March 5, 2020

Our Travel Guide to Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is Bali’s slickest upmarket resort complex, and the place to visit if you want to get away from it all and relax next the pool, sunbathe on the postcard perfect beach or get some water sports in. Encompassing the golden swathe of sand on the east coast of the Bukit Peninsula, the hotels, luxury villas, restaurants and spas here extend all the way from the Bali Golf and Country Club to the tip of the Tanjung Benoa peninsula.

Attractions

Nusa Dua’s main draw is its stunning beach. Soft golden sand and calm, warm waters make it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just relaxing. Many resorts sit right on the beachfront, so you can walk from your room to the sea in minutes. To enjoy the coastline fully, take a stroll along the 7-kilometer beachfront promenade.

Just south of Nusa Dua, Gegar Beach offers a more local vibe. You’ll find small food stalls, calm waters for swimming, and good spots for snorkelling. It’s a peaceful spot without the usual resort crowds.

For culture lovers, Museum Pasifika showcases an impressive mix of Indonesian, Asian, European, and Polynesian art. Some pieces date back centuries, while others are modern interpretations. The museum also features works from Western artists who found inspiration in Bali during the early 20th century.

Along the beach, you’ll also spot traditional shrines. Local ceremonies, often held to honour the sea spirit Jero Gede Mecaling, offer a glimpse into Balinese spirituality.

Things to Do

Water sports are a big part of the Nusa Dua experience. The reef-protected bay keeps the water calm, making it ideal for families with young children or beginner swimmers. You’ll find swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, windsurfing, and even some light surfing further out. Dive operators offer trips to coral-rich underwater spots around the island, and boats from nearby Benoa Harbour can take you to nearby islands for day trips.

Although the Bali National Golf Club is currently temporarily closed (as of May 2025) for redevelopment, golf lovers can keep an eye on updates via the official website or explore other golf courses around Bali, such as New Kuta Golf in Pecatu or Handara Golf Resort in Bedugul.

If you’d rather relax, Nusa Dua is home to some of the most luxurious spa resorts in Bali. Enjoy massages, flower baths, and wellness therapies while surrounded by tropical beauty.

For a unique activity, visit the Waterblow attraction—where waves crash dramatically against a natural rock formation. It’s a favorite for photography and only a short walk from the main hotel area.

Shopping & Dining

Nusa Dua offers more than just nature. At Bali Collection, an open-air shopping and dining complex, you’ll find local crafts, international brands, and a wide range of restaurants and cafés. Whether you’re in the mood for Balinese dishes or Western favourites, there’s something for every taste.

Outside the gated resort area, the Tanjung Benoa village offers more budget-friendly local eateries and a glimpse of authentic Balinese life.

The Scene

Nusa Dua is a peaceful retreat. It’s best suited for honeymooners, couples, and families looking to unwind. Unlike the party scenes in Seminyak or Kuta, Nusa Dua is calm and quiet at night. Most entertainment here comes in the form of beach walks, fine dining, and cultural shows hosted by resorts.

Because the area was developed specifically for tourism in the 1970s, many of the workers in the hotels and spas are from other parts of Bali or Indonesia. You’ll still receive warm Balinese hospitality, but in a more curated environment.

Planning Your Stay in Bali

To discuss planning your stay with one of our villa specialists, please get in touch.