Padang Padang Beach

Padang Padang is the little sandy cove made famous by the film Eat Pray Love. It is reached by a staircase that winds down from the Labuan Sait road bridge and squeezes through a narrow cleft in the limestone, opening onto a short beach framed by rock outcrops. The entrance is managed by the local village, which collects a small entry fee at the top of the steps.

On the inside of the bay the water can be calm enough for a swim at mid to high tide, while the left-hand reef break off the point is one of the most famous waves in Bali and is strictly for experienced surfers when it is working. A short walk along the rocks leads to the quieter Baby Padang beach for beginners and bodyboarders.

Go early in the morning to beat the tour groups, which peak around midday and late afternoon. There are warungs selling drinks and snacks, and sunbeds for hire. Scooter and car parking is at the top beside the road; watch for monkeys around the stairs.