If what you are after is small town rustic charm, skip Kuta and Seminyak. You won’t find it amidst the throbbing pulse and cosmopolitan vibe of Seminyak‘s famous nightlife. A mere 2 hours away from Seminyak, however, you enter into a whole different world. Laid back, slow paced, relaxed, and restful, it is the perfect place to be if you want to enjoy the beach, the surf, and simply… chill out.
The best way to get there would definitely be to hire a driver or hail a taxi, and it should cost you about US$40-45. You know you’ve reach Balian when you are greeted by the view of the Balian beach, with its sparkling black sand frontage.
If you worry that small village setting equals dilapidated accommodation options, fret not. From backpacker hostels to luxurious beachfront villas, Balian can cater to guests from all walks of life, and promise the perfect beach holiday. One such beach front villa is Villa Tao, which offers spectacular panoramic views of the ocean.
There is much to enjoy and plenty to do in Balian. Don’t expect the bustle and all-night-long happenings of Seminyak, but Balian offers its own brand of fun!
1. Surfing 
Balian is paradise for surfers, and is touted as an amazing surf spot in Bali. Balian beach is located at the mouth of a river, and provides for some great and consistent A-frame waves. Compared to other popular beaches like in Seminyak, the Balian beach is much less crowded, and thus offers avid surfers the chance to get in a few more waves.
However, do be wary of surfing in murky conditions, which can occur after heavy rain pushes river sediments into the water. Bull sharks may be feeding.
2. Yoga
The contemplative settings of Balian village lends itself favorably to the practice of Yoga in Balian. Quiet, meditative surroundings, the embrace of nature, and the rhythmic accompaniment of the waves offer Yogis just the right setting for the practice of yoga. Some popular Yoga schools in Balian would be the Shankari’s Bali Retreat and Pondok Pitaya.
3. Strolling by the beach
The simplest of activities sometimes becomes overlooked in our quest to keep busy. What better way to spend quality time with family, friends or a lover than to stroll along the beautiful black sand beach. If you favor the whimsical twilight appeal of the coast, waking up early to catch the sunrise together, or watching the sunset beyond the horizons can be a moment that will be etched into your memory for a lifetime.
4. Picnic at the beach
For families looking to have a quiet getaway with the kids in tow, Balian can be an amazing setting. The absence of tourist throngs means you don’t have to worry about your children getting lost in the crowds of people. Families can enjoy picnics together on the soft sand, whilst feeling free to let children run loose. Sandcastle building, splashing in the waves, seashell picking- the standard fare of wonderful day outs at the beach can all be achieved at Balian.
5. Check out some local Warungs and little cafes
Enjoy good old fashioned western comfort food, or local specialties in friendly, homely settings. There are also local Warungs operating by the beach, and you can enjoy your meal with a great view!
