Best Sunrise Locations in Bali

This guide gives an overview of the 10 best sunrise locations in Bali and explains what makes each one distinct. 

You will find a unique sunrise experience for every spot alongside its location, distance from a couple of prominent tourist spots, and a tip to plan your visit. 

By the end of this guide, you can pick the sunrise spot that best matches your travel style, time, and comfort. 

If you have tried all of Bali’s top sunset locations, it’s time to see Bali in a different light – at the glow of dawn, when Bali feels reborn.

Valley of the Kings Ridge at Viceroy Bali

Location: Ubud. Overlooks the Petanu River Valley.

Why Visit:

• From Viceroy Bali, you get stunning views of the Valley of the Kings below – lush jungle and Ubud’s mountain. This view is unique to this spot. 
• At sunrise, soft light filters across the jungle canopy and mist lingers in the valley. You hear forest sounds, the river below, and morning birdsong.
• The ridge is private. You watch the sunrise without crowds.
• Unlike crowded or strenuous sunrise spots, here you experience sunrise in a relaxed and accessible way, directly from the resort grounds.

Tip: Carry a light shawl or jacket as mornings on the ridge can feel cool before the sun rises.

Batu Bolong Beach

Location: Canggu, South Bali. Around 20–30 minutes from Seminyak, 1.5–2 hours from Ubud.

Why Visit:

• The beach faces west. You will not see the sun rise from the horizon. The morning sky glows instead and reflects off the water. This reflection gives soft light for photos.

• Early hours are calm, with gentle, rolling waves. Surfers paddle out at this time.

• The long stretch of sand is good for a quiet jog or walk.

• Batu Bolong Temple, on a rock outcrop, stands out against the glowing sky.

Tip: Come early if you want the beach to yourself before the surf schools and crowds arrive.

Mount Agung 

Location: Karangasem Regency, East Bali. Around 1.5 hours from Ubud and 2-2.5 hours from Seminyak.

Why Visit:

• You stand on Bali’s highest point. At sunrise, you see the first light spilling over the whole island below. This panoramic view of Bali is unique to Mount Agung. The first light breaking at the summit feels dramatic and earned.
• Fewer people attempt this climb. So, the sunrise often feels quiet and almost private at the summit.
• The trail passes small villages before the climb, adding a glimpse of Balinese life to the journey.

Tip: Start before midnight. Attempt this hike only with an experienced guide.

Sanur Beach

Location: East of Denpasar. Around 45–60 minutes from Ubud and 30–40 minutes from Seminyak.

Why Visit:

• You get a clear view of the sun rising from the horizon. 
• Sanur’s water is shallow and calm at sunrise. It reflects the sky. Your photos capture the horizon and its mirror image.
• At dawn, most boats are anchored or returning near the shoreline. Fishermen prepare their nets as part of the morning routine. The promenade becomes a community scene with boats in the backdrop.

Tip: Head to the cafés along the Sanur promenade. Many open early for coffee and breakfast after sunrise.

Amed Beach

Location: East Bali. Around 2.5–3 hours from Ubud, 3–3.5 hours from Seminyak.

Why Visit:

• The beach’s black volcanic sand creates a striking contrast with the sunrise light. Photos here look different from Bali’s white-sand beaches.
• Boats head out to sea at first light. The sunrise is tied to the fishermen’s departure. The sight feels active and village-centric.
• When the water is calm and clear, you can spot coral shallows close to shore. This detail is not found along every coast in Bali.

Tip: For the best view, head to the Lahangan Sweet Viewpoint. It offers panoramic views of Mount Agung, the sunrise, and the sea.

Mount Batur 

Location: Kintamani, Bangli Regency. Around 2 hours from Ubud and 2.5–3 hours from Seminyak.

Why Visit:

• You stand above Lake Batur with Mount Agung in the background. This water and volcano backdrop is photogenic and unique to this summit.
  
• You may also see Mount Abang nearby and Mount Rinjani on Lombok. These bonus views are rewarding.
  
• The sky turns orange, pink, and purple as the sun peeps over the mountains.
  
• Local guides commonly prepare eggs and coffee for tourists using the volcano’s natural, clean, and safe steam vents. 

Tip: Start from Ubud around 2–3 AM to reach the summit in time.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Location: Ubud. Around 20–30 minutes north of central Ubud by car or bike.

Why Visit:

• The low and golden morning light, along with the drifting mist, does not make the layers glaringly bright green. Instead, the terraces appear layered. It is one of the best times for photos of the terraces.
• At sunrise, the paths are almost empty. You can explore the terraces in silence before tour buses arrive.
• At sunrise, farmers begin work in the terraces. Watching the fields come alive with light and activity connects the scenery to daily life.

Tip: Wear good shoes because the paths can be wet with morning dew. 

Nusa Dua Beach

Location: South Bali. Around 1.5–2 hours from Ubud, 45–60 minutes from Seminyak.

Why Visit:

• White sand and calm water frame the sunrise. The beach gets a more polished feel than Bali’s surf beaches. You can enjoy the sunrise right at the shoreline.
• The sunrise feels private and safe, without crowds or beach hawkers, as the beach is resort-front and maintained.
• Joggers pass by, fishermen work in the distance, and the long beach is open for a quiet walk.

Tip: Many beachfront resorts open early for breakfast. You can have coffee or a light meal soon after sunrise.

Candidasa Beach

Location: East Bali. Around 1.5–2 hours from both Ubud and Seminyak.

Why Visit:

• The Candi Dasa Lagoon near the beach is covered in pink and fuchsia lotuses at dawn. Their petals stand out against the still water, creating a colourful sight. It is a quiet spot for photos or a short walk.
• Mount Agung is visible in the background on clear days.
• The beach suits travellers who prefer a slower start to the day.
• The water here is calm. You can sit close to the shoreline.
  

Tip: Candidasa Temple, atop a hill opposite the lagoon, offers a clear viewpoint of the lagoon and the coast

Lempuyang Temple

Location: East Bali, Karangasem Regency. Around 2 hours from Ubud and 2.5 to 3 hours from Seminyak.

Why Visit:

• The split gateway known as the Gates of Heaven frames Mount Agung in the distance. At sunrise, the mountain glows with the first light between the gates.
• At sunrise, the air is clearer than later in the day. Mount Agung is easier to see. The volcano is Bali’s highest and most sacred. Its outline between the gates is a dramatic sight.
• The quiet at dawn makes the temple atmosphere more solemn than later, when it gets crowded.

Tip: Please wear a sarong and dress respectfully.

Reserve Your Private Luxury Stay at Viceroy Bali

You can reach all of the above-mentioned sunrise spots from Viceroy Bali.

This luxury resort ensures unobstructed jungle and valley views. Each of its 40 Ubud villas features a heated infinity pool, offering utmost luxury and privacy.

The resort’s warm hospitality, refined dining, and Balinese character make it stand out. Book your stay at Viceroy Bali.