The Best Things to Do in Bali, the Island of the Gods | Condé Nast Traveler

"On the southern tip of the Bukit Peninsula, Pantai Melasti is a 1.2-mile stretch of Balinese coastline that feels like a postcard-perfect paradise, yet is remarkably easy to reach. Its soft white sand backs onto dramatic limestone cliffs, and its waters offer calm, glass-clear shallows and a sandy bottom ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Unlike many beaches in Uluwatu, you don’t have to trek down (and back up) a steep set of stairs to reach the shore. Instead, a smooth, scenic drive with views of the Indian Ocean brings you directly to a parking lot just a few feet from the sand. Once you arrive, you’ll find ample amenities like changerooms, showers, bathrooms, beach clubs with sun loungers, and warungs (local restaurants). All these conveniences make Melasti popular with local families and day-trippers, so mornings or off-peak times are best if you want a more serene experience. Still, thanks to its long curve of sand, you can usually find a pocket of calm." - Julia Eskins