24 Things to do in Bali Nusa Dua: Exciting Beach Clubs, Unique Restaurants, Watersports and Hidden Beaches

Written by Shannon

Nusa Dua is often considered as the luxurious side of Bali, with high-end resorts, beautiful beaches, and next-level dining.

But did you know that there’s actually so much more to do there around this incredible family-friendly beach town? From cute cafes, culturally enriching museums, exciting water activities, beaches beyond the gates of your hotel and an underwater restaurant, the opportunities are endless!

If you’re travelling with little ones or here on honeymoon and aren’t keen on spending all your time with swarms of other tourists, or on the roads driving from A to B, this quieter side of Bali could be exactly what you need.

From the airport, travel along the new toll road directly to Nusa Dua — a much faster route. The luxury resort enclave boasts huge roads, so traffic is not as bad as compared to Seminyak or Ubud.

Whether you’re looking for affordable eats or luxurious resorts to escape the crowds, Nusa Dua is not an area to be overlooked on your trip to Bali!

Read more:

11 Affordable restaurants in Nusa Dua (Bali) outside resorts with good food just a short walk/drive away

15 Hidden beaches in Bali where you can find pristine shores and secret caves

Where to stay in Nusa Dua: 13 Hotels and resorts for couples and families to enjoy and relax near Bali’s best beaches!

Find Unique Dining Experiences in Nusa Dua

From underwater aquariums, romantic experiences to beachfront settings, you’re spoiled for choice with places to eat!

1. Dine and find Nemo at this magical underwater kingdom!: Koral Restaurant at The Apurva Kempinski Bali

Imagine stepping into an Atlantean restaurant, colourful fish all around you, a soft blue glow lighting up your surroundings, and the delicious smell of fresh seafood!

That’s what awaits you as you enter Bali’s first underwater aquarium restaurant (that’s right, just like in the Maldives!). Time to discover The Apurva Kempinski’s little gem – Koral Restaurant, which promises an out-of-this-world dining experience with top-notch food and a stunning view around you!

Now, for a grand affair: why not opt for their four-course dinner, sampling some of their favourite dishes? Think lobster and crab, and the menu changes seasonally. There are three menus to choose from, including a vegetarian/vegan option and an eight-course feast. Across the board, seafood is the star of this show!

Make sure to ask for the best wine pairings to complete your dining experience!

Or better yet, sign up for their Sunday Brunchcation at their other dining site – Pala Restaurant! You’ll love its beachfront location. Or ditch all the fancy fine dining and spend the day lazying around the pool or with your feet (comfortably) in the sand at the Reef Beach Club.

2. Feel like you’re in a romantic Disney movie: Samabe Beach Cave Dinner

It’s no secret that Nusa Dua is home to some of Bali’s best 5-star accommodations, and many couples choose the area for this very reason. Keeping up with the Joneses, Samabe is no different, and lovers especially find this stay a dreamy option.

But enough about LaLa Land; apart from the insane private pool villas and oceanfront facing suites, the resort has a ton of romantic dining experiences, but our absolute favourite is the intimate (and magical) cave dinner, set up inside, well, a cave on the stay’s private beach area!

Literally dining inside a cavern, there are only six tables (so it’s super private and extra romantic) and if you’re planning on popping the question, this is THEE perfect spot (request the front table or you can book out the entire cave for a higher fee).

The menu? Degustation style and filled with all sorts of fancy bites, from scallops to foie gras! There’s also a vegetarian menu for our plant-based diners.

Good to know: Samabe’s Cave Dinner isn’t the resort’s only dreamy dinner experience, and they can also help to organise a cliff gazebo dinner, beach cabana or private beach setup.

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3. Dine in the pool or on bean bags with your toes in the sand: Kekeb Restaurant

Eating out on a budget in Nusa Dua usually means avoiding most of the restaurants located along the beach, with one exception: Kekeb Restaurant. Located smack-bang on the beach, Kekeb Restaurant is where all your bohemian dreams come true.

Settle on one of their beanbags, under colourful Balinese umbrellas and enjoy the sand in between your toes as you indulge on a plate of freshly caught seafood. This good-looking eatery specialises in authentic Balinese and Asian cuisine so expect an explosion of flavours when it comes to food.

The venue is ideal for families with kids as you’ll find a pool at your disposal and young ones can simply hang out and play by the beach while you enjoy a stress-free meal by the ocean. You can even book a floating meal in the pool, and perfect that Instagram-worthy picture.

4. A satisfying feast for both the belly and the eyes – Arwana Restaurant

Arwana is designed in such spectacular ways that you can call the place itself a feast for the eyes!

Overlooking the vast ocean with the sound of lapping waves, this exclusive table arrangement invites you to take a few steps down into a private area, with large seaters among dimly lit lanterns and wooded decorations.

As you enjoy the breeze and panorama of Nusa Dua Beach (and the sparkling ocean making for a gorgeous date atmosphere), be prepared to tantalise your tastebuds with the huge selections of creative lunch and dinner dishes.

Enjoy fresh local seafood, including lobster, oysters and sushi, that have been brilliantly prepared by the hands of professional chefs. The chef recommendations are phenomenally delicious with commendable service by the ever-helpful and attentive staff, too.

Other than the beachfront terrace, Arwana also hosts dinners in the warm indoor dining rooms. With an open-air kitchen that instantly relaxes you with the passion of their humming kitchen, relax under the tropical roof where a laid-back soundtrack accompanies your night.

5. A dining icon of Nusa Dua: Tamarind Restaurant Bali

Joining the premiere destination of Nusa Dua, Tamarind Restaurant Bali (also known as Tamarind Kitchen & Lounge), is a masterpiece packed with a grand dining experience for its distinguished guests.

Located right at the renowned panoramic beachfront, the spectacular thatched roof Bamboo structure pavilion is set to be Bali’s next iconic eatery.

Stepping into the elegant restaurant, every detail of its sophisticated and sustainable bamboo architecture is simply stunning. Decked in tasteful designs and dazzling furnishing along the main hall, lounge, and table settings – the 2-floor restaurant invites you to enjoy a soothing ocean breeze and more, under one roof.

While the idyllic seashore entrances with its beauty, the chef’s creation of delightful culinary pleasures will keep you spellbound. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner of world-class standards; Tamarind’s chef and kitchen team sure know their way well around all the most indulging yet healthy creations of International and Indonesian cuisine.

The fascinating Tamarind Kitchen & Lounge doesn’t stop at its fantastic design, ambiance, menu, and service. It continues to go beyond expectations with its affordable pricing that leaves everyone in further appreciation.

6. Have a moonlit night of perfection: Nusa Dua Beach Grill

Located in between Geger beach and The Mulia Resort, this little slice of heaven is the perfect choice for a moonlit dinner with your loved ones. Overlooking the deep blue ocean, you can watch the transition between day and night from the perfect angle: goodbye sun, hello moon!

Grab a couple of pizzas, or sample some of their incredibly fresh seafood. Pair it with a few cold beers and you’ll feel super satisfied for the rest of the night! The soft sound of the waves lapping against the shore complements the background music to give off a wonderful ambience. A brilliant night of dining awaits!

More oceanfront restaurants in Bali: 20 Beachfront Restaurants in Bali Where You Can Dine with Stunning Ocean Views

Stay in Luxury 5-Star Resorts in Nusa Dua

Famed for its fancy, world-class accommodation, check into some of Nusa Dua’s finest hotels and resorts.

7. Home to two of Bali’s most well-known restaurants and all the 5-star luxuries – The St. Regis Bali Resort

If you want the ultimate stretch of sand in Nusa Dua, The St. Regis Bali Resort would be it.

Sitting right by the sea, the luxury beach resort invites guests to celebrate the special beauty, creativity and spirituality of the island.

All rooms and suites provide outdoor space and garden, 24-hour butler service, pool or beachfront views – with villas and residences offering direct access to the beach.

Outside, the hardest decision is whether to spend your time by the expansive lagoon-shaped salt-water swimming pool or on the sandy beach of Nusa Dua.

The six-plus restaurants and bars include Bali’s best 5-star hotel breakfast, brunch and dinner buffet at Boneka and Pan-Asian-inspired haute cuisine at Kayuputi.

At the spa, inspiration is taken from traditional Balinese healing practices. But most recently, things have taken a creative turn – apart from the therapeutic massages, body scrubs/wraps and detox offerings, the spa also offers palm reading, reiki, sound healing and a soul blessing.

8. Stay at a glorious resort with all the bells and whistles – Hilton Bali Resort

Famed for being one of the most luxurious beach getaways, Nusa Dua has plenty of fantastic beach resorts with luxurious amenities you might just be looking for.

And one of the luxurious beach resorts in Nusa Dua is the elegant Hilton Bali Resort.

With a claim to fame for incredible island and ocean views, and perched at the top of a 40m cliff towering above a secluded white sand beach – the sprawling, landscaped grounds of the Hilton Bali Resort are easily mistaken for a palace.

These encompass a jaw-dropping series of four interconnected pools, crisscrossed by gardens, sculptures and bridges. There’s also a separate children’s lagoon and a 30-metre water slide.

Certain rooms have direct pool access, others with garden or ocean views. Stay to the nines and book the ultra-luxe (and spacious) King Suite with private terrace overlooking it all!

Beach Club-Hopping

Laze away at quintessential Balinese beach clubs or with these Day Passes!

9. The perfect place to spend the day with #goodvibesonly: Canna Bali

Cue the classic white boho Balinese umbrellas, beachfront teepees, loungers along the shoreline and all the best vibes as DJs bring the heat at Canna Bali — a sophisticated playground along the sun-kissed shores of Benoa in Nusa Dua.

Open from morning until late in the evening, this beach club doubles as a party host if you wanna shake and groove, or is a lovely little hideaway for families during the day.

Hang out around the massive pool (built on the sand), or get salty in the ocean in front, taking up some fun water activities.

If you’re concerned about too much sun time, there are other areas to take reprieve, including VIP cabanas, seats on its two-level balcony, or treat yourselves to a fine-dining extravaganza at Canna’s jaw-dropping Cliff restaurant!

(We’re talking floor-to-ceiling windows and food presentation fit for the ‘Gram.)

On that foodie note, fill up on beachy bites from Canna’s restaurant, and there are plenty of daily drinks specials to quench your thirst!

10. A quintessential Bali beach club experience: Manarai Beach House

Why should the areas of Canggu or Seminyak have all the beach club fun? Manarai Beach House is a perfectly good option for the folks of Nusa Dua who want to get in on that Bali party action. It’s become almost a quintessential experience!

With a beachfront infinity pool, and several adorable little gazebos to laze about in, this place will charm you from the moment you step foot in it!

Settle down by the bar and order a few too many cocktails before heading for a nice cooling dip in the ocean. When you’re all worn out, plonk yourself under the billowing curtains on the beach or on their verandah and drift peacefully into a light sleep!

11. Access the incredible pools and private beach with a day pass – The Shore Restaurant @ Hilton Bali Resort

For those who love luxurious resort facilities, but don’t want to stay there – Hilton Bali Resort is one of those special luxury resorts offering a Day Pass for non-hotel guests down at its Shore Restaurant.

It gives you access to the resort’s four pools and private beach area, 30-meter waterslide, water activities, Jungle Camp, Kids Club for children under 12 (for an additional charge) and indoor tennis courts.

Comfy poolside cabanas are available for rent, or hang ten on one of the loungers.

Tip: To get your day in paradise, ask at the Tour Desk counter on arrival.

12. Grab a day pass by Bali’s best beaches: Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa

Clear blue skies, emerald blue oceans, and two pools which you can access all day! Switch between the salty seas, and the fresh swimming pools as many times as you want with a Day Pass, and remember to explore each and every crevice of the beautiful surroundings!

Located on Bali’s south coast, where the crowds are thinner, the beaches are whiter, and the sun seems to shine brighter, Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa is the ideal place to park yourselves for a day of relaxation, lazing on the beach, and enjoying the facilities of a world-class hotel!

What’s more? If you are visiting with family, your kids will never be bored here, as they not only have access to the world’s playground (the beach) but they can also enjoy the special kids club that the hotel provides!

Thrilling Watersports and Activities

Get your heart racing with these adrenaline-pumping, ocean-centric activities and Nusa Dua’s most exciting water sports!

13. Sail past coral reefs and colourful fish on crystal blue waters during a glass-bottom boat trip to: Turtle Island

Any guesses as to why Serangan Island is nicknamed Turtle Island? That’s right, it’s home to Bali’s green sea turtles, and in fact, is one of the most sacred spots where the aquatic creatures nest.

If you’re searching for an incredible day trip from Nusa Dua, a glass-bottom boat ride over to the tiny isle is hard to beat! (If you’re not sold on the whole glass-bottom kayak vibe, there is also now a 110-meter-long pedestrian bridge in Sanur connecting the isle to the mainland. But boat trips depart directly from Nusa Dua).

You can not only see turtles but visit the island’s Turtle Conservation Centre (a great cause) to learn more about the reptiles, or help out by adopting one (no taking home, obviously) — so you’ll remember your new Bali mate forever. And please be respectful of the ancient animals no matter where you spot them on the island. They are friends, NOT food or medicine! 🙂

Apart from the turtle-loving things to do, there are a handful of seafood restaurants as well as some local homestays if you want to spend the night, and Sakenan Temple is here too. Nestled on the coastline, with the serene ocean at its back, the temple is also the epitome of gorgeous traditional architecture.

Watersports are popular too, including snorkelling and kayaking.

14. Get ready to catch some serious air: Surfing

Just around the corner from Uluwatu (Bali’s most famous surf spot), Nusa Dua also boasts some epic waves, and its cliffy makeup creates impressive swell!

Whether you’re still just learning to surf or have been catching barrels since you were a grom, there are surf spots around Nusa Dua for all levels.

For the pros, Sri Lanka Beach Bali is exhilarating and you gotta risk it for the biscuit, cruising over a shallow reef and high swells (and when it’s popping off, it becomes crowded with locals, just FYI.)

If you’ve just learned the ropes, or want to have some fun playing on mellow waters, hit up Blackstone Nusa Dua Beach. Known for having ‘mushy’ waves, these nice, soft tumbles are perfect for beginners and are a lot more manageable than many of the places around. There are also a few surf schools that will bring you here to learn.

Surf Paradise Bali – Nusa Dua Surf School has both private one-on-one and semi-private lessons for all levels lasting two hours, as well as group and kids’ sessions. All equipment is provided, and they also offer a free pick-up and drop-off — BONUS!

15. Get your adrenaline pumping with flyboarding, jet bikes, parasailing and donut boat rides: Watersports

Watersports are a hot hit among the things to do in Nusa Dua. From the flat waters of Tanjung Benoa Beach, suddenly, a man just sprouts a jet of water coming out from what appears to be a boot. You might start to wonder – is it Iron Man or Aqua Man? Well, ladies and gents, this is flyboarding!

Invented by a former jet-ski champion, Franky Zapata, it borrows elements of surfing (like balance) with a jet ski motor. There are a few operators around Nusa Dua offering the adrenaline-inducing watersport, but it’s not the only riveting oceanic-based activity in town.

If that’s not enough, there are also jet bikes (a similar concept to flyboarding, instead of a board, you will use a bike!!!), parasailing (propelled into the air from the back of a boat), fun jet skis to rent, fast-paced banana boat rides, crazy flying fish inflatables and donut rides holding on for dear life!

Luckily, your landing pad is the Deep Blue!

Natural Wonders & Beaches

From Nusa Dua’s most iconic stretches of sand to some of Mother Nature’s most spectacular …

16. Catch the magnificent: Waterblow at Nusa Dua

Envision majestic Indian Ocean waves crashing against rock cliffs – have you ever seen a waterblow in person? Visit the hidden rock cliff in Nusa Dua to witness one of nature’s prettiest sights.

This natural phenomenon happens when waves hit the narrow space within the rock cliff where pressure builds, and water then blows up!

And remember; be careful to keep a distance to avoid getting wet.

17. Step onto a seaweed paradise: Geger Beach

Nestled in Nusa Dua, Bali’s luxury villa neighbourhood, Geger Beach has experienced development at one end, while the other remains gorgeously untouched.

In fact, what’s left of this little slice of paradise is a hideout for passionate beach-goers looking for a break from the crowd. The place is popular with local expats rather than tourists, no surprises since they are probably residents in the high-end locality.

While you enjoy your quiet afternoon by the sand and sea, don’t forget to visit its seaweed farms, where the plants are harvested to produce cosmetics. You can even spot the farmers at work on the beach.

With calm and crystal clear water, Geger Beach is also perfect for swimmers and snorkellers. Its seaweed farms attract spectacular reef fish into the shallow waters too!

18. Come for endless panoramic views: Gunung Payung Beach

Gunung Payung is not only a hidden paradise, but is also (thankfully) quite accessible for being one.

One can follow a marker road to reach here. Once here, get treated to panoramic views of the ocean right to the horizon!

The beach is clean and perfect for trying out some yoga. You can also engage in various activities like surfing and snorkeling – or more culturally interesting ones like getting a glimpse of the local ways of life.

Watch the seaweed farmers and sea urchin collectors go about their daily chores, and strike up a conversation or two, just to learn more about what they do. Who knows, you might just be able to sample seaweed or sea urchin thanks to your new friendship. :p

Spa, Beauty Treatments and Pure Relaxation

From 5-star spa experiences to one-of-a-kind salons, treat yourselves!

19. Enjoy a spa-cially sweet time with the little ones: Kriya Spa at Grand Hyatt Bali

Kriya Spa is truly the best place for you to shake off any parenting blues and escape into a world of relaxation. The 24 independent spa villas all come with their own plunge pools, yoga massage mat, outdoor and indoor treatment stations, as well as a fully-equipped bathroom.

Nothing beats a quiet relaxing massage away from all the hustle and bustle of the outside world!

The most basic option is the 60-minute Balinese Massage, but the therapist will take the time to sit down and ask about your preferred pressure level, and areas to avoid or focus on. It is a small touch, but one that clearly shows the level of care and attention that the spa showers on its patrons.

20. Get pampered whilst sipping on spectacular coffee (a TikTok fave): Eighteen Coffee

One for our serious coffee connoisseurs (and any suckers of minimalist interiors), Eighteen Coffee means business!

Forget about a cup of weak kopi, and get your buzz on with this selection of specialty drinks, from oversized cold craft lattes (its signature drink) to a hazelnut choco (espresso, hazelnut, chocolate and peanuts). They even have a mocktail series — because we all know how delicious “Baileys” goes down with caffeinated concoctions.

Not a coffee fan? No worries, there’s iced matcha, fresh juices and magical-looking teas, like the Green Irish made with butterfly pea flowers.

If you’re feeling peckish, Eighteen offer an extensive food menu too, comprising breakfast, snacks and mains, like pizzas, pastas, salad, steak dishes, sandwiches and local Indo favourites.

Plus, how nifty is this one: part of the cafe (and on the same property) is the Eighteen Salon. Why not get a blowout or your nails done while simultaneously enjoying an excellent cuppa! Treaments also include facial massages, facials and even makeup sessions. Consider us sold!

Learn About Balinese Culture

Balinese traditions, stories, out-of-this-world shows, art and more, get to know the Island of the Gods’ culture!

21. A taste of tradition under the stars: Pasar Senggol at Grand Hyatt Bali

Pasar Senggol is the most iconic dinner event at Grand Hyatt Bali.

Inspired by traditional Balinese night markets, you will love the wonderful world of outdoor dining, with live food stalls serving freshly cooked (or grilled) Indonesian and Balinese food, as well as craft stalls located outside the restaurant (where artists sell handmade crafts such as bracelets) and cultural performances ready to entertain you as you dine.

The seafood spread of marinated squid and fish was also a taste to remember, and the specialty Pandan cake was incredibly fluffy, just sweet enough to cleanse the palate after an extra savoury meal. From savoury and sweet to spicy and cool, there’s a unique taste that will appeal to everyone here, so don’t worry even if your child (or you) are a picky eater!

It’s one of the best cultural things to do in Nusa dua at night!

22. A cultural extravaganza and foodie feast in one: Art Cafe Bumbu Bali

Here’s a concept to fall in love with: a culinary, cultural and art-centric set-up, celebrating the food, traditions and people of Bali!

Designed as a creative cafe where local artists and performers show off their talents, the walls are decorated in local artwork, and during meal times, traditional Balinese dance troupes (dressed in golden nines) put on a little show in the center of the room — no need to buy tickets for a Kecak show here!

Naturally, the menus are a feast of Indonesian flavours (different for lunch and dinner), showcasing authentic dishes and ingredients in the most colourful way — warung style! AND, if you take your food seriously, or are keen to try something new, Art Cafe Bumbu also has its very own culinary school offering cooking classes.

On top of that, you can also stay with these ever-welcoming hosts at one of six guest rooms as part of its DI ATAS accommodation.

P.S. They also offer surf lessons and photography classes!

23. Cirque du Soleil meets culture of Indonesia: Devdan Show

What makes the Devdan dance and culture show so different from the many traditional dance performances in Bali?

It perfectly reflects the “Zeitgeist” of Indonesia, marrying the rich culture of the country with modernity and contemporary elements. The 90-minute world-class show takes you on a journey throughout Bali … Sumatra, Java, Borneo and Papua …

One minute you admire an intricate traditional dance, performed by an array of dancers on a state-of-the-art stage, bustling with excitement and countless stage effects ranging from torrential rain to flame bursts.

In the next, you are taken by surprise with modern solo and duo acrobatic aerial acts, so beautifully choreographed and performed.

The Devdan Show is perfect for all ages; and the stories are easily understood with discreet signage of the various acts in numerous languages throughout the performance.

Those eager to learn about different Indonesian regions will be leaving the visually and artistically delightful show with memories well beyond the exit door.

P.S. Stage and artistic directors of the famed Cirque du Soleil were involved in the acrobatic training and stage creation when Devdan Show was launched in 2011. Devdan Show was awarded the Indonesia Travel and Tourism Awards (ITTA) Foundation’s prestigious “Indonesia’s leading tourism show 2014/2015” shortly after!

24. Watch harmony and peace between religions: Puja Mandala

There’s something so magical about seeing Puja Mandala. For those who don’t know, this place is the site of five different religious places of worship – a mosque, a Hindu temple, a Bhuddist temple, a Catholic church, and a Protestant church.

Living in a world with so much hate and tension between people of different races, religions, and colours, visiting Puja Mandala is a much needed reminder that the world can get along together in peace! Marvel at the gorgeous architecture and relish in its magnificence!

Nusa Dua is an ideal location for families, as well as couples, with plenty of 5-star luxury resorts and mid-range options to keep everyone happy.

From its world-class accommodation to fine dining to beaches beyond the usual perimeters, consider Nusa Dua for a little slice of paradise away from the typical Bali tourist crowds. 

If you prefer to explore other luxury resorts outside of Nusa Dua, check out our specially curated list for the best options all around Bali! Ultimately, it’s all about the vibes that resonate with you!

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

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