Green Bowl Beach Ungasan: Bali’s Hidden Gem & Cave Guide

Green Bowl Beach is a hidden beach behind a hill, presenting a panoramic view of the sea that blends beautifully with the existence of natural caves. This beach is one of the white sandy beaches in South Bali that has turquoise water. The combination of ocean views and limestone cliffs provides the perfect atmosphere to relax. Located in the Ungasan area, this beach is included in the top tourist destinations and is suitable for inclusion in the list of “Badung Interesting Places to Visit.”

Although Green Bowl Beach has been crowded with tourists, it still offers tranquility for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Before being known as Green Bowl, this beach was called Bali Cliff Beach, referring to the Bali Cliff Hotel that sits atop the cliff. Some people also refer to this beach as Hidden Beach Ungasan because of its hidden location and not many tourists know about it.

The name “Green Bowl” itself is taken from the shape of the corals that look like green mossy bowls at low tide. From the top of the cliff, the view of the beach resembles a green bowl. Another perspective suggests that the name originates from PT Greenbowl Indonesia, a company that once operated in the area and was involved in hotel construction.

Location and Route to Green Bowl Beach

Green Bowl Beach is located in Ungasan Village, South Kuta District, Badung Regency. The location is quite hidden, but there are several interesting attractions in the vicinity. You can explore Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park, located just 4.4 km away, or relax at Melasti Beach and Karma Kandara Beach, both within 1-2 km of the area. For adventure seekers, Bali Paintball Arena is only 1.5 km from the beach. This makes it easy to enjoy multiple attractions in a single trip.

From Denpasar, the distance is about 24.5 km with a travel time of approximately 38 minutes. To reach the location, you can take the route to Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park. After passing GWK, you will arrive at an intersection, then turn left. About 3 km from the intersection, you will find directions to Bali Cliff Beach. Follow the signs until you reach the former entrance of Bali Cliff Hotel. Take the left lane to get to Green Bowl Beach.

Keep in mind, to reach the shoreline, you have to climb down 328 steps. Therefore, make sure you have extra stamina to enjoy the beauty of this beach to the fullest.

Attractions of this Beautiful Beach

Green Bowl Beach is increasingly recognized because it has many attractions and features that attract the attention of tourists. The following are the uniqueness offered:

• White sand and blue sea: If you are looking for a less crowded beach, Green Bowl Beach is a great choice. The crystal clear turquoise sea water blends perfectly with the clean white sand. This view makes anyone feel at home for a long time enjoying its natural beauty.
• Historical cave: This beach has a unique cave that is an additional attraction. It contains hundreds of bats that are active at night. This cave with a semicircular door is often used as a favorite location for taking pictures because of its natural beauty.
• Soothing atmosphere: For those who crave a peaceful atmosphere, Green Bowl Beach is the perfect choice. It is located away from the crowds, giving the impression that you are on a private beach. The limestone cliffs surrounding the beach add to the exclusive and calming feel.
• Green bowl shape: The name “Green Bowl” was given because at low tide, the beach resembles a bowl with corals covered in green moss. This phenomenon is one of the unique attractions that make this beach special.
• The beauty of the sunset: This beach is also known as a place to enjoy the sunset. Although not too crowded, the atmosphere during sunset provides a romantic and calming experience.

Fun Activities You Can Do at Green Bowl Beach

As one of the popular beaches, Green Bowl Beach offers many interesting activities, including:

• Trekking: To reach the beach, you will have to climb down 328 steps from Batu Pageh Temple. Although tiring, the journey is worth it for the incredible views you will encounter. The turquoise sea and white sand will greet you with breathtaking beauty.
• Surfing: The large waves at this beach make it a favorite spot for surfers, especially foreign tourists. Surfing is best done from morning to evening before the tide starts to recede. Do not be surprised if many visitors are willing to carry surfboards while descending hundreds of steps.
• Culinary tour: Once you are satisfied playing in the water, you can enjoy a meal at the stalls around the beach. Menus such as fresh processed seafood to halal Balinese specialties are ready to pamper your tongue.
• Fishing: When the tide is low, the beach is an ideal place for fishing. Locals are often seen catching fish, and visitors can also join in. The caught fish can be processed directly at the locals’ homes or taken home.
• Enjoy the white sand: The pristine white sand that stretches across this beach creates the perfect place to relax. Bringing a mat and snacks will add to your comfort while enjoying the beach atmosphere.
• Sunset hunting: Although not a prime location for sunset, the view of the twilight sky at Green Bowl Beach is still mesmerizing. You can pose among the small corals to capture this beautiful moment.
• Cave exploration: The beach has coral caves that are used for various purposes, including a place for Hindus to worship during religious ceremonies. If you want to get a closer look at the bats, you can find them resting on the ceiling of the caves during the day. Towards evening, swarms of bats will come out creating a unique sight.
• Photography: The serene atmosphere of the beach allows you to explore every corner of it. Many interesting spots can be used as photo objects, including the cave and the instagramable sea panorama.

Facilities, Opening Hours, and Ticket Prices at Green Bowl Beach

• Facilities:

  Green Bowl Beach is equipped with basic facilities such as toilets (bathing, washing, toilet), access roads, small food shops, and parking areas near the entrance or around Batu Pageh Temple. However, these facilities are only available before you descend the stairs to the beach. Since there are no facilities at the beach area, make sure your needs are met, such as buying food or drinks, before going down.

• Operating Hours:

  Green Bowl Beach is open 24 hours a day, so you are free to visit anytime. However, it is recommended to come at certain times for the best experience. Morning is the ideal time to enjoy the quiet atmosphere while sunbathing on the white sand. The afternoon is also perfect for enjoying the mesmerizing sunset sky. The best time to visit is between 07:00 and 18:00 WITA.

• Ticket Price:

  To enter Green Bowl Beach, you only need to pay an entrance ticket of IDR 5,000 per person. This fee is used for the maintenance of Batu Pageh Temple which is located on the beach. In addition, there is a parking fee of IDR 5,000 for cars and IDR 2,000 for motorbikes.

Important Tips Before Visiting Green Bowl Beach

To make your vacation safer and more enjoyable, here are some tips that you should pay attention to:

• Pay attention to sea water conditions: Make sure you play on the beach when the tide is low. If you see the tide starting to rise, go back up immediately to avoid dangerous situations.
• Visit in the Daytime: The best time to visit is during the day when the tide is low. At that time, you can enjoy the beauty of white sand and stunning blue water without worrying about being caught by the tide.
• Use Sunblock: Do not forget to bring and apply sunblock to protect your skin from the scorching sun. This is important to avoid the risk of sunburn while at the beach.
• Make sure your body is fit: Green Bowl Beach requires visitors to descend around 400 steps to reach the beach. Make sure your body is fit as you will also have to climb the same number of stairs on your way back.
• Bring Supplies: Since the location is quite remote, it is advisable to bring supplies, especially drinking water. That way, you will not be thirsty or hungry while relaxing on the beach.
• Bring a Seating Mat: If you want to enjoy the beach without much activity, bring a sitting mat. Sitting or lying down on the white sand will be a pleasant experience.