The islands near Bali are known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back vibes. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to relax with a drink in hand, the beachfront cafés on these islands offer the perfect setting to soak up the sun and enjoy delicious food.
Easily accessible by fast boat from Bali, these cafés provide a slice of paradise just a short trip away. Here’s a guide to the best beachfront cafés on islands near Bali.
Nusa Lembongan: Cafés with a View
Overview
Nusa Lembongan, a small island just a short boat ride from Bali, is famous for its pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The island is dotted with beachfront cafés that offer stunning views of the ocean, making it a popular destination for those looking to unwind.
Top Beachfront Cafés
- The Deck Café & Bar
Description: The Deck Café & Bar is perched on the hillside overlooking Jungut Batu Beach, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and Mount Agung in the distance. The café serves a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, salads, and smoothies, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or sunset drinks.
Highlights: The sunset views from The Deck are unparalleled, and the atmosphere is lively yet laid-back, with regular live music performances.
- Sandy Bay Beach Club
Description: Located on the secluded Sandy Bay, this beach club offers a chic and stylish setting with a relaxed vibe. The menu features a mix of international and local dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, organic ingredients. The beachfront location provides the perfect backdrop for a day of lounging and dining.
Highlights: The infinity pool overlooking the ocean is a highlight, along with the stunning sunset views and the cozy fire pit for evening gatherings.
How to Get There
Fast boats to Nusa Lembongan depart from Sanur and take about 30 minutes. Both cafés are easily accessible from the main harbor, with local transport options available.
Gili Trawangan: A Mix of Vibrant and Relaxed Cafés
Overview
Gili Trawangan, the largest of the Gili Islands, is known for its vibrant nightlife and lively beachfront scene. However, it also offers plenty of laid-back beachfront cafés where you can enjoy a relaxed meal or a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning ocean views.
Top Beachfront Cafés
- Pituq Café
Description: Pituq Café offers a relaxed and cozy atmosphere right on the beach, with a focus on healthy, plant-based dishes. The menu features a variety of smoothie bowls, salads, and vegan treats, making it a favorite among health-conscious travelers.
Highlights: The café’s beachfront location provides the perfect setting for a healthy breakfast or lunch, with bean bags and hammocks adding to the laid-back vibe.
- Casa Vintage Beach
Description: Casa Vintage Beach combines a boutique shopping experience with a beachfront café, offering a unique and stylish setting. The café serves a mix of Caribbean-inspired dishes, with fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and a selection of homemade desserts.
Highlights: The café’s beachfront cabanas and sun loungers provide a perfect spot to relax, and the evening bonfires add a magical touch to the experience.
How to Get There
Fast boats to Gili Trawangan depart from Padang Bai, Serangan, and Amed, with the journey taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. Both cafés are easily accessible from the main harbor by foot or bicycle.
Gili Air: A Tranquil Escape with Beachfront Charm
Overview
Gili Air offers a more relaxed and tranquil atmosphere compared to its neighboring islands, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds. The island’s beachfront cafés reflect this laid-back vibe, offering a perfect setting to enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the waves.
Top Beachfront Cafés
- Mowies Bar
Description: Mowies Bar is a popular beachfront spot on Gili Air, known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunset views. The menu features a mix of international and Indonesian dishes, along with a wide selection of fresh juices and cocktails.
Highlights: The beachfront bean bags and hammocks provide a perfect spot to unwind, and the café’s sunset views are some of the best on the island.
- Gili Lumbung Beach Club
Description: Gili Lumbung Beach Club offers a casual and friendly atmosphere, with a menu that includes fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and refreshing cocktails. The beachfront setting is perfect for a relaxed meal or a refreshing drink after a day of snorkeling or exploring the island.
Highlights: The café’s rustic design and beachfront seating create a cozy and welcoming vibe, with live music performances adding to the experience.
How to Get There
Fast boats to Gili Air depart from Padang Bai and Serangan, with the journey taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. The cafés are easily accessible from the main harbor, with local transport options available.
Nusa Penida: Hidden Gems with Stunning Views
Overview
Nusa Penida is known for its dramatic landscapes and unspoiled beauty. While the island is still developing, it offers some hidden gems when it comes to beachfront cafés. These spots are perfect for those looking to enjoy a meal with a view in a more secluded setting.
Top Beachfront Cafés
- Penida Colada Beach Bar
Description: Penida Colada Beach Bar offers a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere right on the beach, with stunning views of the ocean. The menu features a variety of tropical cocktails, fresh seafood, and international dishes, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely meal or a refreshing drink.
Highlights: The café’s beachfront location provides an ideal setting for sunset drinks, and the laid-back vibe is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the island.
- Amok Sunset
Description: Amok Sunset is perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The menu includes a mix of Asian and Western dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The café’s stylish design and stunning views make it a must-visit spot on Nusa Penida.
Highlights: The infinity pool and cliffside seating create a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere, with the sunset views being the highlight of the experience.
How to Get There
Fast boats to Nusa Penida depart from Sanur, with the journey taking about 30-45 minutes. The cafés are located a short drive from the main harbor, with local transport options available.
Nusa Ceningan: Quaint Cafés with Island Charm
Overview
Nusa Ceningan, the smallest of the three Nusa Islands, offers a quaint and quiet atmosphere that is perfect for a peaceful getaway. The island’s beachfront cafés reflect this charm, offering cozy settings with stunning views of the ocean.
Top Beachfront Cafés
- Sea Breeze Café
Description: Sea Breeze Café is a charming beachfront spot on Nusa Ceningan, offering a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The menu features a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
Highlights: The café’s beachfront seating and hammocks provide a perfect spot to unwind, with stunning views of the ocean and the neighboring islands.
- Le Pirate Beach Club
Description: Le Pirate Beach Club offers a unique and stylish beachfront experience, with a focus on simple yet delicious food. The menu includes fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and tropical cocktails, all served in a chic and casual setting.
Highlights: The café’s beachfront bungalows and infinity pool create a relaxed and fun atmosphere, with the beach just steps away.
How to Get There
Fast boats to Nusa Ceningan usually involve a short transfer from Nusa Lembongan, with the two islands connected by a bridge. The cafés are easily accessible from the main areas of the island.
The islands near Bali offer a variety of beachfront cafés, each with its own unique charm and stunning views. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant spot on Gili Trawangan, a tranquil escape on Gili Air, or a hidden gem on Nusa Penida, these cafés provide the perfect setting to enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in the beauty of the ocean.
