GUNUNG PAYUNG BEACH
GUNUNG PAYUNG BEACH
Gunung Payung Beach, located on the southern coast of Bali, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist destinations. This remote and peaceful spot offers stunning views of the seascape and is named after the Pura Dhang Kahyangan Gunung Payung, a Balinese Hindu temple complex that sits atop a nearby cliff. The white sandy beach is located in the Kutuh village of South Kuta District, Badung district and is situated in close proximity to Pandawa beach, another popular tourist attraction in the South Badung area.
Experience the thrill of adventure and natural beauty as you make your way to Gunung Payung Beach, located just a half-hour drive away from Nusa Dua. As you travel down the main Jalan Gunung Payung road, you'll be surrounded by the lush greens of the 18-hole Bukit Pandawa Golf Club and the rugged limestone terrain. Keep an eye out for grey long-tailed macaques, which are known to be shyer than those found in the Uluwatu Monkey Forest.
This coastal area relies on the participation of visitors in keeping it clean, so be sure to do your part by not littering. The entrance fee for Gunung Payung beach attraction is IDR 4,000 per person, and parking for two-wheeled vehicles is IDR 2,000 and for cars IDR 5,000. The beach is managed by the Kutuh traditional village, as is the case with Pandawa beach. In the parking area near the Gunung Payung temple, you'll find ample parking, toilets, and food and beverage stalls.
As you approach the cliff edge after visiting the temple, you'll be greeted by breathtaking ocean views and the soothing sounds of waves crashing below. The beach can only be accessed by a steep flight of stairs, around 300 in total, so it's recommended for fit and determined visitors. Once you reach the beach, you'll find clear waters with deep green patches, which are the growing grounds for local seaweed farmers. The sand is deep and coarse, and the waters are calm, making it perfect for snorkeling.
For those seeking an even greater thrill, head to the hill
of Kutuh village east of Gunung Payung temple, where you can try your hand at
paragliding. Soar above the coast of Gunung Payung with the help of experienced
parachute pilots. With so many unique and exciting experiences to be had,
Gunung Payung Beach is a must-visit destination for any adventure-seeker.
Discovering the secluded Gunung Payung Beach requires a bit
of effort, but the reward is an untouched paradise free from vendors. Make sure
to pack your own water and snacks to enjoy while basking in the natural beauty
of the surroundings. The calm waters, protected by natural reef barriers, are
perfect for swimming, but be cautious of sea urchins and high tide conditions
as there are no lifeguards on duty.
