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Toddler visiting dreamland beach while being on a family vacation on Bali, Indonesia

Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Bali (With Tips, for Babies, Toddlers & Kids)

What are the best beaches in Bali for babies and toddlers? We’ve handpicked the top family-friendly beaches with calm water, soft sand, shade, and nearby cafés, all tested during our trips with two young kids.

What are the best family-friendly beaches in Bali?

Bali has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, but not all are ideal for families. From big waves to hard-to-reach coves, many are better left to surfers and adventurers. But if you know where to go, you’ll find peaceful, toddler-friendly beaches like Sanur, Mengiat, and Padang Padang that are perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.

Our Family Beach Adventures in Bali with Kids

Bali’s beaches often look like a dream: turquoise waters, soft sand, and a tropical vibe. And yes, many are stunning. But when you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, not every beach is as family-friendly as it seems on Instagram. After multiple trips to Bali with our two young kids, we explored beaches all over the island, from popular resort spots to quiet hidden gems. We quickly learned what really matters for a great family beach day: calm waves, shade, nearby food, easy access, and space to play.

In this guide, we’ll share our favorite family-friendly beaches in Bali, all based on real experiences, plus practical tips, a quick comparison table, and honest “Crew Tips” from the beach.

Want to plan your trip? Check out our 👉 detailed 2-week Bali itinerary that includes many of these beautiful beaches and family-friendly stops along the way. Looking for even better beaches and fewer crowds? Check out our 👉 Bali to Lombok family route for some hidden gems.

Table Of Contents

Our Bali Beach Top Picks for Families

Our top beach hotel in Bali with kids

Top Beach Hotel: Grand Hyatt
Beachfront resort, great pools for kids

Our kids' favorite tour in Bali: seeing dolphins in Lovina

Top Beach Tour: Dolphin Tour →
Early morning tour, amazing

Bali is a great place for a surf lesson, also for kids

Top Beach Activity: Surfing →
Beginner-friendly lessons for older kids

Arranging you airport transfer is the best option when traveling with kids

Airport Transfer: Klook
Central stay with family pools

Using an e-Sim in Bali is very much recommended, and can be used for ordering a taxi or food by Grab/Gojek

e-Sim: Airalo
Instant internet, 15% off via link

Our favorite overland tour In Krabi with kids

Bali Travel Journal for Kids →
Fun keepsake for beach memories

1. Mengiat Beach – Calm and Safe for Toddlers

Mengiat is an ideal spot for families seeking a calm and safe beach experience. With gentle, shallow waters and soft sandy shores, it’s perfect for babies and toddlers to play and relax, while parents can enjoy nearby facilities and a laid-back atmosphere. Traveling to Bali with a baby or toddler? Check out our complete guide to Bali with a Baby or Toddler — full of practical tips, packing advice, and our favorite kid-friendly spots.

📍Location

Mengiat Beach is located on Bali’s southeastern coast, in the heart of Nusa Dua. While much of this area is known for private resorts, Mengiat is a fully public beach — easy to access, stroller-friendly, and open to everyone.

🌊 Why it’s great for kids

With its soft sand and a wide, gentle shoreline, this beach is a hit with families. Depending on the tide, the water stays very shallow for quite a distance, giving toddlers and younger kids plenty of space to splash safely. The sea here is usually calm, making it great even for beginner swimmers or cautious parents. For older kids, there are plenty of watersport options available nearby — from banana boats to paddleboarding. It’s one of the best beaches in Bali for families with babies and toddlers thanks to its calm water and easy access.

🍴 Facilities & food options

Right on the beach, you’ll find a handful of casual cafés that offer food, drinks, and lounge chairs with umbrellas. The beach is equipped with restrooms and outdoor showers, and access is flat and smooth — even with a stroller.

💬 Our experience

Mengiat is one of our favorite family-friendly beaches in Bali for a relaxing, no-stress beach day. It rarely feels busy, and we love how easy it is to settle in while the kids play safely. We’ve spent entire days here — reading, napping, building sandcastles, and grabbing snacks between dips in the sea.

If you’re staying in Nusa Dua for a few days and want to explore more of South Bali without packing up beach gear every morning, a private South Bali tour is an easy option with kids. From Mengiat, you can explore Uluwatu’s beaches and viewpoints at your own pace, stop when the kids need a break, and skip places that feel too busy.

🏨 Where to stay near Mengiat Beach with kids

If you’re planning to stay near Mengiat Beach, Nusa Dua is one of the easiest and most family-friendly areas in Bali. These places work especially well with babies and toddlers:

  • MERUSAKA Nusa Dua – A family-friendly beachfront resort right next to Mengiat Beach, with spacious rooms, pools for kids, and direct beach access. Ideal for a relaxed stay with babies and toddlers.
  • Courtyard by Marriott Bali Nusa Dua Resort – A comfortable family-friendly resort close to Mengiat Beach, featuring large rooms, a kids pool, and a free shuttle to the beach. A great mid-range option for families with young children.

2. Canggu Beach – Fun for Older Kids

Canggu Beach is a popular destination on Bali’s southwest coast, especially known for its surf culture and vibrant beach clubs. While it may not be one of the most family-friendly beaches in Bali, it can still be a great option for families with older kids who love the waves and energy. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Canggu with kids.

📍Location

Canggu is located on Bali’s southwest coast, just north of Seminyak. It’s a trendy beach town known for its surf culture, beach clubs, and bustling cafés. The sand here is darker, and the area can get quite busy — especially in high season.

🌊 Why it’s great for kids

The waves at Canggu can be powerful, but for confident swimmers, playing in the surf can be a lot of fun. While it’s not the best beach for toddlers to go into the sea, many beach clubs like Atlas Beach Club offer kid-friendly zones and swimming pools, making it a more versatile option for families.

After days spent at the beach, our kids loved using a simple Bali travel journal to remember each adventure.

🍴 Facilities & food options

There are plenty of beach cafés and restaurants around, some even with playgrounds or play areas for kids. Facilities like bathrooms and showers are widely available, and most spots are stroller-accessible with a bit of care.

💬 Our experience

To be honest, Canggu isn’t our favorite beach for a family day out. It’s very popular and has a lively vibe, which might be a bit overwhelming with young children. That said, it’s still a decent option — we just tend to prefer some of the calmer options on this list for a more relaxed time.

For a short cultural outing, Tanah Lot Temple is an easy trip from Canggu. The walkways are manageable with kids, and visiting around low tide lets you explore the rocks and tidal pools nearby, which kids usually love.

Canggu is one of the best places in Bali for kids to try surfing for the first time. Several surf schools offer private or small-group lessons on sandy beaches with gentle waves, making it a fun and confidence-boosting activity for older kids.

🏨 Where to stay near Canggu Beach with kids

If you’re planning to stay in Canggu, check out these ideal options for kids:

  • Holiday Inn Resort Bali Canggu by IHG – Modern family-friendly hotel near the beach, with kids club, children’s pool, family rooms, and ocean-view rooftop pool.
  • Sunny Muse by Betterplace – Small boutique-style accommodation in Canggu, offering family rooms, a quiet pool, and easy access to cafés and the beach.

3. Padang Padang – Small but Stunning for Kids

Padang Padang is a hidden gem tucked between cliffs on the Bukit Peninsula. With its stunning scenery and cozy bay, it offers a mix of adventure and relaxation — perfect for families looking for a more unique beach day in Bali. Padang Padang is also featured in our 2-week Bali itinerary for families, making it a convenient stop if you’re following our suggested route.

📍Location

Padang Padang is a small beach accessed via steep stairs carved into the cliffs. It’s located on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula and is known for its clear water, soft sand, and lively atmosphere. Note: monkeys roam the area, so keep a close eye on your belongings!

🌊 Why it’s great for kids

This beach is ideal for toddlers and young children who enjoy shallow water and gentle waves. Because of the stairs, it’s best to carry little ones in a baby carrier or sling when going down. Beach umbrellas are available for shade, but it can get crowded, so arriving early is recommended.

🍴 Facilities & food options

There are a few small cafes and warungs nearby where you can get simple meals and drinks. The area around the beach is quiet, so it’s a nice spot for a peaceful lunch or snack after playing.

💬 Our experience

We enjoyed Padang Padang for its charm and calm atmosphere. It’s not too big, so it never feels overwhelming, and the natural surroundings make it a lovely place to spend a few hours with kids.

From Padang Padang, a private trip lets you explore several South Bali beaches with kids at your own pace.

🏨 Where to stay near Padang Padang Beach with kids

You can stay near Padang Padang and easily reach nearby beaches like Dreamland or Balangan. All these beaches are just a short drive apart, making it easy to explore multiple spots in one day with kids.

  • Balangan Beach Villa – Large villa, great for bigger families or groups; we got lucky with a last-minute booking. Fully equipped with all baby essentials.
  • Pondok Talavana – Nice affordable two bedroom villa with a small private pool

4. Kuta Beach – Busy but Baby-Friendly

Kuta Beach is Bali’s most iconic — and most hectic — stretch of sand. While it may not be everyone’s idea of a tropical paradise, it does offer a lot for families: easy access, tons of facilities, and endless energy. If you’re traveling with older kids who love to be where the action is, Kuta might surprise you. Want more fun things to do with your kids in Bali? Don’t miss our Top 10 Things to Do in Bali with Kids guide!

📍Location

Kuta is located on Bali’s west coast and is one of the island’s most famous and busiest beaches. The beach stretches along a long coastline and is often crowded but full of life and activity. Nearby is Beachwalk Mall, a popular spot for shopping and dining.

🌊 Why it’s great for kids

The waves at Kuta are usually stronger, making it fun for older kids who are confident swimmers and enjoy playing in the surf. It’s also an ideal place for surf lessons, not only for kids but also for parents who want to give it a try. For younger children, it’s less suitable due to the stronger waves, but there are still spots near the shore to play safely.

🍴 Facilities & food options

Along the beach and around Beachwalk Mall, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafés — some with playgrounds for kids. There’s a wide variety of food options, from local Balinese to international cuisine.

💬 Our experience

Certainly not the most beautiful beach in Bali, but Kuta is a lively place with lots going on. It’s not our top pick for younger children but can be great for families with older kids who like the surf and the busy vibe.

Kuta Beach is also close to Waterbom Bali, one of the best water parks in Asia and a guaranteed hit with kids. Our kids loved it so much we ended up going twice.

🏨 Where to stay near Kuta Beach with kids

Try to stay close to the beach so you can reach it without walking through busy streets. This makes Kuta beach days with kids much easier and more relaxed.

  • Jukung Villas Kuta – Quiet family-friendly villas near Kuta Beach, with private pool and easy beach access, avoiding the crowded main strip with kids.
  • Hard Rock Hotel Bali – Lively beachfront resort with kids club, pools, and family rooms, located near the beach.

5. Dream Beach (Nusa Lembongan) – Beautiful Views

Dream Beach on Nusa Lembongan with kids is one of the most scenic beaches in this guide. It’s better suited for families with older kids due to the strong waves, but the views — and the beach club — make it worth the trip.

📍Location

Dream Beach is a stunning beach on the southern coast of Nusa Lembongan. Known for its high waves and beautiful scenery, it’s a must-visit spot if you’re on the island.

🌊 Why it’s great for kids

While the waves here are quite strong, older kids who love to play in the surf will really enjoy this beach. It’s also great just to watch the waves crash from the shore or from the nearby beach club.

🍴 Facilities & food options

Right on Dream Beach you’ll find Dream Beach Huts, a popular beach club where you can relax by the pool, enjoy good food and drinks, and take in spectacular views of the beach below. It’s the perfect place to chill and keep an eye on the kids playing in the waves. Dream Beach Huts is also a lovely place to stay if you want to spend a few days on Nusa Lembongan — check availability here.

💬 Our experience

Dream Beach is one of the most beautiful spots on Nusa Lembongan, with a great vibe and stunning views. It’s a perfect mix of relaxation and fun for families with older kids who like the ocean waves.

From Dream Beach, snorkeling with manta rays is one of the most unforgettable experiences for families visiting Nusa Lembongan.

🏨 Where to stay near Dreambeach with kids

Nusa Lembongan is small, so you can stay anywhere on the island and easily reach Dream Beach for a day of sun and waves.

  • Ohana’s Beachfront Resort & Beach Club – Trendy beach resort with a pool, playground, and sunset vibes — great for families.
  • Kakiang Guesthouse – Affordable stay with super friendly hosts, one of our favorite hidden gems!
  • Dreambeach Huts – Beachfront resort with family-friendly villas, pool, and restaurant, just steps from Dream Beach. Perfect for kids and adults to enjoy sun, waves, and relaxation.

6. Dreamland Beach – Beautiful and Ideal for older kids

Spacious, scenic, and perfect for wave-loving kids, but not ideal for toddlers.

📍Location

Dreamland Beach is located on the Bukit Peninsula, not far from Uluwatu. It’s easily accessible by car or scooter, with a short walk down from the parking area. Despite its popularity, it still feels somewhat hidden compared to the busier tourist beaches.

🌊 Why it’s great for kids

Dreamland is one of our favorite beaches in Bali — it’s beautiful, spacious, and has a relaxed vibe. However, the waves here can get pretty strong, so it’s not ideal for toddlers or very young kids to swim. That said, older kids who are strong swimmers will love playing in the surf or boogie boarding in the waves.

🍴 Facilities & food options

There’s a restaurant right on the beach where you can grab lunch or a drink, and they offer beach loungers and umbrellas for rent. Toilets and showers are available as well, and the beach is relatively easy to reach compared to some other Bukit beaches with long staircases.

💬 Our experience

This beach really has it all for us: stunning views, space to relax, and a perfect place to spend the afternoon while the kids play in the sand or waves (if they’re confident swimmers). It’s also less chaotic than places like Kuta or Canggu.

From Dreamland, it’s easy to visit Uluwatu Temple and the Kecak fire dance, though the show can feel quite busy for younger children.

🏨 Where to stay near Dreamland Beach with kids

There aren’t many accommodations directly at Dreamland, but you can stay nearby at Bingin or Balangan Beach. All these beaches are a short drive apart, perfect for families exploring Bali with kids.

  • 7Seas Bingin – Cozy family-friendly villas near Bingin Beach, with pool, spacious rooms, and easy access to the beach for kids and adults alike.
  • Samastiti Bingin – Modern beachfront resort with family rooms, a small pool, and stunning cliff views, just minutes from Bingin and Dreamland beaches.
  • La Reserva Villas Bali – Private villas with pools, kid-friendly facilities, and short drives to Dreamland and Balangan Beach, ideal for families seeking comfort and privacy.

7. More Family-Friendly Beaches in Bali to Explore

While the beaches above are our top picks, Bali has many more sandy spots worth considering depending on your kids’ ages and your travel style.

Jimbaran Bay – Calm, Long Beach for Families

Jimbaran Bay offers a long, calm shoreline with plenty of seafood restaurants right on the sand. Great for sunset dinners with kids and gentle strolls along the beach.

Where to stay near Jimbaran Bay with kids:

Sanur Beach with Kids – Easy Stroller Walks & Shallow Water

Favored by families with babies and toddlers, Sanur has calm, shallow water, a long beachfront path, and plenty of cafés. Comfort and ease make it ideal for stress-free beach days.

Sanur is perfect for a family-friendly e-bike tour along the coast and through local neighborhoods.

Where to stay near Sanur Beach with kids:

Seminyak Beach – Trendy Fun for Older Kids


Seminyak is lively and fun for families with older kids who enjoy boogie boarding, beach clubs, and dining options nearby. The waves are stronger, so it’s less ideal for toddlers.

Where to stay near Seminyak Beach with kids:

Blue Lagoon (Padangbai) – Snorkeling & Scenic Cove

A small, picturesque bay with turquoise water and a reef just offshore. Best for families with older kids who enjoy snorkeling; less suitable for toddlers due to rocks and waves. Consider staying near Amed, it’s really beautiful and not too far from Blue Lagoon for kids.

Where to stay near Blue Lagoon with kids:

These might not be in every guide to family-friendly beaches in Bali, but they’re great additions depending on your kids’ ages and your travel style. Each of these has its pros and cons, and they might suit your family’s needs depending on your travel style. We’ve included them here so you can explore your options and create the beach day (or week!) that suits you best.

Family-Friendly Beaches in Bali: Comparison Table

Below is an overview table of family-friendly beaches in Bali, based on our real experiences. Feel free to scroll horizontally to see all the details.

Beach Baby Toddler Access Facilities Food Shade Waves Beauty Summary
Mengiat (Nusa Dua) 🟢 Great 🟢 Great 🟢 Easy 🟢 Good 🟡 Beach Café 🟢 Plenty of Sunbeds 🌊 Calm ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Great for kids of all ages, gentle waves but enough to do
Canggu 🔴 Not Ideal 🟡 Okay 🟡 Okay 🟡 Moderate 🟢 Many options 🟢 Plenty of Sunbeds 🌊🌊🌊 Strong ⭐️⭐️ Fun for parents, beach clubs offer some kid-friendly corners, but waves can be strong
Padang Padang 🟢 Good 🟢 Good 🔴 Steep Walk 🔴 Minimal 🔴 Small vendors 🟡 Limited Sunbeds 🌊 Calm ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Beautiful and peaceful (in the morning), but access involves stairs – might be tricky
Dream Beach 🔴 Not Ideal 🔴 Not Ideal 🟡 Some stairs 🟢 Good (Beach club) 🟢 Beach Club 🔴 No shade 🌊🌊🌊🌊 Rough ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stunning but not baby-friendly. Waves can be strong – better to enjoy from a beach club
Kuta 🟡 Okay 🟡 Okay 🟢 Easy 🟢 Good 🟢 Many Options 🟢 Plenty of Sunbeds 🌊🌊🌊 Strong ⭐️⭐️ Busy and touristy, but perfect for older kids who want to try surfing lessons
Dreamland 🟡 Okay 🟡 Okay 🟡 Short Walk 🟢 Good 🟢 Restaurant 🟢 Plenty of Sunbeds 🌊🌊🌊 Strong ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Gorgeous wide beach, but be cautious – waves can get powerful
Permuteran 🟢 Good 🟢 Good 🟢 Easy 🟡 Moderate 🟡 Mainly Local 🟡 Limited Sunbeds 🌊 Calm ⭐️ Not the prettiest beach, but calm waters and good snorkeling options. Very quiet
Seminyak 🟡 Okay 🟡 Okay 🟢 Easy 🟢 Good 🟢 Many Options 🟢 Plenty of Sunbeds 🌊🌊🌊 Strong ⭐️⭐️ Similar to Kuta, but a bit trendier. Great for beach cafés and sunsets
Blue Lagoon 🟢 Good 🟢 Good 🟡 Short walk 🔴 Limited 🔴 Limited 🔴 No shade 🌊 Calm ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Tiny and peaceful cove with calm water. Good for snorkeling with older kids
Sunset Seminyak beach Bali with kids

8. Beach Packing List for Families

Planning a stress-free beach day with babies and toddlers? Having the right gear can make all the difference. From safe swim aids to shade shelters, here’s our essential packing list to keep little ones happy, protected, and entertained on Bali’s family-friendly beaches. For a complete guide to packing for your Bali trip, don’t miss our full 👉 Bali Packing List for Families.

  • Swim ring, floaties, or puddle jumper – Safe, age-appropriate swim aids for pool and ocean play.
  • Inflatable baby pool – Perfect for villas or beaches without toddler-friendly shallow water; check out 👉 this one
  • Sand toys & buckets – Small, 👉 foldable sets to keep kids entertained at the beach.
  • Quick-dry towels – Lightweight towels that dry fast and pack easily; check out these 👉 quick-dry towels
  • Dry bag – To keep important items dry during wild boat rides or trips to waterfalls. We use a small dry bag like 👉 this one.
  • Soft fabric water shoes – Ideal for hot sand and slippery pool areas. We’re big fans of 👉 Slipstop water shoes, but an alternative is 👉 Bigib
  • Sturdy water shoes with a firm sole – Perfect for beaches with sharp coral (hello Gilis!) or waterfall hikes. Check out 👉 these options
  • Pop-up beach tent or UV shelter (optional) – Creates instant shade and a safe nap spot.
Inflatable pool for the beach in Bali

Final Thoughts + More Bali with Kids Guides

Whether you’re after calm toddler-safe shores or fun waves for older kids, these kid-friendly beaches in Bali are perfect for a relaxed day in the sun.We hope this guide helps you plan some amazing beach days with your kids in Bali — whether you’re looking for calm toddler-friendly waters or fun waves for adventurous older kids.

☀️ Want more inspiration? Don’t miss these related blogs:

📌 Follow us on Pinterest for even more family travel ideas & save your favorite Bali tips!
📸 And join our adventures on Instagram — where we share daily travel moments, honest tips, and behind-the-scenes fun!

Happy beach days! 🐚
– The Little Passport Crew

FAQ: Family-Friendly Beaches in Bali

What are the best beaches in Bali for babies and toddlers?

The best beaches for babies and toddlers are Mengiat Beach and other beaches in Nusa Dua, as well as Sanur Beach. These beaches have calm, shallow waters, plenty of shade, easy access, and family-friendly facilities like restaurants and clean toilets. Perfect for a stress-free beach day with little ones.

Which beaches in Bali are good for kids learning to surf?

For beginner surfers (especially kids), head to:

Dreamland Beach – more suited to older kids and teens with some experience, as the waves can get strong
Kuta Beach – gentle, consistent waves and many surf schools
Seminyak Beach – similar to Kuta but slightly more upscale

What is the most beautiful beach in Bali?

Many families (including us!) love Dreamland Beach for its wide stretch of golden sand, cliffs, and views. It’s spacious and stunning — but be cautious with the waves, which can be strong. Still, there’s plenty of space at the shoreline for playing in the sand and splashing.

Are there beach clubs in Bali that are good for kids?

Yes! Some beach clubs are great for families. Many beach clubs offer food, shade, and clean restrooms — ideal for a beach day with kids. Atlas Beach Fest in Canggu has a special kids area right by the beach. Another option would be Dream Beach Huts in Nusa Lembongan – has a pool, restaurant, and gorgeous view of the beach.

Where can we find the best food by the beach in Bali?

For great beachside dining, try:
Jimbaran Bay – famous for seafood dinners on the sand at sunset
Canggu, Seminyak, and Kuta – plenty of beach cafés and trendy restaurants
Beach clubs – often serve great food, cocktails, and kids menus

Should I be worried about waves and currents in Bali?

Yes, always stay aware of waves and currents in Bali. Many beaches, especially on the west coast and south of the island, can have strong surf and undertows. Never leave kids unattended, and stick to beaches known for calm waters if you have toddlers.

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