Think of Bali and images of palm fringed beaches spring to mind.  Bali’s beaches are all undeniably beautiful.  Those picture-postcard silver or white tropical beaches do exist, but there’s also black volcanic sand beaches as well as deep blue lagoons and sleepy coves..

Sanur beach is about a five – ten minute drive from the capital Denpasar and is the definitive palm lined white sandy beach of tropical dreams. Only a stone’s thrown from that idyllic seafront though you’ll also find ancient temples standing as solemn and proud today as they have done for centuries. The beaches of Kuta and Legian stretch along the south western side of Bali. Much livelier and far more “tourist” than Sanur, Kuta offers shops, pubs and bars and a host of other facilities.

If you like what Kuta offers, but would prefer something less crowded, then try Lovina Beach in the northern tip of the island.  It’s well known for spectacular sunsets, snorkelling, and diving as well as its night life and is the best place to see dolphin. Directly south of the airport, on the way from Denpasar is Nusa Dua, a new luxurious resort area where the world’s most sumptuous hotels gracefully integrate into the beautiful white beaches. Crystal clear water provides excellent snorkelling and diving and the waves on the northern and the southern part of Nusa Dua make for great surfing.