Bias Tugel also known as White Sand Beach near Candidasa and Padangbai. The approach to the beach goes through private property and local Read more...
PADANGBAI – OVERVIEW
Padangbai is known for…
- Snorkelling and Scuba Diving
- Boats to Lombok, Labuan Bajo, etc
- Quiet atmosphere
- Traditional villages nearby
- Beautiful beaches
- Seafood
How is Padangbai in general?
Crowded harbor by day, chill port town by night
Padangbai is the biggest port for boats travelling between Bali and Lombok, to nearby and Eastern Islands, such as the Nusa and Gili islands. A bustling hub in the eastern coast surrounded by lush hills and beautiful beaches, a common sight are the boats that come and go everyday.
Although people come to Padangbai to catch a ferry to cross the sea, this area actually has amazing snorkeling and diving sites as well. Whether slowing down before or after island hopping, this place offers exciting experiences right here in this port town.
Padangbai – Guide & Insights
Padangbai - Where to stay
Seeing as this is a port town where most travelers stopover for a short while, the best place to stay are found more often by the bay, beachfront or otherwise close to the port. This makes it exclusive and accessible to jump on a fast boat whenever they desire. However, there are other nearby areas such as Candidasa and Manggis that accommodate visitors seeking shelter for one night before traveling to other islands or other places along the east coast of Bali.
Accommodation
Beachfront hotels and dive resorts are found close by the port harbor as visitors would check in for an early morning boat ride, but also accommodates divers for those interested in an underwater experience. Groups looking to travel across islands would find their perfect place to stay in the available private villas and grand vacation rentals within the area. A comfort stopover, Padangbai provides a relaxing break in between island hopping.
Padangbai Accommodation
Culinary
As a transit point, a lot of travelers pass through the main harbor. Padangbai has beachfront cafes and hotel restaurants around that serve Western and Asian cuisine, bars that offer an ocean view, and Warungs for those looking for a quick bite on their way to catch a ferry. Although there aren’t as many selections as other popular areas, the options are certainly not limited.
Nightlife
Nothing fancy or trendy in this port town but Padangbai offers up a laid back scene for a quiet night by the beach. The reggae bars are frequented by locals and have a humble, lowkey atmosphere for chill drinks and live music. As the harbor’s last ferry is in the afternoon, the town gets a bit slow and quiet pretty early in the night.
Beaches
Padangbai Beach is the main beach where operators and local boatmen offer an experience out in the waters and finding the best stops to snorkel. Seeing how calm and shallow the waters are, it’s really the best place for families and snorkel enthusiasts to spend the day at the beach. Bias Tugel Beach is a secluded beach, a stretch of soft sand and crystal clear blue waters, a definite place to relax for a picnic and cold beer in hand.
Diving
There are a number of diving sites on a couple of small islands just a few minutes away from the main beach. Most beginners can take diving courses here, see healthy and protected reefs and rich marine life. Some are challenging sites only for experienced divers who can navigate through rough waters and harsh currents. Blue Lagoon Beach is a secluded diving spot where you’ll find exotic marine life and secluded enough for a quiet time at the beach sunbathing or simply just swimming in shallow waters.
Sightseeing
Although visitors come to Padangbai to travel, its got a couple spots worth stopping for whether you’re exploring the east or after an island getaway. Silayukti Temple is a historical site known in East Bali, an 11th-century Hindu temple located on a hilltop that offers a viewpoint for sunrise and sunset. The temple anniversary is always a momentous occasion. There is also a salt farm nearby found in Kusamba Village, where they crystalize the salt on the black sand beach and filter it in their salt-making houses.
Transportation
Most travelers would find themselves on a scooter if they are intending to travel to other islands by boat, however the islands will either have undeveloped roads to bring cars over, or they will have to rent scooters on the island instead. Best practice for those exploring East Bali for an adventure is to rent a scooter when traveling along the coast, although a car is more advisable if traveling up from central Bali.