure makes it convenient for visitors to reach this stunning destination.
To reach the beach:
- By scooter or car: Follow Google Maps to “Melasti Beach Ungasan”.The road down to the beach is steep but paved.
- By taxi/ride-hailing: Expect to pay around 150,000-200,000 IDR one-way from Uluwatu area.
- There is parking available at the top of the cliff for a small fee.
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning (before 9am) for a peaceful atmosphere and great photos
- Late afternoon for stunning sunset views
- Avoid midday when it gets very hot and crowded
The dry season (April to October) offers the best weather conditions.
What to Do at Melasti Beach
- Relax on the white sand and swim in the crystal clear waters
- Take Instagram-worthy photos with the dramatic cliff backdrops
- Watch the sunset from the beach or clifftop viewpoints
- Visit one of the beach clubs for food, drinks and lounging
- You also can watch Kecak Dance in Melasti Beach now as in 2024. The ticket price to watch kecak dance in Melasti is Rp150,000 per person.
- Try water activities like surfing or paddleboarding (equipment rentals available)
Beach Clubs at Melasti Beach
Several excellent beach clubs have opened at Melasti Beach in recent years:
- Tropical Temptation Beach Club: Features infinity pools, daybeds, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
- White Rock Beach Club: Newest and largest club with stunning ocean views and elevated position.
- Palmilla Beach Club: Offers gazebos and a large pool right on the beachfront.
Most clubs require a minimum spend for daybeds/cabanas, typically starting around 1 million IDR for two people.
Accommodation Options
The area around Melasti Beach is less developed compared to Seminyak, Canggu, or even the main Uluwatu area. However, we believe this is one of the key attractions if you’re looking to stay near Melasti Beach or are considering to buy villa in the Melasti area. The location is peaceful, with minimal traffic, offering a tranquil escape.
Just a 5-minute drive from Melasti Beach, Moana Poe Villa offers luxury accommodation with three beautifully appointed bedrooms, available for daily rent. Managed by the Bali Exception team, it’s the perfect retreat for those seeking serenity and convenience.
But if you’re looking for hotel accommodations, there are several options in the nearby Ungasan area, just a 10-minute drive from Melasti Beach. Some notable hotels in this area include:
- Best Western Hotel
- The Ungasan
- MaxOne Hotel
Tips for Visiting
- Bring sunscreen, hat and plenty of water as there’s limited shade
- Wear comfortable shoes for the walk down to the beach
- Be prepared to pay for parking and beach entrance (small fee)
- Book beach clubs in advance during peak season
- Exercise caution when swimming as waves can be strong
Photography Spots
Melasti Beach is a popular location for photoshoots, including pre-wedding photos. But there is entrance fee for conducting a photoshoot at Melasti Beach is 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), which is approximately $36 USD. Top spots include:
- The winding road down to the beach with cliff views
- Natural rock pools on the beach
- Clifftop viewpoints overlooking the ocean
- Beach club infinity pools
Nearby Attractions
While in the area, consider visiting:
- Uluwatu Temple (20 minutes drive)
- Nyang Nyang Beach (15 minutes drive)
- Green Bowl Beach (10 minutes drive)
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park (30 minutes drive)
Melasti Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for any Bali trip in 2024. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or the perfect Instagram shot, this stunning beach has something for everyone.
FAQ
Go there in the morning from 6am to 7am to enjoy the sunrise and sunbathing.
Yes, Melasti Beach hosts several local cultural events, the most notable being the Melasti Ceremony, which is an important Hindu purification ritual. This ceremony typically takes place before the Balinese New Year (Nyepi) and involves locals gathering at the beach to cleanse sacred objects and purify themselves in the ocean. Also Melasti Beach offers the chance to watch the iconic Kecak Dance, a traditional Balinese performance featuring a dramatic retelling of the Ramayana story. Similar to the famous Uluwatu Kecak Dance, this performance takes place against the stunning backdrop of the ocean, making it a mesmerizing cultural experience.
During the dry season, Melasti Beach can get quite crowded, especially with local tourists. It is a popular destination for group tours, including school trips and visitors from nearby islands like Java, who often arrive by bus
