When people think of Bali, names like Seminyak, Canggu and Ubud usually come to mind first. But if you’re looking for somewhere a bit more exclusive, incredibly scenic, and on the rise—Uluwatu should be at the top of your list. Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu is no longer just a surf haven. It’s quickly becoming one of the island’s most desirable destinations for tourists, digital nomads, retirees, and savvy property investors.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes Uluwatu such a magnetic location, the lifestyle it offers, and why it might just be the perfect place to live, invest or escape to.
The Allure of Uluwatu: What Makes It So Special?
Uluwatu has a vibe that’s hard to match. It’s a blend of rugged coastal beauty, luxury living, surf culture, and spiritual charm. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing against limestone cliffs, sipping your morning coffee with sweeping ocean views, and spending your afternoons at cliffside beach clubs or yoga retreats.
It’s quieter than Canggu, more spacious than Seminyak, and more upscale than Kuta—yet still authentically Balinese. The region has seen a steady increase in high-end development, making it an ideal base for those who want both tranquility and modern comforts.
Uluwatu for Tourists: A Destination That Keeps on Giving
For travellers, Uluwatu delivers the best of Bali in one location:
Iconic Beaches
Uluwatu is home to some of the best beaches in Bali—Padang Padang, Bingin, Dreamland, Thomas Beach and of course, the surf mecca of Uluwatu Beach itself. These aren’t your typical crowded beaches; they’re cliff-backed coves with turquoise water and golden sand. Ideal for sunbathing, surfing, swimming, or simply sipping a coconut while watching the sunset.
World-Class Surf
Surfers have long known about Uluwatu. It’s famous for its consistent reef breaks, attracting beginners and pros alike. The surf culture here is laid-back but serious. Even if you’re not a surfer, watching the action from a cliffside warung is an experience in itself.
Sunset Spots and Beach Clubs
Uluwatu might just have the best sunsets in Bali. Cliff-top venues like Single Fin, Savaya, El Kabron, and Ulu Cliffhouse offer panoramic views with cocktails and live music to match. It’s the perfect blend of nature and nightlife.
Uluwatu Temple
Don’t miss Pura Luhur Uluwatu, a stunning Balinese sea temple set on the cliff’s edge. It’s one of Bali’s most important cultural landmarks and offers breathtaking views, especially at sunset.
Digital Nomads Are Moving South: Why Uluwatu Is the Next Remote Work Hub
While Canggu has been the go-to for digital nomads for years, many remote workers are now making the move to Uluwatu—and it’s easy to see why.
Co-Working Spaces and Cafés
Spots like Kinship Studio Uluwatu, OURS Café, The Cashew Tree, and Alchemy cater to those working online with great Wi-Fi, fresh food, and a relaxed atmosphere. These venues often double as social hubs, perfect for networking or just meeting other like-minded travellers.
Health & Wellness Culture
Uluwatu has quickly become a wellness destination, with an abundance of yoga studios, pilates classes, healthy eateries, and wellness retreats. Nomads living here find it easy to strike a healthy work-life balance.
Slower Pace, Better Quality of Life
Unlike Canggu, where traffic and crowds can be overwhelming, Uluwatu still offers space to breathe. The roads are quieter, the beaches less crowded, and the overall vibe more chilled. It’s the ideal place to work remotely without the stress.
Why Retirees Are Choosing Uluwatu
For Australians looking to retire abroad, Bali has long been a favourite. But while places like Sanur or Ubud were traditionally considered retirement hubs, Uluwatu is emerging as a more modern, luxurious alternative.
Safety and Community
Uluwatu has a growing expat community that’s tight-knit and supportive. Many retirees enjoy the safe, clean, and serene environment, with easy access to healthcare and daily conveniences.
Luxury Villas and Facilities
There are now plenty of villa developments that cater specifically to retirees, with single-level layouts, private pools, lush gardens, and concierge services. Many new builds also feature eco-friendly designs and community facilities like gyms and spas.
Easy Access to Healthcare and Services
While Uluwatu is peaceful, it’s not isolated. Jimbaran and Nusa Dua are just a short drive away, offering international-standard medical facilities, shopping centres, and even international schools for those retiring with family.
Investors Take Note: Why Uluwatu Is a Smart Buy
Uluwatu’s real estate market is one of the fastest-growing on the island. While it was once considered too remote for serious investment, the tide has turned—and quickly.
Rising Land Prices, Still Affordable
Land prices in Uluwatu have seen double-digit growth in recent years, but they’re still considerably cheaper than in Seminyak or Canggu. It’s one of the few areas in Bali where investors can still get in early and benefit from long-term capital gains.
High Rental Yields
Tourism in Uluwatu is booming, especially among luxury travellers. This means short-term villa rentals can command premium nightly rates, with occupancy rates high year-round thanks to the surf season, weddings, and wellness tourism.
Many investors are reporting gross rental yields between 8–12%, particularly for well-designed properties in prime locations with ocean views.
Government Support and Infrastructure Growth
Infrastructure in the area has improved dramatically. Roads have been upgraded, new cafés and restaurants are opening every month, and there’s even talk of a proposed second airport in North Bali, which could further boost the region’s accessibility and appeal.
What Type of Properties Are Available in Uluwatu?
Whether you’re looking for a private residence, investment villa, or retirement home, Uluwatu has a growing range of options:
- Cliff-Top Villas with panoramic ocean views
- Off-Plan Developments offering excellent value
- Eco-Luxury Villas with sustainable features
- Turnkey Holiday Homes with management services
- Leasehold and Freehold Options, depending on your investment strategy
Key Neighbourhoods in Uluwatu to Watch
Bingin
A mix of laid-back surf culture and stylish villas, Bingin is becoming one of the hottest areas in Bali. The beach is breathtaking, and it’s packed with boutique hotels, smoothie bars, and yoga spots.
Padang Padang
Popular with both tourists and expats, Padang Padang offers stunning cliffside views and easy access to cafes, restaurants and the beach. Properties here rent out very well.
Pecatu
Located slightly inland, Pecatu is home to larger villas and gated estates. It’s ideal for families or those wanting more privacy while still being close to the beach.
Nyang Nyang & Melasti
These up-and-coming areas are seeing increased development. While still relatively quiet, they offer huge growth potential for early investors.
Lifestyle Snapshot: What’s It Like Living in Uluwatu?
- Daily Life: Surf in the morning, co-work mid-day, hit a sunset beach club at night.
- Transport: Scooters are the go-to, but cars are becoming more common with wider roads and better infrastructure.
- Shopping & Essentials: Boutiques, supermarkets, and fresh produce markets are easily accessible.
- Dining Scene: From warungs to world-class dining, Uluwatu’s food scene is constantly evolving. Expect healthy bowls, fresh seafood, and even Michelin-star chefs.
- Nightlife: More refined than rowdy. Think cocktails by the pool, live acoustic music, and fire dancers at sunset.
- Community: Friendly, health-conscious, and creatively inclined.
Final Thoughts: Is Uluwatu Right for You?
If you’re looking for a destination that offers natural beauty, a strong sense of community, excellent investment opportunities, and an unmatched lifestyle, Uluwatu should be high on your radar. Whether you’re a tourist chasing sunsets, a digital nomad in search of inspiration, a retiree seeking serenity, or an investor looking for the next big thing—Uluwatu has something special to offer.
The future is bright for this cliffside paradise. And getting in now means you can be part of it as it continues to grow and evolve.
Looking to invest or buy in Uluwatu?
Explore our exclusive listings at www.balirealestate.com.au or get in touch with our team for personalised advice.
