When you head to Bali on holidays, you are likely to enjoy sipping a quality cocktail or two. If you like the odd tipple and want to experience the ambience and fun culture of Bali at the same time, then a taste test at some of the brilliant bars in the area is a must. Read on for five of the best beach bars in Bali to enjoy when you choose Bali as your tropical holiday destination. (Photo "Hammock in the Bahamas" by coast)Ku De Ta
Ku De Ta has long had a reputation as one of the most iconic venues in Bali, and if you’re looking to visit the quintessential Bali beach bar, then add this one to your list. A restaurant and bar popular with both ex-pats and tourists, Ku De Ta provides everything you need in a Balinese beach bar — an idyllic setting, location near the ocean, spectacular sunset views, chic decor and fit-out, and efficient, friendly staff. Making it on The World’s Best Bars website, this institution in Kuta, Bali is home to a variety of separate bar areas for patrons to choose from. The Tree Bar, for example, is reminiscent of a tropical forest setting and features irregularly-cut timber shards and artfully-arranged trunks. Fidel’s, on the other hand, is the place to drink if you want to see and be seen. It features an elongated, lit-up teak bar, copper chandeliers and leather couches.
La Plancha
Located in Seminyak, La Plancha was the first bar to introduce beanbags to beach. The establishment is renowned for its colourful and crazily-shaped beanbags that are plonked on the sand, perfectly situated for patrons to enjoy long, lazy cocktail hours and spectacular Balinese sunsets. With a funky Spanish surfer vibe, La Plancha features quirky decor such as stained-glass lamps, colourful umbrellas and ramshackle furniture. The bar was named after a traditional Spanish style of cooking and offers a laid-back, unpretentious vibe with budget-friendly prices. This beach shack is popular with the younger crowd and regularly hosts Friday night DJ events to draw crowds. Those wanting a bite to eat with their drinks can enjoy some of La Plancha’s Mediterranean-inspired fare as well.
Potato Head Beach Club
Another Seminyak venue, the Potato Head Beach Club is a hip and happening spot popular with locals and tourists alike. The owners have brought the feeling of Palm Springs to Seminyak with the colourful antique shutters that are mounted onto a replica of the Colosseum and lead the way to the funky swim-up bar. Patrons love to cool down on hot summer nights in the beautiful beachfront infinity pool surrounded by day-beds, and the extensive list of cocktails — many designed by renowned mixologist Dre Masso — add to the fun vibe. At sunset, Potato Head transforms into a funky nightclub, and the venue features regular DJ appearances and even big-name acts such as Empire of the Sun and M.I.A. The amphitheatre-style layout creates great acoustics and the chic decor is part mid-century part industrial, with a variety of vintage furnishings. (Photo "Cocktail Drink" by Rohana)
Rock Bar
Located at the rear of the luxurious Ayana Resort and Spa, Rock Bar clings to the cliff’s edge along a breathtaking stretch of Jimbaran Bay. If you’re a traveler who loves to feel like you belong to part of a secret society, this will be your ideal beach bar. While sipping on creative cocktails (their signature martini is fittingly called ‘On the Rocks’) you can listen to the sound of the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean and appreciate magnificent sunset views. Sophisticated crowds are the regular patrons here, and the minimalist design of the fit-out is intended to emphasize the natural beauty in the rocky outcrop of the location. The bar is accessible only by cable car, adding an extra touch of glamour to any visit.
WooBar
The first W Hotel in Bali is also home to the sophisticated beachside establishment called WooBar. A three-level hot spot with a regular rotation of international DJs and an assortment of signature cocktails, WooBar is fast becoming one of the most happening spots in Bali. The bar features an unconventional design that includes an under-beach dance floor, an upstairs chill zone where you can see the entertainment below, comfy beanbags and a coral reef-inspired main bar. Patrons can also puff on an assortment of flavoured hookahs or enjoy the prime ocean views.
About the Author: Simone Ravi is a travel writer and restaurant reviewer who loves to discover the latest and greatest new venues around the world.
