Cocktails at the ready - these sunset bars, beach clubs and oceanfront restaurants are the island's all-star venues when it comes to wining, dining and watching a postcard-perfect Bali sunset.
Ain’t nuthin’ better than a well-timed tipple, especially when you’re watching a jaw-dropping sunset that Bali is so famous for. Beach or jungle, if the view fits we say go with it, so kick back and cast your gaze upon our fave sunset bars to ruminate whilst the sun illuminates. These are the best sunset bars in Bali for a golden hour that really glows.
SUNSET BARS IN SEMINYAK
The hottest new sun-drop spot: SugarSand
When it comes to the perfect formula for a show-stopping sunset spot, SugarSand has got it down pat. This new Seminyak destination is a little bit beachy, a little bit boozy, big on the music and even bigger on the food – and more importantly, it sits in plain sight of those oozy orange sun-drops each evening. Not your typical beach club, not just a bar, and sooo much more than “just” a west-facing restaurant on the beach – SugarSand is the perfect mishmash of everything we love, with plenty of nods to local art, design and culture too.
Siting on two dazzling levels to guarantee those unobstructed ocean views, SugarSand ups the sunset ante with its collection of poolside daybeds, a toes-in-the-sand beach bar and seaside terrace serving coastal bites and cocktails. But it’s on the top floor that you’ll want to be perched for when golden hour does its thang. This open-air rooftop lounge just begs for nightly sundowners beneath candy-coloured skies, made easy thanks to Singaporean mixology maestro, Sufian Mahmoud, who’s put together tropical twists on Japanese sake and sochu, and slow-cooked G&Ts to really get your sunset juices flowing. Now that’s a Bali sunset done right.
SugarSand, Jl Camplung Tanduk No. 10, Seminyak Beach, p. +62 361 209 9999. Open daily 10am – 1am.
The beach-chic option: Alila Seminyak
With two sunset bars that spill right out onto the sand, Alila Seminyak is one of the most fabulous, front-row sunset seats on the island. Wander through the oh-so stylish minimalistic resort and across perfectly manicured lawns and it’s warm ocean air and designer vibes for as far as the eye can see. The Beach Bar is where you’ll want to be perched for that all-important glow. It’s where you can take a break from Bali’s hot tropical rays and refresh with an innovative cocktail or icy cold beer as the sun gives way to the moon. Cuddle up on a comfy low-slung sofa or a sink-into beanbag, and graze on Mediterranean mezze and tapas plates (or even a smoky barbecue by the beach!) as the candy skies unfold. All that’s left to do is let nature take care of the rest…
Alila Seminyak Beach Bar, Jl Taman Ganesha No.9, Petitenget, Seminyak, p. +62 361 302 1888, e. seminyak@alilahotels.com. Open daily, all day.
The shutter Colosseum: Potato Head Beach Club
No Bali bundle would be complete without watching the sun go down at this iconic, glamarama beach club. Step through the concrete canyon entrance and into the Colosseum-esque arena of Potato Head Beach Club and you’ll understand why this proudly Indonesian brand has become an inspiring institution in Bali. Two restaurants, sunset bars galore and an infinity pool with fab views of the sparkling Indian Ocean? It’s the Seminyak playground combo nobody can resist. The clever ones make a day of it, turning up by lunchtime to claim their pool-side real-estate (aka sun loungers) but either way, get there well before sunset to take it all in before the sun actually goes down.
Potato Head Beach Club, Jl Petitenget, Seminyak, Bali, p.+62 361 473 7979, e. phbc.reservation@pttfamily.com. Open daily, 10am – 2am.
The stylish classic: Ku De Ta
Ku De Ta is Seminyak’s original beach club and still a haven of beautiful people and groovy sunset vibes. This luxe beachfront venue (‘Ku’ to those in the know) remains one of Seminyak’s top sunset bars to see and be seen. Famous for its high season themed parties, the elegant venue houses day beds, a beachside pool and two trendy restaurants that both serve exceptional food. Soak in the buzzin’ vibes while you sip and snap the afternoon away on a day bed. Top tip for all you glamour girls – make a reservation the day before so you don’t wear out those fab strappy heels (or sandals) while waiting at the bar.
Ku De Ta, Jl Kayu Aya no.9, Seminyak, p. +62 361 736 969, e. reservations@kudeta.com. Open daily 8am – 2am.
The wow factor: WooBar
Like all legendary W Hotels worldwide, WooBar is the pinnacle of glam life in Bali, so expect world-class food, entertainment and uber-stylish surrounds for your sunset. Enjoy a sumptuous seafood feast at the beachfront restaurant, then retire to the colourful day beds for alfresco fun in the sun(set) with good company, smooth Café Del Mar tunes and a fancy tipple in hand. The décor is to die for – a mix of beach casual with retro sofa stylings and tropical palm tree vibes popping up through the decking. Bubbles lovers should take a cheeky peek at the two storey champagne cellar next to the downstairs bathrooms for another woo-wow moment in a place that’s chock full of ‘em!
WooBar, W Retreat & Spa Bali, Jl Petitenget, Seminyak, p. +62 361 3000 106. Open daily, 10am – late.
The bubbly beauty: Ocean Champagne Bar at The Legian Bali
Champagne by the ocean as the sun sets? Now that’s a golden hour done right! At The Legian Bali’s glamorous Ocean Champagne Bar, sunset time calls for the finest bubbles, gourmet bites, beachfront vistas and the sweet sounds of live jazz! Not just any old Champagne bar, this ultra-luxe spot pours only the biggest bubbly names, including Cristal, Dom Perignon, Veuve Clicquot and Billecart Salmon. It’s the perfect spot for a sundowner or pre-dinner drink, or you can make an occasion of it and sip your way through sunset with luxurious bites like caviar, house-made blinis, smoked salmon platters and of course, plenty of local Lombok Oysters.
Ocean Champagne Bar at The Legian Bali, Jl Kayu Aya, Seminyak Beach, p. +62 361 730 622 e. reservation@thelegianbali.com. Open daily from 9am – midnight.
The grand old dame: La Lucciola
Seminyak’s original – and possibly simplest – beachfront institution. Affectionately known as “La Looch”, this beachside, colonial-style restaurant is situated along one of the most scenic stretches of Seminyak. It’s a little bit of ‘old-Bali’ in the best way posibble, before high-tech and high-stylin’ took over. Here’s where you’d head for Mediterranean fare and a huge selection of wine. It’s impossible not to love this place, with its always amazing service, legendary food and excellent views. We love that it’s potentially Seminyak’s only place with no website or wi-fi – just like Bali used to be.
La Lucciola, Jl Petitenget, Seminyak, p. +62 361 730 838. Open daily, 9am -11pm
SUNSET BARS IN LEGIAN & KUTA
Legendary luxury: The Rooftop Sunset Bar at Double Six
This famous location – once the site of Bali’s first super club – has to be Bali’s biggest rooftop venue, boasting sublime views over the beach and beyond. Make your way to the edge and settle into one of the super cool VIP floating pods that give an oh-so-cool twist to your standard sunset stance. Normal chairs are just soooo last year dontchaknow. With the ideal spot for you and your crew, the rest is simple: order up your drinks, grab some snacks, soak up the tunes and enjoy. Stick around for an after dark sesh as this mahooosive space regularly hosts party nights that run ‘til late.
The Rooftop Sunset Bar at Double Six, Double Six Luxury Hotel, No. 66, Double Six Beach, Seminyak, p. +62 361 734 300, e. reservations@doublesixrooftop.com
Best for Balearic beats: Cocoon Beach Club
Cocoon yourself in a cabana with cocktails and cool mixes at this fresh looking, Mediterranean-inspired day club. Pre sunset, get suitably buzzed with two-for-one cocktails from 4pm to 7pm as you shimmy in your bikini to the local and international DJs spinning for sunset. Keep your eyes peeled for the monthly Full Moon parties here – sizzling nights for serious party-goers only, do not miss!
Cocoon Beach Club, Jl Double Six, No. 66 Blue Ocean Boulevard, Seminyak, p. +62 361 73126, e. info@cocoon-beach.com. Open daily, 10am – midnight.
Beanbag bohemia: La Plancha
Welcome to the O.G. of all sunset bars – the one with the vintage Balinese brollies and those iconic beanbags. Decked in a spectrum of bright colours, this rustic Spanish beach bar and restaurant is super laidback and unpretentious – perfect for those who like nothing better than to lay back in a comfy bean bag and watch the sunset in your sarong, sandals and bikinis. Think tapas, tipples and killer views – oh and ordering up anytime is easy as you can always spot a smiley staff member by their super cute Hawaiian shirts.
La Plancha, Jl Dhyana Pura Seminyak, p. +62 878 6141 6310. Open daily, 9am – midnight.
The bamboo beachbar: Azul Beach Club
The first Tiki bar in Bali, Azul’s sprawling bamboo tree house structure has a number of areas to eat, drink and be merry across its three floors. For sunset hangs, head out the back to grab a lounger around the sizeable infinity pool, while down on the ground floor sits the casually chic restaurant, which is open all day from 6.30am for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a Tiki-tremendous happy hour…. Cheers to that!
Azul Beach Club, Jl Padma No.2, Legian, Kuta, p. +62 361 765759, e. info@azulbali.com. Open daily, 7am – 11pm.
SUNSET BARS IN JIMBARAN
The rock star: Rock Bar
Perched 14 metres above Jimbaran Bay on a secluded cliff, AYANA Resort’s world-famous Rock Bar has to be seen to be believed. Declared one of the world’s best sunset bars by the likes of CNN and Forbes, watching the sun drop at this open-top bar with its glittering cave walls and a martini in hand (we recommend the Spa on the Rock!) is an unforgettable experience. Expect stellar international DJs to be helming the decks or bands playing unplugged sessions while you soak up the five-star ambiance. But be warned – the line up isn’t short, so get there early for your best chance of a seat before the sun goes down.
Rock Bar, Ayana Resort & Spa Bali, Jl Karang Mas Sejahtera, Jimbaran, p. +62 361 70222, e. info@ayanaresort.com. Open daily, 4pm – midnight (1am Thurs & Fri).
Al-fresco & glow: Sunset Beach Bar and Grill
We LOVE the open-air seating arrangements here at InterContinental Bali Resort’s beachfront bar – grab a spot on the beanbags for a sand between your toes sunset, or nab the open air cabanas or bar stools at the thatched-roof central bar. Sip on a shared (..or maybe not) pitcher of sangria while being surrounded by tree lanterns and fire torches. Heaven.
Sunset Beach Bar and Grill, Jl Uluwatu 45, Jimbaran, p. +62 361 701 888, e. icbali.reservation@ihg.com. Open daily, 11am – midnight.
Secluded in style: Sundara
Forget about the crowded beach clubs for a minute – this serene hotspot combines both five-star flair and chill beach vibes. Catch the sunset over drinks by the bar or laze away on the spacious double daybeds only steps away from the curve of the scenic Jimbaran beach. Try the handcrafted cocktails – the signature Sundara Red Snapper is as feisty as its name.
Sundara, Four Seasons Resort Bali, Jimbaran, p. +62 361 701 010, e. sundara.bali@fourseasons.com. Open daily, 8am – 1am.
SUNSET BARS IN CANGGU
The surfie hotspot: Old Man’s
With a healthy dose of irony in the name, this popular hangout is a hot favourite amongst Canggu’s young crew of locals and expats – laid-back, unpretentious and perfect for swigging a few beers while catching the sunset. Stay up to speed with the numerous events each night of the week, and be sure to head down there for Dirty Ol’ Wednesdays for dirty margaritas, beer pong and dirty, dirttty disco.
Old Man’s, Jl Batu Bolong Beach, Canggu, p. +62 361 8469 158. Open daily, 7am – 1am.
Surf & turf: The Lawn
Stylish cocktails, frosty cold beers and a solid wine selection matched with a backyard beanbag setup mean that this happening spot right on Canggu Beach is a firm favourite when it comes to Canggu’s ever-growing lineup list of sunset bars. With its commanding spot overlooking the waves of Batu Bolong and one of the best sunset sites in town, the grass really is greener here. Swing by on a Friday night for half-off drinks and hopping vibes.
The Lawn, Jl Pura Dalem, Canggu, p. +62 361 335 1055, e. hello@thelawncanggu.com. Open daily, 11am – 11pm.
Exotically Oriental: Ji Terrace By The Sea
Rooftop splendour at the gorgeous Tugu Hotel, Ji Terrace by the Sea is a quirky cool bar where sunsets are savoured in 180 degrees. Check out their Asian inspired cocktail infusions for a tipple perfectly befitting the amazing sunset sessions, and to keep your head nodding, a talented roster of DJs spin the best tunes from sunset ‘til late with happy hour cocktails aplenty.
Ji Terrace by the SEA, Jl Pantai Batu Bolong, Canggu Beach, p. +62 361 473 1701 / +62 81 239 652 695, e. ji@tuguhotels.com, Open daily, 5pm – late.
The crowd pleaser: Finns Beach Club
Come around sundown and things really heat up here at everyone’s favourite Berawa bamboo beach club. Any time is a good time to stop by for a tipple or three, but settling in for sundown with one of their fabulous creations is simply not to be missed. The beers (and ciders) are always cold and the view ain’t too shabby either. All you’ve got to decide is, which of the many sunset bars (both upstairs and downstairs) will you perch at?
Finn’s Beach Club, Jl Pantai Berawa, Canggu, p. +62 361 844 6327, e. info@finnsbeachclub.com. Open daily, 10am – 10pm.
The Insta haven: La Laguna
Few sunset bars are as picture perfect as La Laguna – a gypsy wonderland that overlooks a peaceful lagoon right on Berawa beach. A photographer’s dream, their famous bamboo bridge across to the beach has to be one of the most Instagrammable spots on the island as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. You’re well covered on the drinks front too; with a fab list of old favourites and house made creations.
La Laguna, Jl Pura Kayu Putih, Pantai Berawa, Canggu, p. +62 81 236 382 272. Open daily, 11am – midnight.
Beach barbecue bliss: Echo Beach House
There’s nothing like a good ol’ beach barbie – and that’s exactly what Echo Beach House has been delivering for nigh on ten years now. Perfect to recharge the tank after a session out on the board, tuck into glorious seafood, juicy meats or one of the bountiful veggie options – all washed down with a frosty beer or chilled glass of vino before watching the sunset show. Perfection.
Echo Beach House, Jl Pura Batu Mejan, Canggu, p. +62 812 3978 466. Open daily, 7am – 11pm.
SUNSETS IN THE BUKIT
Cliff club extraordinaire: El Kabron
Perched 50 meters high on the cliffs of Bingin Beach you’ll find El Kabron – a cliff top club with unmatched views out across the Indian Ocean. Dressed in Mediterranean colours and with a chic boho vibe, the restaurant is a haven of sexy sangrias, spectacular Spanish fare and sweet sunset views. The ice blue infinity pool and deck chairs are the final magic touches for a sunset worth celebrating. Salud!
El Kabron, Jl Pantai Cemongkak, Pecatu, Kuta Sel, p. +62 851 0080 3416, e. info@elkabron.com. Open daily, 11.30am – 11.45pm.
The jet-set choice: OMNIA Dayclub Bali
A new breed of island decadence that’s shining an international light on Bali’s luxury lifestyle scene, OMNIA Bali is the place to see and be seen. And with OMNIA’s signature five-star service, umbrella-punctuated sunbeds, a glittering infinity pool that curves to meet endless ocean views, OMNIA Bali is also where you’ll find a million-dollar perch to catch golden hour at its best – with world-class tunes to see you through.
OMNIA Dayclub Bali, Jl Belimbing Sari, Banjar Tambiyak Desa, Uluwatu, p. +62 361 8482 150, e. reservationsbali@sakenohana.com. Open daily 11am – 7pm.
The party spot: Single Fin
A fave hangout for surfers, locals and tourists alike, this multi-level bar and live music venue has been a big hit ever since it opened. Enjoy a post surf sunset beer or two while munching on pizzas or poke, then hang around ‘til the bands show up and get those dancing shoes on. Weekend warriors should swing by for the Sunday sunset sessions – where live acoustic bands and a string of top notch DJs always bring the house down.
Single Fin, Pantai Suluban, Jl Labuan Sait, Pecatu, Uluwatu, p. +62 361 769 941, e. hello@singlefinbali.com. Open daily, 8am – 10pm (1am on Sun).
The chic kid on the Bukit block: Suarga Padang Padang
This super chic Bukit resort has without doubt one of the best views of stunning Padang Padang Beach and its bluewater lagoon from its Dugong Lounge & Bar. Pull up a pew after 5pm and enjoy a spectacular show while sipping on something delish. A concise but perfectly formed cocktail list features all the faves, and the varied wine list is also well worth a look.
Dugong Lounge & Bar, Jl Pantai Labuan Sait, Br. Dinas Labuan Sait Pecatu, p. +62 361 472 5088, e. dugong@suarga.com, Open daily, 7.30am – 11pm.
The pool-front perch: Ulu Cliffhouse
With the energy of the rolling waves below and raw natural beauty all around, it’s all too easy to while away a lazy Bali day right here. Dive into a morning cleanser or down some daytime tipples, and when golden hour comes around, sink a few shaken sundowners amidst sunset vistas – poolside. Ulu Cliffhouse is a stunning 4640 square-metre clifftop oasis, with sunbeds and shade, and Bali’s most spectacular views from day to night. Head down from 4pm and check out the daily all-star DJ lineup – a rotating cache of local and international dudes who know just how to serenade that sunset.
Ulu Cliffhouse, Jl Labuan Sait No. 315, Padang-Padang, p. (+62) 81 338 812 502, e. info@ulucliffhouse.com
SUNSET BARS ON NUSA LEMBONGAN
Volcano vistas: The Deck
Situated along the boardwalk waterfront of Nusa Lembongan, The Deck is a café-cum-deli-cum-cocktail spot that serves up delish, easy comfort food. Think paninis, pizzas, pies and pastries – all to be enjoyed with spectacular views of the beach and commanding Mount Agung. Swig icy cold frothy beers on tap or enjoy daily cocktail specials while watching the sun go down over the peaceful lagoon. Simply stunning!
The Deck, Jungut Batu, Nusa Lembongan, p. +62 366 559 6376, e. info@batukaranglembongan.com. Open daily, 7.30am – 11pm.
The beachfront treasure: Sandy Bay Beach Club
Rustic beach-chic with relaxed vibes, Sandy Bay Beach Club has become the must-visit sundowner vantage point on Lembongan – perfect for letting your hair down, or even getting it wet (the cute pool is well worth a dip!) Unwind and gorge on sensational beachy fare (fresh fish, burgers and Indonesian treats galore) with a wicked wine list and happy hour cocktails to match.
Sandy Bay Beach Club, Sandy Bay, Lembongan Island, Bali, p. +62 828 9700 5656, e. beachclub@sandybaylembongan.com. Open daily, 8am – 10pm.
SUNSET BARS IN UBUD
A luxe jungle home: The Sayan House
The Japanese-Latino fusion vibes at this famed Ubud eatery also extend into their super cool drinks list, with its fabulous selection of sakes and South-American inspired cocktails. Perched on the edge of Sayan gorge, the rustic al fresco terrace and cute garden area boast jaw-dropping jungly views that go just right with a long drink.
The Sayan House, Jl Raya Sayan No.70 Ubud, p. +62 361 479 25 92 / +62 822 4737 0344, e. info@thesayanhouse.com. Open daily, midday – 10pm.
An Ubud secret: Copper Kitchen & Bar
Much like the cutting edge Indonesian cuisine served in the main restaurant, expert mixologists at Copper Kitchen & Bar shake up a variety of original creations based on what’s hot right now. Beautifully styled with rustic materials, the upstairs bar is one of Ubud’s best perches to round off a hard day in the hills.
Copper Kitchen & Bar, Jl Bisma, Ubud, p. +62 361 479 2888, e. reservations@bisma-eight.com. Open daily, 7am – 11pm.
SUNSET COAST SUNSET BARS
Resort chic: Soori Bali
Come for the cocktails, stay for the chilled ambiance and remote west coast ambiance. Facing the black sand beaches and crashing waves of Tabanan, Soori is well worth a trip off the beaten path to this hidden gem. The chic bar area features a compact wooden terrace with limited tables for a truly exclusive experience.
Soori Bali, Banjar Dukuh, Desa Kelating, Kerambitan, Tabanan, p. +62 361 894 6388, e. reservations@sooribali.com. Open daily.
A jungle gem: The Menjangan
Waaaaay up in the hinterlands of North-West Bali, you’ll find the stunning Menjangan resort with its breathtaking tower restaurant and sunset bars. With 360-degree views across the treeline, there are few places that top this as a blissed out retreat sunset spot for a drink or two.
The Menjangan, Jl Raya Gilimanuk, Singaraja, p. +62 362 94700, e. bliss@themenjangan.com. Open daily.
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