Planning a Bali holiday or honeymoon and torn between Jimbaran and Nusa Dua? Both destinations offer their own unique attractions and experiences. Read on to discover the highlights of each location and make an informed decision for your trip.
Whether you want to take a romantic stroll along the shore, relax on a beach lounger, or have a romantic picnic by the water, Nusa Dua and Jimbaran offer it all. Despite their close proximity to the international airport (just 10 kilometres for Jimbaran and 15 kilometres for Nusa Dua), they provide a serene and relaxing holiday experience that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Nusa Dua and Jimbaran both also offer easy access to the renowned surfing destination of Uluwatu and for exploring the stunning Bukit Peninsula and its incredible beaches.
Where are Nusa Dua & Jimbaran?
Jimbaran and Nusa Dua are two beautiful destinations located in the southern part of Bali, specifically on the Bukit Peninsula. This region is renowned for its picturesque white beaches, excellent surfing opportunities, and breathtaking cliffs, particularly as you venture towards Uluwatu.
Whether you’re looking for a serene and luxurious vacation or a romantic honeymoon, Jimbaran and Nusa Dua offer the perfect setting for a fun-filled Bali escape. Southern Bali in general has gained popularity among tourists not only for its beautiful beaches but also for its diverse range of attractions. Visitors can explore ancient Hindu temples, enjoy thrilling water sports, indulge in shopping and dining experiences, play golf on scenic courses, and relax at beach clubs.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a mesmerising sunset together, as the beaches on this part of the island are famous for their picturesque evening views.
Should I stay in Jimbaran or Nusa Dua?
If you’re trying to decide between staying in Nusa Dua or Jimbaran, you’re in luck because both locations offer their own unique attractions and you can relatively easily move between the two (via motorbike, taxi or a driver). Ultimately, your decision may come down to personal preference and which hotel, villa or resort catches your eye.
When it comes to location and accessibility, both Jimbaran and Nusa Dua have their advantages. Jimbaran is located closer to the airport, making it a convenient choice for travellers who want to minimise travel time. It is also situated on the southwestern coast of Bali, so is known for its absolutely stunning sunset views.
On the other hand, Nusa Dua is located on the southeastern coast and is known for its gated resorts and pristine beaches. While it may be a bit farther from the airport, Nusa Dua offers a more secluded, high-end and tranquil atmosphere.
Let’s take a closer look at what each location has to offer.
Jimbaran:
Jimbaran is a wonderful destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The beach in Jimbaran is easily accessible and offers a beautiful stretch of white sand. The calm and gentle sea makes it an ideal spot for swimming and water activities like standup paddleboarding and kayaking. In the evenings, the beach transforms into a lively scene with seafood restaurants setting up tables, locals and tourists enjoying leisurely walks, and vendors selling a variety of delicious snacks and colorful toys. With its luxury hotels and picturesque setting, Jimbaran is the perfect place for a romantic stay with your loved one.
Nusa Dua:
If you’re seeking a luxurious resort experience in Bali, Nusa Dua is the perfect area to stay. It is particularly popular for honeymooners. Located just a short 25-minute drive from the airport Nusa Dua is known for its exclusive gated community that houses some of the finest resorts in Bali. These resorts offer pristine private beaches and top-notch services, ensuring a truly unforgettable stay.
Local attractions
There are plenty of resorts to choose from. Some resorts offer such a comprehensive menu of activities you might not want to leave. Even so, there are a few must-see sights to explore in Nusa Dua, such as Pantai Geger (Geger Beach). Pantai Geger is a public beach on the western side of Nusa Dua that is safe for swimming and the beach side warungs offer a local experience, with restaurants, lounge chairs and massages.
A great place to visit is the Water Blow located in Nusa Dua. It is a rock formation where waves crash onto the rock wall, creating an amazing display by the Indian Ocean. You can easily access this lookout area via paved footpaths on the southern half of the ‘twin islands’. From here, you can enjoy a stunning 240-degree seascape. The irregular splashes and sprays add to the excitement, making it even more fun. However, you will need to be careful when approaching the Water Blow site as the large surges can be dangerous. There are no lifeguards around, so proceed at your own risk.
A boat trip to Serangan Island (Turtle Island) will give couples a chance to swim and snorkel with fish and turtles. The Serangan Turtle Conservation and Education Centre is a turtle conservation area manned by locals who look after turtle eggs in traditional conservation houses until they hatch. The baby turtles are then released into the ocean.
Uluwatu is known for its stunning rock formations, famous surf break, and breathtaking cliffside temple and is well worth visiting while in the Bukit. While it is a haven for surfers, there are plenty of attractions for non-surfers as well. One of the highlights of Uluwatu is the ancient Pura Uluwatu Temple, built in the 11th century. This temple, dedicated to the sea spirits, is a remarkable architectural masterpiece carved out of black coral rock and perched high on the cliffside, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
Explore the stunning beaches of Nusa Dua & Jimbaran.
Nusa Dua and Jimbaran are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Bali. With their crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and breathtaking views, these beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.
Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll along the shore, soak up the sun on a beach lounger, or enjoy a romantic picnic by the water, Nusa Dua and Jimbaran have it all. Don’t forget to catch a stunning sunset together, as these beaches are known for their picturesque evening views.
Related: Check out our 12 Day Bali Honeymoon Itinerary to experience the best of ‘The Island of the Gods’.
Indulge in a romantic candlelit dinner by the beach
One of the most romantic experiences you can have in Nusa Dua and Jimbaran is enjoying a candlelit dinner by the beach. Many resorts and restaurants in the area offer this intimate dining experience, where you can dine under the stars with the sound of the waves crashing in the background. Imagine sitting at a beautifully decorated table, with soft candlelight illuminating your faces as you savour delicious cuisine. It’s the perfect setting to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a romantic evening together. Make sure to book in advance to secure a table at your preferred location and create a truly memorable experience.
An absolute must-do is dining at the famous Jimbaran seafood restaurants where you’ll get to enjoy a delicious meal while watching the breathtaking sunset over the ocean. Unlike the upscale restaurants found in Kuta or Ubud, the dining experience in Jimbaran is unique. Instead of sitting in a traditional restaurant setting, you will have the chance to dine on tables set directly on the sandy beach, surrounded by the open air and the sound of the waves. The cuisine is simple yet authentic, with a focus on fresh seafood marinated and grilled over coconut husks, following the culinary traditions of the island.
This romantic setting, with the soft glow of candles and moonlight, along with the gentle breeze and the sight of penjor (traditional Balinese decorations) waving in the wind, creates a truly magical atmosphere. Couples from all over the world flock to Jimbaran Beach to enjoy this unforgettable dining experience.
Experience luxury accommodations and amenities
When it comes to planning a romantic getaway, the accommodations play a crucial role in creating a memorable experience. Luckily, Nusa Dua and Jimbaran offer a wide range of luxury resorts and hotels that cater to couples. From private villas with stunning ocean views to luxurious suites with private pools, you’ll find the perfect accommodation to suit your preferences.
For those looking for a quiet getaway, The Balé is a boutique adults-only hideaway with 29 luxurious pavilions. It’s the kind of place you’d choose for some luxurious down time and is the perfect spot for a romantic holiday.
Pavilions are furnished with chic interiors and have daybeds and private swimming pools. To top it all off, they are attended by butlers who are available 24 hours a day.
The Spa offers a menu of seminars, workshops and has a roll call of holistic practitioners and wellness experts. Facilities include a swimming pool, library and beach club.
Kayumanis Nusa Dua Private Villa & Spa is a luxurious retreat that offers serenity and privacy for couples seeking a peaceful getaway. With a minimum age requirement of 16 years old, this resort ensures a tranquil atmosphere for its guests.
The pavilions provide exceptional comfort and privacy, surrounded by walled gardens. The service at Kayumanis is truly outstanding, with staff who are attentive and always ready to assist. The dining options are superb, with a restaurant serving delicious Italian cuisine and a poolside diner offering a variety of seafood dishes. Guests can also enjoy a sunrise breakfast on the beach, adding to the overall experience.
The resort is conveniently located just a five-minute drive from Nusa Dua Beach, where guests can relax on the private beach with beach umbrellas and sun loungers. The outdoor pool provides a refreshing escape, and the spa offers a range of indulgent treatments such as massages and manicures. The villas are well-appointed, with premium bedding and rainfall showerheads, ensuring a comfortable stay. We absolutely love staying at Kayumanis Nusa Dua and highly recommended it for its exceptional service, beautiful surroundings, and top-notch amenities.
Conrad Bali is a stunning 5-star hotel located on the beautiful Nusa Dua coastline in Bali. Surrounded by lush gardens and sparkling pools, it offers a romantic and breathtaking venue for a Bali honeymoon. The hotel features luxurious guest rooms and suites, world-class dining options, and a luxurious spa facility.
Whether you choose to relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or enjoy a romantic dinner, Conrad Bali guarantees to provide a truly unforgettable experience.
Additionally, the hotel offers a beachfront wedding chapel called ‘Infinity’ for couples looking to tie the knot in a picturesque setting.
Kayumanis Jimbaran is a luxurious private estate nestled among the serene coconut groves near Jimbaran beach. With 20 spacious pool villas, including both one-bedroom and two-bedroom options, guests can enjoy an intimate and private experience. The villas are designed with careful thought, featuring a separate pavilion for the living room that overlooks a private 15-meter swimming poo, a romantic canopy bed, and an oversized and luxurious outdoor bathroom.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the surrounding area. Guests can arrange a traditional jukung fishing trip, embark on a cycling adventure with their personal butler through the charming fishing village, or hire a driver to visit Uluwatu, where they can witness surfers riding the waves from the cliff top, explore the temple, or take a swim at Finn’s Beach Club, just a short drive away from Kayumanis.
Each of these resorts also offer a range of amenities such as spa treatments, couples’ massages, and private dining options, ensuring that you have everything you need for a truly indulgent and romantic stay. They are our top picks for a truly romantic getaway in Nusa Dua or Jimbaran.
Enjoy water sports and adventurous activities together
Nusa Dua and Jimbaran are not just about relaxation and romance, they also offer a range of exciting water sports and adventurous activities for couples to enjoy together. Whether you’re adrenaline junkies or just looking to try something new, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Take a thrilling jet ski ride along the crystal-clear waters, go parasailing and get a bird’s eye view of the stunning coastline, or try your hand at surfing and catch some waves together.
If you prefer to explore underwater, go snorkelling or diving and discover the vibrant marine life that surrounds these beautiful islands. No matter what activity you choose, you’re guaranteed to create unforgettable memories and strengthen your bond as a couple.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Be sure to make time explore cultural and historical attractions in both Jimbaran and Nusa Dua. In Jimbaran, the Pura Ulun Siwi temple is a must-visit destination, known for its ancient architecture and peaceful ambiance. The Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is another popular attraction in Jimbaran, featuring a gigantic statue of the Hindu god Vishnu and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
In Nusa Dua, the Museum Pasifika showcases a diverse collection of art from different countries in the Asia-Pacific region, offering an excellent opportunity to learn about various cultures and artistic traditions. For those interested in traditional Balinese dance performances and cultural shows, the Bali Nusa Dua Theatre is a must-see.
Whether you want to explore ancient temples or learn about the region’s art and culture, Jimbaran and Nusa Dua have something for everyone.
Getting there
Nusa Dua is about a 30-minute drive to Kuta, Bali’s main beach area and 15 minutes from Jimbaran. The international airport is around 20-30 minutes by road, depending on traffic. Most hotels can arrange transfers.
Find your perfect Bali holiday or honeymoon in our Bali Hotel & Resort Directory, where you’ll discover accommodation hand-picked by H4C.
Be sure to read our complete travel guide to Bali here.
