Date of Travel: November 2016
It’s been awhile since Part 1, which I wrote about the touristy sights in Bali (Ubud) which I was definitely not impressed with – too much crowd, too high expectations. So I’ve finally gotten around to writing about Part 2 (amidst my crazy renovation planning and ROM shebangs) – the two hidden gems YOU HAVE TO VISIT!
- Melasti Cliff (Ungasan Cliff)
- Green Bowl Beach
#1. Melasti Cliff / Ungasan Cliff
After getting super disappointed the day before with all the touristy touch-and-go sights, we spent the night doing some thorough research and digging before we found this spot – and everything seemed too good to be true!
I mean, hidden cliff…gorgeous blue waters… and no one to disrupt your me-time? That’s just too amazing!
Getting There. This was the only hard part as it was not well-known amongst the drivers. We had to use our google map to navigate the driver – thankfully he was super willing to take the adventure with us!
(We used Mano +62 856 3778 685, who charged us 550,000 IDR for the day and drop-off at airport! Amazing guy, let him know you got the contact from Jeremy!)
Costs: No entrance fees! Nada. nothing!
It was amazing! Once you arrive there, you will see the cliff overlooking the gorgeous gorgeous blue waters below, and the winding roads on the right.
If you are feeling more adventurous, there will be a flight of steps which you can climb up to a clearing!
It’s definitely manageable, so don’t worry about the climb! Once you get to the top, you’ll have to go through some shrubs (and rocks) to get out to the clearing. THEN, you’ll have arrived to the top of the cliff.
The view here is UH-MAY-ZING. Better than anything you’ve seen.. and the best part? You’ve got it all to yourself.
On the far right is the Banyan Tree Ungasan Hotel – if you are feeling atas go ahead and drop by there for a meal or stay! If you have extra time, head down to the beaches too, you definitely won’t regret it.
#2. Green Bowl Beach
From what I’ve heard, this beach used to be a private beach to a resort. But after a natural disaster hit, the resort was never restored and the beach became accessible to the public.
Getting There. Definitely use Google Maps too! You will need a driver, as it’s hard to get there on your own.
Costs: Small entrance fee (5,000 – 15,000 IDR)
*Climbing down: When you arrive, you will need to climb down a long flight of steps (about 300 steps!!) so it will take some effort. I strongly recommend you to get some drinks or ice cream from the shop at the top before you start, and just enjoy the climb down. The climb back up will be more painful, fyi haha!
Tips: The only thing I didn’t like about the beach was the peddlers who WILL harass you. At the top, some old ladies will try to convince you for massages (say no! I’ve read that they are a rip-off) and on the beach itself, quite a few vendors will stalk you and harass you, to the point of not leaving until you buy. Be very firm, don’t give in, and make sure someone stays with your belongings, or if there are any others around, you can politely ask them to help keep a lookout!
Bring beach towels, water and snacks, or you might have to buy some (at a higher price) from the ladies!
Other than that, this place is phenomenal. There are small caves for you to sit under and relax in the shade. The waters are clear and refreshing, and the beach is clean!
What more could you ask for?
xxxx
Heading to Bali soon? Don’t forget to check out these places, I hope you’ll love them as much as I did!
Comments are closed.